Controversial American live-streamer faces prison in South Korea for offensive behavior

CNN —

A controversial American live-streamer is facing the prospect of prison in South Korea for his offensive antics, in a case that is shining a light on the rise of so-called “nuisance influencers” seeking clicks overseas.

Ramsey Khalid Ismael, 24, commonly known by his online alias, “Johnny Somali,” has been indicted of causing a “commotion” at a convenience store, Seoul prosecutors confirmed to CNN. If convicted he faces up to five years in prison.

A departure ban has also been placed on Ismael, preventing him from leaving the country while authorities continue their investigation, CNN affiliate MBC News reported.

CNN has reached out to Ismael for comment. It is unclear if he has an attorney.

Ismael, who has built a reputation online for his provocative, often highly offensive video stunts, has been banned by multiple social media companies, after he was accused by critics of harassing locals in countries across Asia in an apparent effort to boost his online viewership.

The live-streamer has a combined following in the low five figures across Instagram, TikTok and Rumble. CNN reached out to all three platforms regarding Ismael’s content, but did not immediately hear back.

Earlier this month, Ismael posted an online apology after he was accused of desecrating a South Korean monument to women subjected to sexual slavery in World War II, causing widespread outrage in the country.

Angry locals threatened reprisals against the live-streamer in online posts following the incident. Footage subsequently broadcast by CNN affiliate JTBC showed Ismael being kicked as a group of people followed him. Separately, a man was arrested in Seoul last month for allegedly punching Ismael in the face, the Yonhap News Agency