On May 7, 2025, a press conference held by the family of the late South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron and representatives from the YouTube channel 'Hover Lab' unveiled shocking allegations against actor Kim Soo-hyun. The family accused Kim Soo-hyun of engaging in a sexual relationship with Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor and of taking explicit photos of her without consent. The allegations have reignited discussions surrounding the treatment of women in the entertainment industry and the legal responsibilities of public figures.
During the press conference, lawyer Boo Ji-seok, representing Kim Sae-ron's family, played a recording of a conversation between Kim Sae-ron and a long-time friend from January 10, 2025. In this recording, Kim Sae-ron spoke emotionally about her experiences, stating, "I felt forced into a relationship with him during my middle school years. Everyone asks why he isn’t being punished for his actions." The recording revealed that Kim Sae-ron's first sexual encounter with Kim Soo-hyun occurred during her second year of middle school, specifically during winter break.
Kim Sae-ron's allegations included claims that Kim Soo-hyun had flaunted his sexual relationships with other idols and even saved their names in his phone with derogatory nicknames. She expressed her anger over these experiences, saying, "If I had the financial means, I would have exposed everything long ago. They are truly terrifying and can do anything to silence me." This emotional revelation has drawn significant public attention and sympathy for Kim Sae-ron's family.
Moreover, the press conference brought to light that the informant who provided the recording had faced severe threats. According to Kim Se-ui of 'Hover Lab,' the informant was attacked on May 1, 2025, by two assailants, one Korean and one Chinese-Korean, who entered the U.S. through JFK airport. This attack left the informant with nine stab wounds, and the FBI is currently investigating the incident. Kim Se-ui claimed that the informant had previously received an offer of 400 million Korean won (approximately $290,000) from Kim Soo-hyun's representatives in exchange for the recording, which was rejected.
In response to these allegations, Kim Soo-hyun's representative, Lee Hyun-ho, held a counter-press conference, asserting that the recording played during the previous conference was fabricated using AI technology. He claimed that the images of the informant's injuries were stolen and could be easily verified through a simple Google search. Lee stated, "The information presented was not thoroughly checked, and it raises serious concerns about the credibility of the claims being made by 'Hover Lab.'" This rebuttal has added another layer of complexity to the unfolding scandal.
Kim Sae-ron's family has formally filed charges against Kim Soo-hyun for violating the Child Welfare Act and for defamation. The family’s lawyer emphasized that Kim Soo-hyun's actions constituted sexual abuse and harassment, and they are committed to pursuing legal action. The lawyer stated, "We confirm that Kim Soo-hyun's actions towards Kim Sae-ron began during her middle school years and were abusive in nature. We will hold him accountable for his actions." This legal pursuit reflects a growing movement in South Korea to address and combat sexual violence, particularly in the entertainment industry.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Kim Sae-ron's death on February 16, 2025, have amplified the urgency of these allegations. Many fans and advocates are calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for those involved. The public's reaction has been one of outrage, with many expressing their support for Kim Sae-ron's family and their quest for justice.
As this story continues to develop, it raises important questions about the power dynamics in the entertainment industry and the responsibilities of those in positions of influence. The allegations against Kim Soo-hyun serve as a stark reminder of the need for systemic change to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse and exploitation.
In the wake of these revelations, the entertainment community is being urged to reflect on its practices and to take a stand against any form of abuse. The case has sparked conversations about consent, accountability, and the importance of listening to and believing survivors of sexual violence.
As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the legal system will respond to these serious allegations and whether it will lead to meaningful change in the industry. The hope is that Kim Sae-ron's tragic story will not be in vain and that it will contribute to a broader movement towards justice and reform.
