-
BlogsPractical Response Guide for Telegram Dating Scam Cases
Why Early Action Matters in Telegram Dating Scams Telegram dating scams typically follow a clear pattern: trust-building → financial requests → sudden disappearance. The problem is that once the victim begins to question the relationship or attempts to disengage, perpetrators often delete accounts, conversations, and profiles immediately. If evidence is not secured at this stage, it may become significantly more difficult during the criminal complaint process to prove deceptive conduct and unlawful acquisition of funds. Many victims delay action, thinking, “I should wait a little longer,” but this hesitation often reduces the chances of recovery. If you are spending your days overwhelmed by anxiety or self-blame because of this incident, those emotions are completely understandable. However, this type of crime does not resolve itself over time. It is not a matter that can be taken lightly, and failure to act early may push the case into an irreversible stage. Immediate Actions Victims Must Take If a Telegram dating scam is suspected, the following steps should be taken without delay: Capture screenshots of the entire Telegram conversation, the other party’s profile, ID, and nickname before any deletion Organize bank transfer records, crypto TxIDs, and exchange deposit/withdrawal histories Separately record the account holder’s name, wallet addresses, referral codes, or links used by the perpetrator Preserve photos and videos used by the other party in their original file format Maintain communication with the other party for a limited period solely for evidence preservation, while ensuring no additional losses occur This stage is not about emotional closure—it is about evidence preservation. The faster the response, the higher the likelihood of identifying the perpetrator and tracing the flow of funds. How to Prepare a Police Complaint That Leads to Meaningful Investigation Telegram-based dating scams rarely lead to substantive investigations if reported as mere complaints or civil petitions. A formal criminal complaint based on fraud under Article 347(1) of the Korean Criminal Act is required. A criminal complaint is a legally effective declaration requesting punishment of the offender. Key points in preparing such a complaint include: Clearly identifying what representations or materials were used to deceive the victim, and at what point Structurally explaining how emotional intimacy was linked to financial demands Where cryptocurrency is involved, presenting the possibility of exchange cooperation and account or wallet tracing Compiling circumstances that support the inference that the perpetrator intended to defraud from the outset, such as: Repeated use of similar methods Use of false identities Immediate disappearance after receiving funds In cases involving romantic relationships, the consistency and specificity of the victim’s statements often determine the direction of both investigation and trial. While explaining emotional harm is important, the core focus must be on clear, chronological, and consistent descriptions of the deceptive acts, the transfer of funds, and objective circumstances supporting fraudulent intent. Inconsistencies in statements may undermine recognition of deceptive conduct, a key element of fraud (Supreme Court of Korea, October 13, 1989, Case No. 89Do525). How Decent Law Firm Assists – Telegram Dating Scam Response Strategy Decent Law Firm does not limit its involvement to simple reporting. We design victim-focused, end-to-end criminal response strategies. Analyze the scam structure and legally reconstruct deceptive elements Organize Telegram records, crypto transfer paths, and bank account flows to establish an evidence submission strategy Provide structured support for complaint drafting and statement direction from the police investigation stage Offer realistic assessments of perpetrator identification and asset recovery potential For those whose daily lives have been shaken and emotionally devastated by this incident, legal action can offer tangible help. Telegram dating scams are not burdens that should be carried alone. In these cases, speed and precision in response are the most critical choices.
