Johnny Somali, a controversial internet personality known for his disruptive live-streaming antics, may be facing a grim future. The streamer, whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael, could be sentenced to up to 31 years in prison in South Korea after being charged with multiple offenses, including deepfake sex crimes and obstruction of business.
The charges stem from a deepfake video shared in May 2025 that depicted Somali kissing popular Korean streamer BongBong. In South Korea, the creation or distribution of deepfake content—especially involving non-consensual sexual imagery—is considered a serious sex crime. Authorities have filed two separate charges related to deepfakes, with each carrying a maximum penalty of 10.5 years, amounting to 21 years in total if convicted on both counts.
This isn’t the first time Somali has found himself in hot water abroad. His history of traveling to different countries to antagonize locals for livestream content has gained him notoriety online—and increasing legal attention. Prior to arriving in South Korea, he had already been banned from Japan and Israel due to similar disruptive behavior.
A Pattern of Provocation
In South Korea, Somali’s confrontational tactics escalated. He was frequently seen harassing residents, shouting offensive comments, and deliberately interrupting businesses and other streamers during their broadcasts. In one particularly shocking moment, he was punched and knocked out on stream by a former Korean Navy SEAL. Although the veteran was fined for assault, the incident underscored the public frustration with Somali’s actions.
Authorities began closely monitoring his movements, leading to formal investigations and, eventually, serious charges.
More Than Just Deepfakes
In addition to the sex crime allegations, Somali faces charges for obstructing business, which adds to his legal peril. South Korean law treats disruption of business—especially with intent—as a criminal offense. When combined with the deepfake counts, the total sentence could reach 31 years in prison.
What’s more, Somali is also reportedly under investigation for other potential crimes, though they have not yet resulted in formal charges. These include threats to spread HIV, alleged violations of anti-terrorism laws, and even the promotion of North Korean propaganda. Authorities have remained tight-lipped about the progress of these investigations, but they could add to his already long list of legal woes.
From Streamer to Inmate?
While Somali’s controversial content has earned him both criticism and a following online, legal experts say South Korea’s justice system is unlikely to take his behavior lightly. The country has strict laws around digital sex crimes, especially in the wake of public outcry over similar offenses involving non-consensual media.
Legal analysts believe his deepfake charges alone could be enough to keep him imprisoned for more than two decades. If additional charges are filed and convictions secured, his prison term could extend well beyond that.
His legal team is expected to fight the charges vigorously, possibly arguing that the videos were fabricated or that Somali did not intend harm. But with growing evidence and public pressure, a favorable outcome seems uncertain.
Fallout and Financial Trouble
Reports have also surfaced suggesting that Somali is struggling financially. Local media outlets claim he’s run out of money and has begged supporters online for help with legal fees and living expenses. This financial strain could further impact his ability to mount a strong defense.
Despite being a self-proclaimed “content king,” Johnny Somali’s brand of provocation may have finally caught up with him. The South Korean legal system is making it clear that such behavior won’t be tolerated—and the consequences may be more severe than he ever anticipated.
As the court proceedings continue, all eyes will be on what could become one of the most high-profile cases involving a foreign streamer in South Korea’s recent history.