In light of rising concerns over cyber wrecker YouTubers in South Korea, Kang Ha-neul, known for his role in Squid Game 2, has shared insights into his upcoming film, Streaming. During a recent interview with the South Korean publication Mydaily, Kang unveiled the intricacies of his character, Woo-sang, a content creator characterized by his arrogance and a strong thirst for attention.
“I tried to express a pretentious, excessive, and conceited person. I tried to model him after people that I think I don’t like. People who talk too much and only like to put on a show without substance, people who are full of lies and pretense. I tried to express the type of people that I really don’t want to get close to,”
he stated, emphasizing his aim to authentically portray individuals who prioritize superficiality over substance. By inhabiting the role of Woo-sang, Kang Ha-neul aspires not just to entertain audiences, but to foster critical reflection on the significant implications of online platforms.
“I hope people will see the production and realize that Woo-sang’s image is not right. However, when acting, I had to act with the thought that I was right. If a Cyber Wrecker like Woo-sang actually existed, I don’t think it would be good,”
Kang reflected, indicating that he hopes the film will illustrate the consequences of such behaviors. Streaming is not merely a thriller; it also serves as a commentary on the pervasive issue of cyberwreckers exploiting others for their gain.
“Of course, I don’t want to tell people what to think after watching our film. However, I think it would be meaningful if, after watching this film, people could have different thoughts at least once when watching the video,”
the actor concluded, reinforcing the film’s potential to evoke new perspectives among viewers.
An Overview of Streaming Featuring Kang Ha-neul
Streaming is set against the backdrop of the true crime genre, focusing on Woo Sang, an esteemed streamer recognized for his sharp criminal profiling skills and a significant online following. Kang Ha-neul embodies Woo-sang, who runs a channel that delves deeply into unresolved crime cases, attracting viewers with his detailed analyses and live investigations.
The narrative intensifies as Woo-sang takes on a forgotten serial murder case, determined to unveil the truth. He engages his audience in real-time by broadcasting his investigative journey. However, with each step closer to the solution, Woo-sang discovers that he is being watched by the actual perpetrator, who has been closely following his livestream.
This chilling thriller promises a gripping experience, merging the digital landscape with tangible peril as Woo-sang risks it all to uncover the murderer live on air.
Cyber Wrecker YouTubers Spark Controversy in South Korea Amid Blackmail Allegations
According to Mydaily, Kang Ha-neul’s film Streaming has reignited discussions regarding the growing menace posed by cyber wrecker YouTubers in South Korea. Recent incidents have amplified public concern, such as mukbang artist Tzuyang facing blackmail and the family of the late actress Kim Sae-ron taking legal actions against another YouTuber, underscoring the problematic practices permeating this space.
These controversial creators have recently attracted media attention for targeting individuals, particularly celebrities, using videos that disseminate unfounded rumors. Their content often exaggerates truths or presents unverified claims to draw in viewers and maximize profit.
A significant case highlighting this issue involved Tzuyang, a prominent mukbang YouTuber, who shared in an emotional livestream on July 11 her experiences of enduring years of abuse by her ex-boyfriend. Following her revelation, several cyber wrecker YouTubers approached her, seeking financial compensation in exchange for keeping her past private regarding her coerced employment at a hostess bar.
Among those involved were three infamous YouTubers: Caracula, GooJeYeok, and Jeon Gukjin.
The biting scrutiny aimed at cyber wreckers is highlighted by a recent survey conducted by the Korea Press Foundation, which indicated that 92% of 1,000 participants view cyber wreckers as a significant social issue. Many expressed discontent over the prioritization of profit at the expense of ethical standards.
The term “cyber wrecker”describes content creators who focus on provocative subjects, frequently fabricating or manipulating information to harvest engagement. This issue extends far beyond Tzuyang’s case.
In 2023, the controversial YouTube channel Sojang found itself embroiled in legal disputes after being accused of defaming notable celebrities, including IVE’s Jang Won-young. The channel, notorious for distributing unfounded claims about stars, ultimately faced shutdown following a lawsuit initiated by Starship Entertainment.
Public sentiment surrounding cyber wreckers is intricately connected to widespread distrust in the judicial system. A 2020 survey by Hankook Research revealed that 87% of respondents believed punishments for crimes were too lenient, with 66% lacking faith in court decisions.
This pervasive frustration has led some audiences to consume cyber wrecker content as an alternative information source, despite its controversial reputation.
Mark your calendars: Streaming, featuring Kang Ha-neul, is slated for release on March 21, 2025.