On March 31, 2025, actor Kim Soo-hyun held a press conference in Seoul to address serious allegations regarding his past relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron, specifically claims that they dated when she was a minor. Emphasizing his innocence, Kim Soo-hyun stated, "I did not date her when she was a minor; we were in a relationship for about a year, four years before the drama 'Queen of Tears' aired." He explained that their relationship began in 2020, when he was 32 years old and Kim Sae-ron was 20.
During the emotional press conference, which took place at a hotel in Sangam-dong, Kim Soo-hyun expressed his sorrow over the situation, stating, "I feel that many people are suffering because of me. I feel sorry that the deceased cannot rest in peace." He categorically denied the allegations made by the YouTube channel 'Garo Sero Institute,' asserting that the claims of his relationship with Kim Sae-ron during her minor years are completely false.
Kim Soo-hyun revealed that he had not been in contact with Kim Sae-ron following her drunk driving incident, which occurred after their relationship ended. He stated, "After we broke up, it was a delicate matter to reach out, especially since we were both public figures. I heard from a channel representing her family that she was suffering because of me, but I knew she was dating someone else at that time, which made it even more difficult to contact her."
In response to the allegations, Kim Soo-hyun claimed that the evidence presented by Kim Sae-ron's family is manipulated and fabricated. He stated, "The evidence being shared is edited and not original. I have submitted my evidence to a verification agency for scientific analysis, and the results showed that the individuals in the conversations from 2016 and 2018 are different people." He emphasized that if the evidence from the bereaved family is genuine, it should be thoroughly verified by investigative agencies.
Kim Soo-hyun's legal representatives announced that they have filed criminal complaints and civil lawsuits seeking 120 million KRW in damages against those involved, including individuals claiming to be Kim Sae-ron's family and the operators of the 'Garo Sero Institute.' His lawyer, Kim Jong-bok, stated, "We are taking strong legal action against those spreading false information and damaging Kim Soo-hyun's reputation."
During the press conference, Kim Soo-hyun expressed frustration over the relentless accusations and the emotional toll it has taken on him. He said, "I feel like a coward for not speaking out sooner. I have been afraid of losing everything and running away from the truth. I should have shared everything from the beginning to avoid this suffering for my fans and colleagues."
In a poignant moment, he added, "I am ready to take responsibility for my actions, but I cannot confess to something I did not do." His statements were met with tears as he conveyed the burden of the accusations weighing heavily on him.
Kim Soo-hyun reiterated that he and Kim Sae-ron's relationship was consensual and that they were both adults at the time of their romance. He stated, "We were just a normal couple, sharing good feelings for each other, and eventually, we broke up like many couples do. After that, we rarely kept in touch."
He also addressed the claims made about him being responsible for Kim Sae-ron's tragic decision to end her life, firmly denying any involvement. Kim Soo-hyun remarked, "It is not true that my appearance or my agency's pressure led her to that tragic choice. After our breakup, she had started seeing someone else, and I was unaware of her struggles at that time."
As the press conference concluded, Kim Soo-hyun made a heartfelt plea for understanding, stating, "I ask you to believe me. I will prove my innocence. I cannot betray the trust of those who have supported me throughout my career." His determination to clear his name was clear as he faced the media.
The controversy surrounding Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron has sparked widespread discussion, with many fans and industry insiders weighing in on the allegations. The public's reaction has been mixed, with some supporting Kim Soo-hyun's claims of innocence while others remain skeptical of the situation.
As this story continues to develop, it raises important questions about the impact of public scrutiny on personal relationships and the responsibilities of those in the entertainment industry. Kim Soo-hyun's case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of allegations, regardless of their veracity.
In the coming weeks, it will be crucial to see how the legal proceedings unfold and whether the truth will emerge from the shadows of this scandal. For now, Kim Soo-hyun remains steadfast in his resolve to prove his innocence and protect his reputation as a respected actor.