2026-01-13 Naver Blog -
Blogs
Crypto Referral Marketing: Illegal Promotion Risks
Regulatory Boundaries Under Close Scrutiny by Financial Authorities Crypto referral marketing is not always assessed as mere “simple promotion.” Crypto referral activities are often perceived as nothing more than introductions or connection services. Many believe they are legally safe because they do not directly handle virtual assets and because the exchange itself is operated by a separate entity. However, actual legal assessments may differ significantly from this perception. Investigative authorities and courts focus not on labels or contractual form, but on the substantive function the activity performs within the transaction structure. If the conduct goes beyond providing a simple link and instead induces trading participation or repeatedly and continuously encourages the use of a specific platform, such activity may be deemed to exceed the scope of mere promotion and qualify as virtual asset business activity under applicable law. Key Factors in Determining Whether Crypto Referral Marketing Is Problematic Whether a crypto-related marketing activity constitutes a reportable virtual asset business under the Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information is determined through a holistic assessment, not a single criterion. Authorities typically consider the following factors in combination: Existence of profit motive and the structure of revenue generation Whether economic benefits are linked to trading volume, performance, or number of registered users Whether the activity is repetitive and continuous (as opposed to a one-time act) Degree of direct or indirect involvement in user acquisition Whether the activity performs a substantive role in brokering, arranging, or facilitating virtual asset transactions Existence of human or physical business infrastructure Individually, each factor may appear insignificant. However, when multiple elements are combined, the activity may be deemed a virtual asset business subject to reporting obligations under the law. Common Misconceptions Regarding Crypto-Related Marketing Activities A frequent misconception in practice is the belief that “because the exchange operator exists separately, I am merely an introducer.” However, criminal and administrative liability is assessed based on the individual’s actual role and function, not the overall business structure (Seoul Southern District Court, Judgment dated December 5, 2024, Case No. 2024No1247). Even where overseas exchanges or foreign entities are involved, if crypto-related marketing activities target users in Korea, the Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information may still apply. Moreover, modifying promotional language or altering contractual forms after an issue has been identified does not affect the legal evaluation of past conduct. Article 17(1) of the Act provides that anyone who engages in virtual asset business activities without filing the required report may be punished by up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to KRW 50 million. Post hoc formal changes alone are therefore insufficient to avoid liability for already committed violations. What Should Be Reviewed Now in Crypto Referral Marketing Cases Crypto referral marketing cases require simultaneous analysis of criminal liability, regulatory interpretation, and actual transaction structures. Accordingly, Decent Law Firm provides early-stage legal support through the following approaches: Detailed classification of involvement by activity type and timeline Review of responsibility scope based on revenue structure and role allocation Preemptive assessment of criminal risk based on repetition and continuity Examination of Korean legal issues applicable even when overseas exchanges or structures are used Strategic restructuring and response planning prior to formal criminal determination Crypto referral marketing cases are judged not by outcomes, but by legal risk potential. For those already concerned about these issues, early review is often the most realistic way to reduce future exposure. How the structure is organized at the initial stage can significantly affect the eventual scope of liability.
2026-01-12 Naver Blog -
Blogs
How to File a Criminal Complaint for Workplace Harassment and Manage Legal Risks
Workplace Harassment: When Does It Escalate to Criminal Charges? Workplace harassment, in and of itself, is not subject to criminal punishment. However, if the conduct constituting harassment also satisfies the elements of crimes under the Criminal Act—such as assault, intimidation, insult, or defamation—criminal charges may be filed (Criminal Act Articles 260, 307, and 311). Many cases are resolved through internal reporting procedures, investigations, and personnel measures within the company. The issue arises when internal procedures fail to function effectively, or when the reporting itself results in retaliation. Where a superior in a position of dominance repeatedly engages in verbal abuse, publicly humiliates an employee, or where exclusion and isolation persist over an extended period, the matter goes beyond a mere internal workplace conflict. If psychological harm accumulates to the point that daily life or continued employment becomes difficult, and the harassment conduct satisfies the elements of a criminal offense, criminal prosecution may be considered. In such cases, civil claims for damages may also be pursued (Supreme Court Decision, November 25, 2021, Case No. 2020Da270503). The point at which one considers how to file criminal charges for workplace harassment should not be when emotions erupt, but when it is possible to calmly assess whether the objective legal requirements are met. For those enduring anxiety and fear alone, this article aims to clarify that there is a clearly defined area in which the law can provide protection. Types of Workplace Harassment That May Lead to Criminal Charges In practice, workplace harassment cases that escalate to criminal complaints tend to follow identifiable patterns. If repeated verbal abuse constitutes the offense of insult (Criminal Act Article 311), or if facts—true or false—are publicly alleged in a manner that damages another’s reputation (Criminal Act Article 307), criminal charges may be sufficiently supported. By contrast, private errands unrelated to work or excessive workloads may not, by themselves, meet the threshold for criminal punishment. However, if such conduct is accompanied by assault or threats, offenses such as coercion (Criminal Act Article 324) may be examined. Deliberately excluding an individual from meetings or work-related communications, or publicly labeling someone as a “problem employee” in front of others, also constitutes a serious matter. In particular, if retaliatory actions—such as disadvantages in personnel decisions, downgraded evaluations, or involuntary transfers—follow after harassment is reported, the legal gravity of the case increases significantly. Workplace harassment does not require repetition as an absolute condition. Even a single act may be recognized if it constitutes a serious infringement of personal dignity. Nevertheless, for criminal prosecution, each offense must satisfy its specific statutory elements. In cases of insult or defamation, requirements such as publicity and factual