Anonymous online analyst arrested for spreading false rumors

SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Yonhap) -- Prosecutors said Thursday they have arrested a man
suspected of being the anonymous online author hailed for his biting criticism
of the government's economic policy in the wake of the financial crisis.
The 30-year old man, identified only by his last name Park, is accused of having
posted a string of unfounded market predictions under the pseudonym "Minerva" on
the country's No. 2 portal Daum.
He was arrested late Wednesday and is being questioned under custody, according
to officials at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office.
Minerva has become a subject of hot debate among market watchers, with some
describing him as a "prophet" after he accurately forecast the debacle of Lehman
Brothers Holdings Inc., which helped prompt a global financial meltdown in
September.
Park is being investigated on charges of spreading false rumors, according to
officials.
odissy@yna.co.kr
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