The Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office announced on Tuesday the indictment and arrest of a woman in her 20s, identified only as Yang, on charges of extorting $219,600 from Tottenham Hotspur star and South Korea national team captain Son Heung-Min.
A man in his 40s, identified as Yong, was also indicted on attempted extortion charges in connection with the case.
The high-profile scandal, which has shocked South Korean football fans, centres on allegations that Yang, Son’s former partner, threatened to disclose a pregnancy to extract the funds, having previously attempted similar blackmail against another individual.
The Criminal Division 3, led by Chief Prosecutor Choi Soon Ho, detailed that Yang initially targeted another man with a pregnancy claim but abandoned the scheme when he did not comply.
She then turned her attention to Son, 32, allegedly sending him a fetal ultrasound image in June 2024 and claiming she was pregnant with his child.
According to prosecutors, Yang successfully extorted 300 million KRW from the footballer, who signed a written agreement with her to keep the pregnancy confidential.
The funds, investigators revealed, were spent on luxury goods and other personal expenses, leading Yang to financial difficulties.
In a further twist, Yang, now romantically involved with Yong, conspired with him in March 2025 to demand an additional $51,200 from Son. The attempt failed, prompting Son to file a complaint with the authorities.
Gangnam Police arrested Yang and Yong on May 14, 2025, and the Seoul Central District Court issued arrest warrants the following day, citing risks of evidence tampering and flight.
The arrests have fueled intense public scrutiny, with fans reflecting outrage among Son’s fans, one saying, “This is disgraceful—Son deserves justice for this betrayal.”
Son, a global football icon known for his humility and leadership, has not publicly commented on the case, but his legal team’s swift action underscores the severity of the allegations.
The extortion scheme has drawn comparisons to other high-profile cases involving celebrities, raising concerns about the vulnerability of public figures to such threats.
Prosecutors noted that Yang’s actions were premeditated, with her prior attempt against another individual indicating a pattern of exploitative behaviour.
The case has sparked broader discussions in South Korea about privacy, extortion, and the pressures faced by athletes in the public eye.
Son, who has been instrumental in Tottenham’s push for a top-four Premier League finish this season, remains focused on his professional commitments, including preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup, where Spurs are set to face Boca Juniors on June 19.
The South Korean Football Association has expressed support for Son, calling for a fair and thorough investigation.
As the legal process unfolds, Yang and Yong face significant penalties if convicted, with South Korean law imposing up to seven years in prison for extortion.
The case has also intensified calls for stronger protections for public figures against blackmail schemes. For now, the football community and Son’s supporters await further developments, with many hoping the ordeal will not overshadow his stellar career.
