South Korean actress Kim Gyu-ri expressed relief after the court ruled in favor of those involved in the “cultural blacklist” case linked to the administration of former President Lee Myung-bak.
She was among 34 celebrities who were blacklisted for voicing criticism against the former government a move that severely affected their careers and opportunities.
According to Times Entertainment, the court confirmed that the previous administration was responsible for restoring the rights of the affected artists. Kim now focuses on rebuilding her career and advocating for an end to discrimination against artists based on their political or cultural views.
Kim shared that being on the blacklist took a deep psychological toll, leaving her under pressure for years. Initially, the court ruled that Lee Myung-bak and the former head of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) were liable to pay damages but dismissed claims against the government, citing an expired statute of limitations.
However, a recent High Court decision overturned that part of the ruling and ordered the government to pay ₩5 million (approximately US$3,430) in compensation to each plaintiff.
On November 7, the NIS released an official statement acknowledging the Seoul High Court’s ruling from October 17 and issued a written apology to “those who suffered material and emotional harm” due to the incident. —Boom!
