JTBC has filed a criminal complaint against PD Jang Si-won and Studio C1. On the 29th, JTBC announced, "Studio C1 has continued to engage in copyright infringement activities, such as holding live games resembling 'Choi Kang Baseball'." The broadcaster submitted the complaint to the investigative agency on the 28th, citing violations of copyright law and trademark law, breach of trust, destruction of electronic records, and obstruction of business.

The copyright law allegations relate to Studio C1's production of 'Fireworks Baseball.' JTBC claims that this format is similar to its own 'Choi Kang Baseball' series, for which it holds intellectual property rights (IP). The production of the 'Winter Vacation of Kim Seong-keun', a spin-off program of 'Choi Kang Baseball', and its provision to other OTT platforms were also raised as issues. Unauthorized use and exposure related to trademarks were additionally included.

Allegations of breach of trust against PD Jang Si-won were also included, asserting that he unilaterally determined compensation for directors without a separate resolution from the shareholders' meeting, thereby obtaining financial benefits. The deletion of files related to 'Choi Kang Baseball' from JTBC's server by Studio C1 was also cited as a reason for the complaint, leading to allegations of destruction of electronic records and obstruction of business.

JTBC stated, "We will continue to take strong legal action against similar content that infringes on our intellectual property rights," and announced plans to file a criminal complaint against the broadcasting entity as well. JTBC and PD Jang Si-won's Studio C1 are experiencing disputes related to 'Choi Kang Baseball'. Tensions between the two sides escalated after the announcement of the cancellation of the 'Choi Kang Baseball' tryouts.

On the 31st of last month, JTBC cut off access to Studio C1's editing room server and issued an eviction notice. On the 2nd, they filed an injunction against copyright infringement, citing the continuation of filming. In response, Studio C1 held a live game. On the 27th, PD Jang Si-won held a match between the 'Fireworks Baseball' Fire Fighters and Dongguk University at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul.

Meanwhile, JTBC plans to launch a new season of 'Choi Kang Baseball' in September.

<Source: JTBC, Studio C1>