Actor Hwang Jung-min stalking case: prosecutor seeks 10 million won fine

A man accused of stalking South Korean actor Hwang Jung-min faced prosecutors' sentencing recommendation of 10 million won in fines and a completion order at a hearing on 11 August at Uijeongbu District Court's Goyang branch.

The prosecution alleged that after Hwang blocked the defendant in 2024, he contacted the actor and his son 518 times and repeatedly sent messages suggesting self-harm. The defendant also transmitted a will file, according to court testimony.

The defendant's legal team countered that the relationship was mutual, not one-sided stalking. They argued that Hwang initiated contact in some instances, including a 40-minute phone call after the defendant sent a check-in message, and that Hwang later shared schedules with him. The defence maintained that communications covered everyday matters, personal concerns and emotional support.

Regarding messages hinting at death, the defendant stated these were sent to express his distress and seek understanding, not to cause fear. He also claimed he used a Kakao Talk multi-profile at Hwang's suggestion to receive notifications in a specific format.

The defendant acknowledged some actions were wrong but insisted he was not a one-sided stalker. "I don't think I did everything right. There are things I should not have done," he said. "But being a person who chased one person for two years is a completely different matter."

Sentencing is scheduled for 8 September at 10 a.m.