allegations must be met (Criminal Act Articles 307 and 311). Criminal Complaint Procedure and Key Pre-Filing Considerations In workplace harassment cases, accuracy in preparation and sequencing matters more than the procedure itself. The overall process typically proceeds as follows: Collection of Evidence and Organization of Facts Secure objective materials such as recordings, messenger conversations, emails, internal notices, and witness statements. Organize the incidents chronologically by date, location, and conduct. Review of Internal Reporting Options Under Article 76-3 of the Labor Standards Act, employees may report workplace harassment to the employer, who is obligated to investigate and take appropriate measures. Internal reporting is a legal right, and retaliatory treatment against the reporter is prohibited. Filing a Criminal Complaint with the Competent Investigative Authority The complaint should be drafted around the elements of applicable criminal offenses (e.g., assault, threats, insult, defamation), while also describing the broader context of workplace harassment. Investigation of the Complainant, Witnesses, and the Accused Consistency and precision in statements during interviews with investigators are critical points of evaluation. Review of Disposition and Consideration of Follow-Up Measures Depending on the outcome of the investigation, additional complaints, civil damages claims, or parallel labor law procedures may be considered. Emotional expressions or exaggerated descriptions during this process can undermine credibility. Moreover, if a complaint is dismissed, filing a complaint without an objective factual basis may expose the complainant to risks of defamation claims or counter-charges. Deciding how to file criminal charges for workplace harassment is never a matter to be taken lightly. A poorly prepared complaint can lead to further legal disputes, and this risk must be clearly understood. How Decent Law Firm Provides Assistance Decent Law Firm approaches workplace harassment cases not as emotional conflicts, but as matters of legal structure. We conduct advance reviews of whether criminal complaint requirements are met and design feasible strategies based on the quality and arrangement of evidence. We also work in collaboration with labor law specialists who are former certified labor attorneys, refining expressions that could be interpreted unfavorably during statements, and responding to criminal, labor, and civil issues in an integrated manner rather than treating them separately. The outcome of workplace harassment cases depends heavily on the initial response. The consequences of taking this issue lightly are far from insignificant. This is precisely why a structured response is necessary. Before it is too late, we strongly encourage discussing your available options with a qualified professional.
2026-01-08 Naver Blog -
Blogs
Must-Read if You Want to Avoid Penalties and Administrative Surcharges for Violations of the Fair Trade Act
Why Do We Become Parties to Violations of the Fair Trade Act? Most violations of the Fair Trade Act begin with transactional structures that have been repeated as customary practice. Conditions that have continued for years without question often come to light unchanged during investigations. Many companies assume that the mere existence of contractual provisions shields them from legal liability. However, the Fair Trade Act assesses illegality based not on the formal agreement of the contract, but on the substantive nature of the transaction and the imbalance of bargaining power between the parties. In particular, where the counterparty is in a position of economic dependence and cannot realistically refuse the terms, the conduct may be deemed unlawful regardless of the business operator’s subjective intent. In such cases, the corporation itself and the representative who holds actual decision-making authority may ultimately become the responsible parties under the Fair Trade Act. Key Transaction Structures Targeted by the Korea Fair Trade Commission Under the Fair Trade Act, abuse of superior bargaining position may arise where a business operator is recognized as having a superior position in trade vis-à-vis the counterparty (Article 45(1)(6) of the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act). If direct or indirect control over pricing, transaction terms, or business operations exists, the situation has already entered a risk zone. Using a superior bargaining position to impose unfair disadvantages on a counterparty—such as by threatening contract termination or suspension of transactions—may be regulated as abuse of superior bargaining position. In particular, discrepancies between internal standards or manuals and actual operational practices themselves can serve as grounds for determining a violation of the Fair Trade Act. Accordingly, the Korea Fair Trade Commission evaluates not only formal documents such as contracts, but also actual trading practices and operational realities in a comprehensive manner. Structures that appeared to be mutually agreed upon on the surface are often interpreted as unilateral control during the course of an investigation. From This Stage, Investigation and Sanction Risks Become Real Fair Trade Act cases may begin through complaints filed by counterparties or through ex officio investigations initiated by the Korea Fair Trade Commission. Once a complaint is received or an ex officio investigation is launched, the Commission may examine transaction records and related materials concerning the alleged violation. For this reason, the response strategy at the initial stage is a decisive factor in determining the outcome. Inaccurate explanations during document submissions, poor internal document management, or inconsistent statements can become fatal grounds for adverse findings. If the degree of violation is not minor, corrective measures and administrative surcharges may be imposed. Where the violation is objectively clear and serious enough to substantially harm the competitive order, criminal referral may follow. When criminal punishment is imposed for violations of the Fair Trade Act, the dual liability provisions may apply, resulting in penalties not only for the corporation but also for its representative officers. This is therefore a matter that must never be taken lightly. How Decent Law Firm Provides Assistance Decent Law Firm works in collaboration with corporate law specialists to practically assess and respond to fair trade risks arising in the course of corporate operations. Rather than limiting our review to formal contractual terms, we focus on actual transaction structures and operational realities, providing assistance in the following ways: Preemptive risk assessments of transaction structures, contracts, and operational practices Clarification of criteria for potential Fair Trade Act violations and advisory on structural improvements Development of response and substantiation strategies for KFTC investigations Practical, industry- and company-size–specific compliance support Fair Trade Act penalties are an area where it is already too late to begin considering solutions after issues have arisen. Assessing whether current transaction practices may fall within the scope of regulation is, in itself, the most realistic and effective form of response.
