Online streamer Johnny Somali aka Ramsey Khalid Ismael has come under scrutiny after he visited Korea in September 2024. It all started last month when he posted a video of him kissing the Statue of Peace in Itaewon. Not only that but he also allegedly performed an obscene act in front of the monument.
As per Korea JoongAng Daily, on October 15, 2024, he mentioned the Statue of Peace once again in a live stream and said he would perform a se*ual act. In another circumstance, he was punched by an unknown person during a later livestream. However, it took a severe turn after he was assaulted by YouTubers at Yoo “Hank” Heon-jong’s residence who happens to be Somali’s acquaintance.
His YouTube channel was removed after streaming explicit content, which he claimed was due to a hacking incident. Following the deletion, he used his backup channel to express admiration for former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Police reported on October 30, 2024, that Johnny Somali faced allegations of assault and drug use and was prohibited from leaving the country. During this time, he streamed footage of himself appearing to kiss Korean streamer BongBong_irl. She reported the video to police as a deepfake but later chose not to take legal action against him.
The next day, Korean YouTuber and former special forces soldier Dalgeun Yu physically attacked Johnny Somali in front of police officers.
On November 6, 2024, the streamer issued an apology through a YouTube video but many viewers questioned the sincerity of the apology and criticized the actions of vigilante YouTubers. Meanwhile, police referred Ismael to the prosecution for charges of obstructing business related to his behavior at a convenience store.
Johnny Somali sought help from police after he alleged that he was being stalked
Ismael reported to police in early November alleged he was being followed though authorities could not confirm this. However, on November 11, 2024, prosecutors formally indicted Ismael without detention for obstruction of business, scheduling him for trial due to his actions in the convenience store. He faces a potential sentence of up to five years in prison or a fine of 15 million won ($10,700).
The next day, Johnny Somali posted a video outside the U.S. Embassy holding what appeared to be an emergency passport. Despite that, it is unclear whether he would be allowed to leave the country.
By November 28, 2024, Johnny Somali uploaded a video claiming to be in the demilitarized zone (DMZ), with a caption suggesting he was moving to the “true Korea.” North Korean music played in the background, prompting an online community user to report him for allegedly violating the National Security Act.
Trending
On November 28, 2024, Dalgeun Yu was officially transferred to the Seoul Eastern District Prosecutors' Office to face charges related to the assault. Yu claimed that his actions were intended to protect national dignity. He also sought public donations to help cover his legal expenses following the assault incident.
According to Dexerto, lawyer Legal Mindset indicated that additional charges are expected by early December, potentially leading to a lengthy prison sentence for Johnny Somali.
Reply
