Ultrasound photo sent… 70 million won additional demand

Regarding the 'pregnancy extortion case' involving the national football team captain Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur), a current lawyer examined the legal issues and the validity of the contested 'letter of agreement'.

On the 16th, lawyer Lim Joo-hye appeared on YTN's 'News NOW' and was asked, "When the woman in her 20s who threatened Son Heung-min received 300 million won, is the letter of agreement stating that she would not inform anyone about this valid in court?"

Lawyer Lim stated, "The legal validity of the content of the letter of agreement can vary depending on the circumstances," adding, "However, the mere existence of this letter itself could serve as strong evidence that there was some form of threat or extortion."

He continued, "If she received a large sum of 300 million won, there would likely be some record of that transaction," and indicated that while it is difficult to confirm the specific details of the letter, it could be seen as having a contractual nature to some extent.

He further stated, "If the letter includes details about the payment and a clause not to disclose the related information to the media, it could likely be utilized as evidence in proving the criminal facts."

The incident dates back to June of last year. A woman in her 20s, who had a past romantic relationship with Son Heung-min, sent ultrasound pictures to Son Heung-min's party, claiming she was "pregnant" and threatened to reveal this information to the media. Ultimately, she received 300 million won from Son Heung-min's side.

Afterward, the woman started a relationship with a man in his 40s, who contacted Son Heung-min’s party in March of this year, demanding an additional 70 million won for the same issue. Son Heung-min’s side did not comply with their repeated demands and has taken legal action.

On the 7th, the Gangnam Police in Seoul received a complaint from Son Heung-min’s side and arrested woman A and man B on the 14th. On the 15th, Son Heung-min's agency, Son and Football Limited, stated, "We will respond strongly to those who have made extortion threats with clear false information," and asserted that "Son Heung-min is a clear victim of this incident."

On the 17th, Chief Judge Yoon Won-muk of the Seoul Central District Court issued arrest warrants for A and B, who are facing extortion charges. Judge Yoon determined there was a risk of evidence destruction and flight.

Image source: News1, material photo for understanding the article / gettyimagesbank