close
close

Johnny Somali faces assault and drug charges as South Korea's parliament monitors his actions

YouTube streamer Johnny Somali, known for his divisive actions abroad, faces two counts of assault and drug use in South Korea.

The YouTuber's recent behavior has attracted widespread attention from the South Korean public and was even brought up in parliament. According to Yonhap News, a police official confirmed Somali's allegations and added: “We plan to investigate the related complaints.”

Somali, notorious for his controversial streaming content, recently caused an uproar during a broadcast on September 27 after he kissed South Korea's “Statue of Peace,” a monument honoring South Korean victims of Japanese wartime sex slavery. This incident sparked strong backlash from locals, with some citizens confronting him during his streams and calling for him to leave the country. His actions continued by causing public unrest at a supermarket, reportedly spilling ramen, and being removed from a train for making loud and inappropriate noises.

In addition to these incidents, Somali has become the subject of parliamentary debate. During a parliamentary session on October 30, a member questioned the legal consequences of Somali's actions and called for further action. In response, the chairman stated: “We are monitoring Johnny Somali.”

In an Oct. 29 livestream titled “Catch me if you can Korean NEETS,” Somali addressed his allegations and warned, “I will take you to court and sue you,” referring to other YouTubers who allegedly tracked his location.

Somali is currently staying in South Korea, contrary to speculation after he posted a photo at Incheon International Airport. Further updates on his trial are pending.