South Korean YouTuber Caracula arrested for blackmailing Tzuyang

South Korean YouTuber Caracula, real name Lee Se-wook, arrested on charges of blackmailing fellow YouTuber Tzuyang.

South Korean YouTuber Caracula, whose real name is Lee Se-wook, has been arrested on charges of blackmailing fellow YouTuber Tzuyang. The arrest, which took place on August 2, 2024, has sparked significant public interest and discussion.

According to a report from the Suwon District Prosecutors’ Office, Caracula was apprehended on multiple charges, including blackmail. Senior Judge Song Baek-Hyun, who oversaw the interrogation, issued the arrest warrant, citing “a risk of destroying proof and fleeing.” Previously, Caracula was implicated in a racketeering case involving foot and mouth disease, where he allegedly conspired to extort 52 million won from Internet broadcaster BJ Suet.

Alongside Caracula, an arrest warrant for attorney Choi was requested but subsequently denied. Judge Song stated, “There is room for dispute over the establishment of the crime, there is little crisis about the destruction of proof, and it is hard to admit the reason for the need to arrest at this stage in light of housing and family relations.” Choi, who had worked as a lawyer for Tzuyang’s ex-boyfriend, faced accusations of blackmailing Tzuyang and collaborating with Caracula.

The case gained attention on July 25, when YouTuber Tzuyang filed a complaint with the Suwon District Prosecutors’ Office against Choi for racketeering and leaking business secrets. Tzuyang revealed, “I suffered from assault and pressure by my ex-boyfriend and was forced to work in a bar.” She also mentioned that Caracula and another YouTuber, “Jujakgambyulsa” (real name Kukjejin), were arrested by the police on July 26.

Tzuyang, whose real name is Park Jung-won, is a well-known South Korean YouTuber famous for her mukbang videos. Born on April 25, 1997, in Seoul, she has gained popularity for her engaging content, which includes eating large amounts of food and reviewing flavors. She has over 340 videos on her YouTube channel and has garnered a significant following.

The investigation into the case is ongoing, and further updates are expected