In a shocking development, the Son Heung-min blackmail case has led to the formal arrest of two suspects — a woman in her 20s, identified by the surname Yang, and a man in his 40s, surnamed Yun. Seoul authorities allege the pair tried to extort ₩300 million KRW (approximately $220,000 USD) from the Tottenham Hotspur star in June of last year, and later attempted to demand an additional ₩70 million KRW in hush money.

Judge Yoon Han-mook of the Seoul Central District Court approved arrest warrants, citing potential risks of evidence destruction and flight.

Pregnancy Claim Used in Alleged Extortion Scheme

Yang, who reportedly had a prior personal relationship with Son, claimed to be pregnant with his child. To support her story, she allegedly submitted a doctored ultrasound image and demanded a financial settlement.

Given the sensitivity of the issue, Son opted to settle the claim privately. He transferred the requested ₩300 million KRW and signed a non-disclosure agreement with Yang.

However, the matter escalated when Yang’s partner, Yun, allegedly stepped in to demand an additional ₩70 million KRW by threatening to expose the relationship. This second attempt at extortion failed, triggering a police investigation.

Paternity Dispute and Falsified Medical Evidence

Investigators reviewing Yang’s medical records confirmed that she had experienced a past pregnancy and underwent an abortion. However, no direct evidence has linked the pregnancy to Son.

Son’s legal team continues to assert that the entire episode was a calculated act of blackmail.

Son’s Official Position and Legal Counteraction

Son Heung-min’s management agency, Son and Football Limited, released a firm statement denying the woman’s claims. They described Yang’s allegations as inconsistent and suspicious from the outset.

The agency stated that strong legal action will be taken against those who attempt to damage Son’s public image through deception and criminal intent. They made it clear that there would be zero tolerance or leniency moving forward.

Courtroom Appearance Sparks Privacy Debate

Yang’s public appearance at the warrant hearing created a stir online. Wearing only a tracksuit and handcuffed, her face and body were partially exposed — a stark contrast to the usual protocol of suspects being shielded with hats or masks.

This led to widespread criticism from netizens who felt she was denied basic privacy protections. In response, police clarified that Yang had voluntarily changed into the outfit and never asked for additional coverage.