The woman who accused actress Song Ha-yoon of school bullying has broken her silence from the United States, denying claims that she is evading the police investigation and asserting that Song's past school transfer was disciplinary in nature.
On July 3, the accuser—identified only as "A"—released a lengthy online statement refuting recent claims made by Song's legal team, who had last week announced that they had filed a criminal complaint against A for defamation and obstruction of business.
"I am currently a U.S. citizen, lawfully residing overseas," A wrote. "Returning to Korea to participate in the investigation would require me to cover all airfare, lodging, and living expenses. Forcing a victim to bear that burden is excessive and unreasonable."
Song Ha-yoon's agency had earlier stated that A refused to cooperate with South Korean police and was listed as a wanted individual. In response, A said,
"The police have temporarily suspended the investigation and have not issued any coercive measures or travel restrictions. I have not been officially notified of any wanted status."
The statement also alleges that Song's transfer from Banpo Middle School to Gujeong Middle School was not a voluntary decision.
"Those schools fall under the same district. A transfer between them would only be permitted under disciplinary circumstances, such as a school violence ruling," A wrote. "This supports the claim that Song Ha-yoon's transfer was forced."
In April 2023, A accused Song of committing physical abuse during their school years.
Song's legal team promptly denied the allegations and submitted testimony from former classmates and a homeroom teacher attesting to her character.
They have since filed a defamation complaint under South Korea's Information and Communications Network Act.
A now says she is considering filing a countersuit. "I never fabricated, manipulated, or distorted the facts.
What I disclosed is based on actual incidents of violence," she said, referencing coverage by JTBC's investigative show Crime Chief, which aired a multi-part segment on the case earlier this year.
She added, "My statements were made within the bounds of constitutionally protected freedom of expression and the legitimate exercise of my right to defense."
Song Ha-yoon's side has maintained that the accusations are false and damaging.
"It's extremely difficult to prove something that never happened," her attorneys said in a statement last week.
"Song Ha-yoon has endured severe psychological distress over the past year but chose to wait for the investigation results rather than respond prematurely."
Song, whose contract with her former agency has expired, is reportedly preparing for a career comeback under new management.
The case has sparked renewed public debate over the treatment of school bullying allegations in South Korea's entertainment industry, where similar accusations have led to cast removals, hiatuses, and halted projects.
