Controversial livestreamer Johnny Somali, known for his IRL antics, is facing trial in South Korea following his indictment on charges of disrupting business at a convenience store. Reports from Korean media, including Korea JoongAng Daily, indicate that Johnny, whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael, was formally charged after an October 17 incident at a local 7-Eleven, where he allegedly caused a chaotic disturbance that violated South Korea’s obstruction of business laws.
The American content creator first gained notoriety for previous incidents in Japan, where he harassed locals and disrupted public spaces, eventually leading to his deportation. After relocating to South Korea in September 2024, Johnny quickly drew attention and criticism for his disruptive behavior, beginning with a subway altercation and a controversial video involving the Statue of Peace—a memorial dedicated to victims of wartime sexual slavery. His interaction with the memorial sparked outrage across South Korea, with the streamer publicly apologizing after the backlash. However, he may still face legal repercussions related to the memorial incident, adding to the charges he now faces.
10/10 21:50
泥酔しコンビニ店内で飲酒、大音量で音楽を流し踊る、ラーメンをぶちまける、最終的に女性客と口論になり警察に通報されるジョニーソマリ@JohnnySomaliX
昨年日本では同様の行為により業務妨害で起訴され有罪になった
韓国でも逮捕はよ#JohnnySomali https://t.co/mbCf9wTIR5 pic.twitter.com/t162WhmT8o— ジョニーリマソ (@canceljohnnys) October 10, 2024
The primary charge against Johnny Somali, obstruction of business, stems from his livestreamed behavior at a Seoul 7-Eleven store. During the stream, he played loud music, spilled ramen intentionally, threw noodles at the wall, and directed sexist slurs toward a female employee. Clips of the scene quickly circulated on social media, causing further public outrage. In South Korea, obstruction of business can carry severe consequences, including up to five years of imprisonment. While Somali is not detained as he awaits trial, authorities have restricted his travel, preventing him from leaving the country.
Reports indicate that the Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office officially indicted Somali on November 12. Police transferred him to the court’s jurisdiction on November 13, suggesting he is currently in judicial custody. In addition to the obstruction of business charge, Somali faces potential legal action for alleged drug use, a serious crime in South Korea that could lead to a maximum sentence of 10 years if convicted.
Johnny Somali’s pathetic apology is not only condescending but also a display of his continuous disrespect to the Korean people. If Koreans forgive him, it’ll be a scar that will stain Korea forever. Watch he sip his drink while “apologizing”.pic.twitter.com/vnE7u3Xisb
— Allen McGill (@holhydro) November 9, 2024
The content creator has amassed a reputation for causing public disturbances and insulting local cultures under the guise of “documenting” foreign countries. His actions in South Korea, however, have prompted a direct response from local citizens and creators, some of whom have confronted and even assaulted Somali during his livestreams as an expression of their disapproval. While he recently apologized for the Statue of Peace incident, many South Koreans remain skeptical about his sincerity, given his history of disregard for local customs and laws.
Johnny Somali is also under scrutiny for his use of AI-generated deepfake content involving an “AI girlfriend,” which could bring additional charges under South Korea’s strict laws against sexual deepfakes. If prosecuted for possessing or distributing explicit deepfake content, he could face up to seven years in prison and a fine of around $22,000 USD.
Koreans aren’t buying Somali’s apology. The only language Somali understands is strength. A 10-year prison sentence is the only solution. pic.twitter.com/SLf7ww5dKv
— Asian Dawn (@AsianDawn4) November 9, 2024
This latest indictment marks a significant escalation in Johnny Somali’s legal troubles as he now faces potential prison time and heavy fines. His trial is anticipated to shine a light on the consequences for foreign influencers whose behaviors are deemed offensive or illegal in their host countries. If convicted, Johnny Somali could face a substantial prison sentence, marking a turning point in the legal treatment of foreign livestreamers who push boundaries to gain online attention.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I’m Shivam Kumar. I’m pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day….
