In a recent turn of events, South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun has found himself at the center of controversy regarding legal fees related to a lawsuit against the family of the late Kim Sae Ron and the CEO of the Garosero Research Institute, Kim Se-eui. Reports emerged claiming that Soo Hyun had failed to pay approximately 38 million KRW (around USD 26,716.51) necessary to proceed with the case, raising questions about his financial status and legal commitments.
On April 17, 2025, Kim Soo Hyun's legal representative from LKB & Partners firmly denied these allegations, stating that the full amount for litigation had indeed been paid. The spokesperson clarified that the request for an extension was merely to correct the defendant's address on legal documents, a standard procedure in legal proceedings.
The controversy began when media outlets reported that Soo Hyun was struggling to meet his financial obligations, with speculation suggesting he requested to delay the payment deadline. However, his legal team asserted that this was misinterpreted and that the extension was a routine request.
Amid the backlash, Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, announced on April 16 that they would take legal action against individuals spreading “malicious posts, false facts, and personal attacks” online. This was in response to a growing wave of cyberbullying and misinformation that had been circulating on various platforms. The agency filed a complaint under the Information and Communications Network Act on April 14, emphasizing their commitment to addressing defamation and protecting their client’s reputation.
“Malicious slander, false information, personal attacks, and sexual harassment are rampant on online community boards and social media and should not be taken lightly,” the agency stated. They indicated that they would pursue further legal measures not only within South Korea but also against international platforms like YouTube and X, targeting those responsible for the harmful content.
Fans of Kim Soo Hyun have rallied in support of the actor, launching a petition aimed at protecting him from what they describe as an 'online public trial.' This petition expresses concern over the impact of unverified rumors that have led to terminated advertising deals, privacy violations, and a surge of malicious comments. “Even if mistakes were made, the widespread circulation of baseless accusations and defamatory videos constitutes a modern-day online public trial, violating the presumption of innocence,” the petition reads.
The situation has escalated as Kim Soo Hyun navigates the fallout from his legal battles and the ongoing scrutiny of his personal life. The bereaved family of Kim Sae Ron, who passed away in February 2025, has publicly acknowledged a relationship between the late actress and Soo Hyun, demanding an official apology. This has led to a series of negative repercussions for the actor, including dropped endorsement deals and increased media scrutiny.
In a press conference, Kim Soo Hyun vehemently denied allegations that he had dated Kim Sae Ron while she was a minor. He stated, “I didn’t date when I was a minor, but I met after I became an adult,” underscoring his commitment to setting the record straight amidst the swirling rumors. The actor expressed his determination to prove the truth of his claims, stating, “I can’t say that falsehood is true because I can’t beat coercion. I will prove it for sure.”
The legal proceedings have been complicated by a court order issued on April 2, which required Soo Hyun to correct certain procedural errors related to his lawsuit. Initially, he had indicated plans to file a lawsuit worth 12 billion KRW against the bereaved family; however, the officially announced figure was 11 billion KRW. This discrepancy has fueled speculation about his legal strategy, with some critics suggesting that his request for an extension might be a tactic to prolong litigation.
Despite the challenges, Kim Soo Hyun's fanbase has remained steadfast, demonstrating significant support during this tumultuous time. The petition launched by his fans reflects a broader concern about the impact of online harassment and misinformation on public figures. As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the legal battles will affect the actor's career and reputation.
As Kim Soo Hyun continues to address both his legal challenges and the public backlash, he remains a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry. His commitment to fighting against false accusations and protecting his name has resonated with fans and supporters, who continue to advocate for a fair and just resolution.
The unfolding drama serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny faced by public figures in the age of social media, where misinformation can spread rapidly and have real-world consequences. As Kim Soo Hyun navigates these turbulent waters, the support from his fans and his agency's proactive legal measures may play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of his current challenges.
