
Twitch streamer Asmongold has voiced his support for South Korea’s firm response to controversial content creator Johnny Somali and his disruptive behavior. Known for provocative livestreams in foreign countries, Somali—whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael—has faced multiple arrests but largely avoided serious consequences. However, that changed in October 2024, when South Korean authorities finally put their foot down, charging him with obstruction of business, violating the Minor Crimes Act, and other offenses.
Johnny Somali’s History of Controversy
Somali first gained notoriety in 2023, when he began livestreaming disruptive content. After being banned from Twitch, he moved to YouTube, Kick, and Rumble, continuing to harass locals, play loud music, and make offensive comments—most infamously about the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. His behavior led to multiple arrests across different countries, but no legal action ever seemed to stop him.
That changed when South Korea arrested him, signaling a turning point. Somali’s legal troubles escalated after he arrived an hour late to his court hearing on March 7, visibly hungover and wearing a MAGA hat. Despite the theatrics, he ultimately pleaded guilty to obstruction of business and two counts of violating the Minor Crimes Act. His next court date is set for April 9.
Asmongold: “I Think It’s a Good Thing That They’re Punishing Him”
Many online personalities, including Asmongold, have applauded South Korea’s strict stance on Somali’s antics.
“I think it’s a very good thing that they’re punishing him a lot,” the Twitch streamer stated.
While he acknowledged that a potential 10-year prison sentence might seem harsh, he also didn’t express much sympathy for Somali’s predicament. Asmongold argued that simply deporting troublemakers isn’t an effective deterrent, as they often continue their behavior elsewhere. A strict legal response, he believes, is necessary to set an example.
Johnny Somali Faces Years in Prison
Somali is currently facing four charges, including a second obstruction of business accusation. If convicted on both obstruction counts, he could face up to 10 years in prison, plus additional penalties for violating the Minor Crimes Act.
While some have debated whether such a severe punishment is justified, many see it as a warning to foreign content creators who think they can disrespect other cultures without consequences.
The Broader Trend of Disruptive Streamers Abroad
Somali isn’t the only livestreamer accused of causing chaos in foreign countries.
Another infamous example is Ice Poseidon, a controversial figure who returned to streaming in 2022 after being banned from Twitch due to his toxic community. In Japan, Poseidon faced backlash for allegedly stealing food, littering, and engaging in other disruptive behavior, reinforcing concerns about content creators treating foreign cultures as playgrounds for views.
Final Thoughts
With Johnny Somali facing potentially serious consequences, South Korea is sending a strong message: disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated. Asmongold and many others believe this approach is necessary to curb irresponsible content creators who exploit international travel for controversial, disruptive, and offensive content.
What do you think? Is South Korea’s response justified, or is the punishment too extreme?