Youtuber'S 'Angel Box Girl' Stunt Lands Her Suspended Sentence

YouTube Stunt Turns Legal Drama

A woman in her 20s found herself embroiled in legal trouble after a YouTube stunt involving public nudity and solicitation for interaction in Seoul’s busy streets. Known online as "Angel Box Girl," she initially received a minor punishment but saw her sentence escalate drastically upon appeal.

The Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Appeals Division recently handed down a suspended prison sentence, marking a sharp increase from her initial fine. Chief Judge Kang Hee-seok, along with judges Cho Eun-ah and Kwak Jung-han, ruled that Lee, the orchestrator of this viral yet controversial act, would serve eight months in prison with two years' probation, plus mandatory enrollment in educational programs aimed at preventing sexual violence.

“In light of the media attention and social unrest caused, the initial sentence didn’t reflect the severity of the case,” the court stated.

From Fine to Prison

Originally fined 4 million won, Lee’s punishment grew as the legal system sought to address the societal impact of her actions. The incident, involving pedestrians being encouraged to touch her body through a designated opening in her box outfit, took place in popular districts like Apgujeong and Hongdae.

The court's decision reflects a broader trend towards stringent penalties for public indecency, particularly when amplified by digital platforms. Two other adult content representatives involved received heavier sentences than in their first trial, reflecting the court's determination to crack down on such provocations.

Performance Art or Provocation?

Lee defended her actions as a form of performance art intended to question societal norms regarding gender and nudity. In an interview, she expressed her intention to challenge outdated perceptions, noting, "I thought it was strange that a man would take off his top and a woman would be punished if she did the same." Her statement, alongside her social media post expressing a desire to push boundaries further, underscores her controversial stance.

Despite public backlash, Lee seemed unfazed by the attention, describing her chest as a source of pride rather than shame. "I want all men to touch it," she stated, emphasizing her intent was not self-deprecation but rather a bold statement of body confidence.