The controversy surrounding actor Kim Su-hyun has escalated significantly following the release of incriminatory photos and revelations about his alleged past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, which the actress's family has described as troubling and inappropriate.
On March 15, 2025, the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute released images purporting to show Kim Su-hyun performing household chores at what they claim is Kim Sae-ron's residence, wearing only pajamas and no pants. The institute insisted the photo was taken with consent from Kim Su-hyun, not clandestinely, aiming to validate their claims of a romantic relationship dating back several years. They asserted, "This is pajamas, and we took the photo with consent," seeking to frame the narrative surrounding the photo leak as one grounded in accountability rather than malice.
The allegations include assertions from the Garosero Research Institute stating Kim Su-hyun had been involved with Kim Sae-ron since she was just 15 years old, which they equate with grooming behavior, eliciting strong reactions from the public and legal representatives of the late actress. They demanded formal acknowledgment and apologies from Kim Su-hyun and his management, Gold Medalist.
These demands included addressing Kim Sae-ron's contributions as a founding member of the company and recognizing the distress caused by its handling of their relationship narrative. Kim Sae-ron's legal representative stated, "Kim Su-hyun must acknowledge and formally apologize for dating Kim Sae-ron since she was minor," establishing the emotional toll the claims have taken on her family.
Initially, Gold Medalist had planned to issue their official statement the following week. Still, due to increasing pressure from media scrutiny and public outrage, they released emergency remarks on March 14, 2025. The agency confirmed Su-hyun's past relationship with Sae-ron but contended it occurred during their adulthood, not during her teenage years. They characterized the claims as defamatory and promised stringent legal responses to Garosero's unverified accusations.
Despite this, Kim Su-hyun's position created little relief. Garosero Research Institute responded with more allegations, including the release of past photos and correspondence between Su-hyun and Sae-ron, implying the relationship had more complexity than was currently being conveyed and bringing added attention to their request for accountability.
This public row has triggered widespread discussions on social media platforms, with many netizens weighing the ethics of exposing such private matters, especially posthumously. Some discussions reflected empathy toward the family, claiming they seek closure from what they perceive as exploitation and manipulation through social media's claims.
Commentators highlighted the wrongfulness of releasing intimate images and shared sentiments questioning the motivations behind Garosero Institute's continued disclosures. Comments like, "If the roles were reversed, would this level of exposure be accepted?" and "Is this just harassment masquerading as accountability?" proliferated across online forums.
Contrastingly, some users expressed outrage toward Kim Su-hyun, stating the need for honest admission of the alleged misdeeds tied to their relationship, fueling the demand for public acknowledgment and apology.
Beyond the personal ramifications, these events have begun altering Kim Su-hyun's professional commitments. Reports indicate several brands are reconsidering their partnerships with him or completely severing ties as public sentiment turns largely negative. Notable brands like Prada and others have removed images of Kim Su-hyun, opting to distance themselves from the seemingly tarnished star.
Gold Medalist publicly commented, stating, "The release of personal pictures cannot be justified, and public criticism is not good for restoring the deceased's reputation," reiteratively calling for respectful dialogue to resolve the underlying issues without undermining the lives affected.
Adding more tension, the family is threatening legal action against those disseminators of the photos, aiming to halt the injustices they feel have deeply impacted them and tarnished Kim Sae-ron's memory.
Given the sensitivity enveloping this issue, public figures and the broader society are reminded of the violent repercussions of personal disclosures and the responsibility they hold. The ultimate goal of finding resolution and nurturing reconciliation appears more distant as parties remain embroiled. Observers continue to focus on developments both legally and socially, with hopes of addressing misjudgments and reparation.