Johnny Somali indicted in South Korea for causing commotion

YouTuber and Twitch streamer Johnny Somali was formally indicted without detention by Seoul prosecutors on Nov 12 for “causing a commotion” at a convenience store.

Authorities have placed a travel restriction on the 24-year-old, preventing him from leaving South Korea while the case proceeds. A spokesperson for the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office told AFP, "He was indicted on Monday without detention for creating a commotion at a convenience store in October."

Somali, whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael, allegedly confronted a store employee on Oct 17 after she advised him against drinking alcohol on the premises. Additionally, he reportedly made sexist remarks during the altercation.

Johnny Somali, known for controversial content, has drawn widespread criticism in South Korea for various stunts, including a recent incident where he kissed and danced near a memorial statue for Korean "comfort women"—victims of wartime sexual slavery by Japan. 

Somali’s actions at Seoul’s Changdong History and Culture Park sparked backlash after being posted in a since-deleted video on his channel.

Somali issued a video apology, claiming ignorance of the statue's significance; however, local media questioned his sincerity. Despite the indictment and negative attention, Somali posted a new video on Instagram, waving his passport and making an offensive gesture, captioned, “Free Johnny.”