2026-01-08 Naver Blog -
Blogs
Mandatory 'AI Content Labeling System' Starting 2026: An Essential Guide for Businesses and Marketers
With the rapid advancement of AI technology, marketing strategies utilizing virtual humans or AI-generated content have become commonplace. In response, to prevent consumer confusion and establish a sound market order, the government is set to fully implement the ‘AI Content Labeling System’ starting January 2026. This column summarizes the key aspects of the AI Labeling System—including its background, legal basis, practical labeling methods, and risks of non-compliance—that corporate marketing managers and influencers must be aware of. 1. Background: Preventing Misinformation and Market Disruption The primary reason for enforcing the AI Labeling System as a legal obligation is the surge in false and exaggerated advertisements exploiting AI technology. The "Fake Expert" Problem: There has been an increase in cases where fake doctors or experts created via deepfake technology recommend unverified products, hindering consumers' rational choices and causing financial damage. Establishing Market Order: The government has defined these practices not merely as marketing but as "acts disturbing market order." Consequently, it has mandated the disclosure of AI generation (e.g., "This content was created by AI") to ensure consumers can clearly identify the authenticity of information. 2. Legal Basis and Key Provisions The AI Labeling System is not a simple recommendation but a strong legal obligation based on the following laws: Category Key Provisions Note Framework Act on AI Effective Jan 22, 2026. Mandates labeling and notice for high-impact and generative AI services. Administrative Fines IT Network Act Requires uploaders to label AI content and imposes management/notice responsibilities on platforms. Amendment targeted for Q1 2026 Labeling & Advertising Act Regards concealing or exaggerating AI use as Unfair Labeling/Advertising. Punitive Damages In particular, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) plans to strictly sanction AI Washing—the act of concealing the use of AI to make content appear human-created—viewing it as deceptive advertising. 3. Practical Guide: Who, What, and How to Label 1) Obligated Parties: AI Business Operators Under the law, the obligated parties are defined as "AI Business Operators." This encompasses not only AI technology developers but all business entities (corporations, organizations, and individuals) that provide products or services utilizing AI. 2) Content Subject to Labeling Generative AI Products/Services: Prior notice is mandatory when providing AI-based services such as chatbots or image generation tools. Deepfake Results: Virtual audio, images, or videos that are difficult to distinguish from reality. Advertising Content: AI-generated content for commercial purposes, such as shopping mall detail pages and influencer sponsored ads. 3) Labeling Methods and Exceptions General Principle: Must be labeled in a way that consumers can clearly recognize (e.g., subtitles, watermarks, etc.). Cultural/Artistic Exception: However, if the content qualifies as a "artistic or creative expression" and labeling would significantly hinder appreciation, flexible labeling exceptions may apply (Article 31, Paragraph 3 of the Framework Act on AI). 4. Penalties and Risks (Fines vs. Damages) Sanctions for violating the AI labeling duty are divided into administrative sanctions (fines) and civil liability (damages). ① Violation of the Framework Act on AI: Administrative Fines If an AI business operator fails to comply with the labeling duty or fails to notify the production of deepfakes, they will receive a corrective order from the Minister of Science and ICT. Failure to comply may result in an administrative fine of up to 30 million KRW. ② Violation of the Labeling & Advertising Act: Punitive Damages Beyond simple failure to label, if the act involves malicious false or exaggerated advertising (e.g., using fake experts), the Fair Labeling and Advertising Act applies. Current: Liability for damages up to 3 times the amount of damage. Proposed Amendment: The government is pushing for an amendment to increase this limit to up to 5 times to eradicate market disturbance. 5. Conclusion and Response The AI Labeling System is not a regulation saying "Do not use AI," but rather a standard of trust requiring "Transparency if AI is used." With the January 2026 implementation approaching, companies must review their internal compliance processes to prevent unnecessary legal disputes. The Corporate Law Team at Decent Law Firm provides professional assistance regarding AI and IT-related legal advisory and compliance system construction. Please feel free to contact us if you have any inquiries.
