American YouTuber Denies Charges Related to 'Statue of Peace'
American YouTuber Johnny Somali (real name Ramsey Khalid Ismail) has been brought to trial for kissing the 'Statue of Peace' and causing a disturbance in a public place, denying some of the charges.
According to News1 on the 16th, Judge Park Ji-won of the Seoul Western District Court held the second trial date for Somali, who was indicted on charges of obstruction of business, violations of the Punishment of Minor Offenses Act, and the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes (distributing false videos).
On this day, the prosecution also provided additional details regarding a newly consolidated charge of obstruction of business and two charges of violating the Special Act on Sexual Violence Crimes.
According to the prosecution, Somali is accused of creating a disturbance while live streaming from Lotte World on September 30, 2024, disrupting operations of rides, as well as producing and distributing obscene videos that combine the faces of men and women on YouTube.
Controversial Actions and Court Attitude
Somali acknowledged that he obstructed the operations of Lotte World, but denied the charges of distributing false videos.
He disrupted operations at a convenience store in Mapo District, Seoul, by playing music and dancing on October 17 last year, and on the 12th of the same month, he approached passersby while carrying a bag of smelly fish in Mapo District. On the 23rd, he caused a disturbance by playing loud music on buses and subways, doing pull-ups, and dancing provocatively.
In particular, Somali sparked significant controversy for his inappropriate behavior when he kissed the Statue of Peace during a live broadcast on YouTube. During his first trial on March 7, he attempted to enter the courtroom wearing a red MAGA (Make America Great Again) cap, commonly associated with supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump, but was prevented from doing so due to regulations.
Inappropriate Actions Like Kissing the Statue of Peace
At the time, he sparked additional controversy by stating that he wore the MAGA hat because "I am an American citizen. And Korea is a vassal state of America."
In this trial, he entered the courtroom wearing the MAGA cap and sticking out his tongue in a "nyah nyah" pose.
Although he briefly removed the cap in court, he put it back on immediately after the hearing ended and remained silent when asked whether he still believes Korea is a vassal state of America and how he is covering his attorney fees.
A friend of Somali expressed concerns about the burden of legal fees through Telegram and requested donations.
Currently, Somali's departure from the country is reportedly prohibited.
Image Sources: News1, youtube 'legal mindset'
