I downloaded a movie via torrent. Could this be a copyright act violation?

The case you inquired about is a situation where copyright act violation charges may be at issue.

Torrent programs have a structure where files are downloaded while simultaneously being automatically transmitted to other users (P2P sharing), so even if the user did not intentionally distribute, 'public transmission' or 'distribution' acts may be established.

Article 136(1) of the Copyright Act stipulates that acts of unauthorized reproduction, public transmission, and distribution of works shall be punished by imprisonment of up to 5 years or a fine of up to 50 million won, and imprisonment and fines may be imposed together.

However, to actually receive criminal punishment, whether there was 'intent', that is, whether the user was aware of the transmission and distribution function, becomes a key issue.

If you were completely unaware of the torrent structure and downloaded simply for viewing without any monetary benefit or commercial purpose, the investigative agency may not recognize intent.

Therefore, if you receive contact, it is important to clearly organize ▲the circumstances of program use, ▲lack of awareness of the automatic upload function, ▲the absence of monetary benefit, etc.

In addition, consulting with an attorney about related materials and the direction of statements before the police investigation and preparing consistent answers will help defend against unnecessary copyright act violation criminal punishment.