Jang Won-young, a member of the popular K-pop girl group IVE. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, May 10 (Korea Bizwire) –South Korean authorities have launched an investigation after a disturbing online post threatened the safety of Jang Won-young, a member of the popular K-pop girl group IVE.
Starship Entertainment, the agency that manages IVE, revealed on May 9 that a menacing message targeting Jang had surfaced on an online community the previous day. The post explicitly specified a date and time for carrying out harm against the 19-year-old singer.
“We have reported this threat to the police, who have initiated an investigation into the person behind the post,” a Starship Entertainment representative stated. “Once the individual’s identity is confirmed, we will pursue legal action.”
The entertainment company emphasized its commitment to safeguarding its artists, stating, “We have reinforced professional security personnel and are re-evaluating safety protocols for our artists’ travel routes, company buildings, and residences. Moving forward, we will heighten monitoring efforts and respond swiftly with legal measures against any threats to our artists’ well-being.”
Jang Won-young first gained prominence in 2018 through the Mnet audition show “Produce 48,” where she was selected as a member of the temporary project group Iz*One. After Iz*One’s disbandment, she made her redebut in 2021 as the center of the six-member girl group IVE, quickly becoming one of K-pop’s most recognized stars.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
