Kim Sae Ron Kim Soo Hyun Controversy: A Deep Dive into the Scandal Rocking the Korean Entertainment Industry

Kim Sae Ron Kim Soo Hyun Controversy: The Korean entertainment industry has been rocked by a major controversy involving actor Kim Soo-Hyun and the late Kim Sae Ron. Allegations, counterclaims, leaked photos, and criminal charges have turned this scandal into a highly debated topic. The controversy, which initially started with a simple rumor, has now escalated into a legal battle with serious implications.

Timeline of Kim Sae Ron Kim Soo Hyun Controversy Events

March 10: The First Allegations Surface

The controversy erupted when Garosero Research Institute (HoverLab), a YouTube channel, released a video claiming that Kim Soo-Hyun had secretly dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor. The video featured someone believed to be Kim Sae Ron’s aunt, who stated that the relationship began when she was 15 years old and Kim Soo-Hyun was 27.

She further alleged that Kim Sae Ron had left YG Entertainment in 2019 to join Gold Medalist, Kim Soo-Hyun’s agency, supporting him in various ways, including offering acting lessons and handling fresh talent.

Kim Soo-Hyun’s Alleged Distancing After Kim Sae Ron’s DUI Case

The allegations intensified when Kim Sae Ron’s aunt claimed that after Kim Sae Ron’s driving under the influence (DUI) case in 2022, Kim Soo-Hyun distanced himself from her. She further stated that the actor and his agency contributed to Kim Sae Ron’s financial struggles, which ultimately led to her tragic death by suicide.

Leaked Messages and Photo Controversy

Kim Sae Ron’s Desperate Plea for Financial Help

A leaked text message from Kim Sae Ron to Kim Soo-Hyun revealed her financial distress. The message read:

“Oppa, it’s Sae Ron. I received a certified document. It says they are suing… They said they would give me enough time, so I am diligently preparing for my return. I am not saying I won’t pay it back, but if they ask for 700 million won right now, I really cannot do it. Do we really have to go as far as a lawsuit? Please save me… I am begging you, give me some time.”

Leaked Photos and Backlash

Shortly after, a 2016 selfie of Kim Soo-Hyun kissing Kim Sae Ron on the cheek was leaked online. Given that Kim Sae Ron was still a minor at the time, the internet erupted in outrage. The actor faced backlash, with many labeling him a “groomer” and “pedophile”.

Kim Soo-Hyun’s Agency’s Response

Initial Denial

Kim Soo-Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, initially denied all allegations, calling them “baseless and malicious”.

Confirmation of Relationship

However, as more evidence surfaced, the agency changed its stance. They confirmed that Kim Soo-Hyun and Kim Sae Ron were in a relationship, but only after she became a legal adult in 2019. They denied that Kim Soo-Hyun had ever dated her while she was underage.

The Legal Dispute Over Debt

The agency defended their legal notice demanding 700 million won ($483,000 USD) from Kim Sae Ron, stating that they had written off the debt as an uncollectible expense in December 2023. They maintained that they were legally required to attempt debt collection before doing so.

Setbacks for Kim Soo-Hyun

The scandal has had severe consequences for Kim Soo-Hyun:

• He lost 0.6 million Instagram followers in a matter of days.
• Luxury brands like Prada Korea, Dinto, Cuckoo China, and Jeju Air have severed ties.
• His upcoming drama “Knock-Off” faced boycott demands.
• Rumors of Disney+ suing him for damages surfaced.

Criminal Charges and Further Leaks

Kim Soo-Hyun’s Agency Files Criminal Charges

Gold Medalist has filed multiple criminal lawsuits against HoverLab and Kim Sae Ron’s family, accusing them of:

• Violating the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes.
• Illegally distributing private photographs, including a leaked image of Kim Soo-Hyun partially undressed at Kim Sae Ron’s house.

Kim Sae Ron’s Mother’s Demands

Kim Sae Ron’s mother issued a public list of demands, including:

1. A public apology from Kim Soo-Hyun, acknowledging that he dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor.
2. An official apology from Gold Medalist for alleged media manipulation.
3. Acknowledgment and an apology for sending Kim Sae Ron a legal notice over the 700 million won debt.

Where is Kim Soo-Hyun Now?

As the controversy escalates, Kim Soo-Hyun has largely avoided public appearances. His agency remains silent on the latest allegations, while Garo Sero Research Institute continues to threaten more photo leaks.

Overview

The Kim Soo-Hyun-Kim Sae Ron controversy remains a highly debated topic, with new revelations emerging each day. While Gold Medalist continues to defend Kim Soo-Hyun, the actor’s reputation has taken a major hit. Only time will tell how this scandal unfolds and whether Kim Soo-Hyun can recover from the damage.