2026-01-07 Naver Blog -
Blogs
Essential Strategies to Check Before Consulting a Wage Claim Attorney
Unpaid Wages May Go Beyond a Simple Dispute Unpaid wages are not merely a civil monetary dispute. They may constitute a criminal violation of the Labor Standards Act, including Article 36 (Settlement of Monetary Claims) and Article 43 (Payment of Wages). Under Article 109(1) of the Labor Standards Act, such violations may result in criminal liability punishable by up to three years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to KRW 30 million. In principle, unpaid wages constitute a violation of the Labor Standards Act regardless of the employer’s ability to pay or financial difficulties. An exception is recognized only in limited circumstances where, despite the employer’s full good-faith efforts, non-payment was unavoidable to a degree that is socially acceptable (Supreme Court Decision, October 9, 2008, Case No. 2008Do5984). Because unpaid wages directly affect an individual’s livelihood, this issue should never be treated lightly. We hope this article serves as a practical starting point for those currently facing anxiety and uncertainty over wage-related issues. Common Situations That Constitute Unpaid Wages Whether wages are unpaid is determined not by the employer’s explanation or circumstances, but by whether payment was actually made—and whether it was made on time. Substance prevails over form. When the following factors are present, the situation is likely to be deemed unpaid wages: Agreed wages or weekly holiday allowances were not paid on the scheduled payday Overtime, night, or holiday work was performed but the corresponding premiums were omitted Severance pay was not paid within 14 days after termination of employment Despite contractual labels, the worker was in fact under the employer’s direction and supervision Wage payment was delayed due to the company’s cash flow or financial issues Statements such as “payment was scheduled soon” or “the company was experiencing difficulties” do not, by themselves, excuse liability for unpaid wages. Article 43(2) of the Labor Standards Act requires wages to be paid at least once per month on a fixed date. Violation of this provision generally constitutes a breach of the Act. Liability may be exceptionally excluded only where it is socially recognized that payment was impossible despite the employer’s full and sincere efforts (Supreme Court Decision, October 9, 2008, Case No. 2008Do5984). Ultimately, Liability Falls on the Representative One of the most common responses in unpaid wage cases is the belief that “this is merely a company issue.” However, from the perspective of investigations and trials, unpaid wages are often attributed not to the company as an abstract entity, but to the individual representative who decided and managed wage payments. Key considerations include whether the representative determined the priority of fund disbursement, whether wages could have been paid but other expenses were chosen instead, and what actions were taken after becoming aware of the arrears. Explanations such as “the matter was handled by staff” or “it was delegated to the finance team” are frequently insufficient to disperse responsibility. Moreover, attitudes and explanations provided during labor office investigations are often reflected throughout subsequent proceedings. If wage issues are treated as internal disputes or handled without a clear legal framework at this stage, cases can quickly escalate into criminal liability—after which resolution through settlement or delayed payment becomes far more difficult. Unpaid wages are not merely the result of poor management decisions. If mishandled, they can lead to fines imposed on the representative personally, a criminal record, and enhanced penalties for repeated violations. This is no longer an issue that can be postponed—the initial judgment effectively determines the scope of liability. How Decent Law Firm Assists – When a Wage Claim Attorney Gets Involved, Outcomes Change Decent Law Firm does not approach unpaid wage cases as simple complaints or emotional disputes. We systematically analyze working hours, various wage components, and severance calculations, and design response strategies that comprehensively consider civil, criminal, and administrative procedures. The role of a wage claim attorney goes beyond drafting documents. It involves determining which procedures to pursue, at what timing, and how to respond at each stage to maximize the likelihood of recovery. Unpaid wage cases are ultimately a race against time. While hesitation and worry persist, the situation can quickly become more unfavorable. Do not take this issue lightly. Before it is too late, seek the assistance of a labor law specialist at an early stage.
2026-01-06 Naver Blog
