On May 16, popular youtuber Yang Yewon, who runs a channel known as “Beagle Couple” with her boyfriend, uploaded a video talking about how she is a victim of sexual assault.

With the dream of becoming an actress, Yang tried out for a part time job modeling at a studio. The studio owner complimented her for being pretty and even offered to introduce her to popular directors and producers if she did well. Yang signed a contract with the studio owner which required changes in concepts such as “sexy” concepts. The contract components were explained vaguely and Yang was scheduled for more shoots.

 

On the first day of the shoot, Yang noticed that the owner locked the door with separate locks. She knew something was wrong when she saw that there were “around 20 men with cameras smoking.” Upon giving her extremely revealing lingerie to wear, Yang refused.

 

The studio owner told her that she would get sued for breaking the contract rules and threatened to make sure she would never be able to debut as an actress. Scared of the consequences, Yang decided to just hold it in for a day and gave in. All the men took turns taking photos while inappropriately touching her. After that day, when Yang said that she didn’t want to continue anymore, the owner threatened to release her photos.

 

Terrified, Yang went four more times and was sexually assaulted each time she went.

For a while, she did not see any of her photos online. However, one day, she received many messages from her peers saying that her photos were on a porn site. Upon the release of her photos, she received many hurtful, inappropriate comments based on her body and self.

 

In the video, Yang talked about how scared she felt when she heard one of the photographers pick up a phone call and say “Dad, I’m at work. I’ll call you later.” Knowing that there are normal people doing work like this can be really scary. Anyone can be an offender.

 

Currently, she is trying to work with the police to capture the men and prevent any more sexual assault from happening. The Blue House also has a petition with thousands of signs already.

 

Susie Song, Grade 10

Academy of the Canyons