South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has vehemently denied allegations made by the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, stating they are entirely false and damaging to his reputation. The controversy erupted on March 10, 2025, when Garo Sero Institute claimed during their broadcast, citing purported statements from the family of the late actress Kim Sae-ron, purportedly asserting she had dated Kim Soo-hyun from the age of 15.
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, responded with strong condemnation of these claims. They stated, "The claims made by Garo Sero Institute are clearly false and malicious, and we are considering the strongest legal action against them for spreading false information." This authoritative statement emphasizes the agency's commitment to protecting Kim’s name and refuting the allegations laid out by the controversial channel.
The allegations did not stop at just the dating rumors. Garo Sero Institute also suggested collusion between Kim Soo-hyun and YouTuber Lee Jin-ho to defame Kim Sae-ron. Gold Medalist rebutted these claims, categorizing them as completely baseless and categorically stating, "We express our deep condolences for the late Kim Sae-ron. Spreading false information about her is simply unacceptable." The agency's statement acknowledges the tragic circumstances surrounding Kim Sae-ron's death and reflects their empathy during this sensitive time.
These allegations resurfaced once more after Gold Medalist had to deal with similar rumors back in March 2024. At the time, Kim Soo-hyun denied rumors about his relationship with Kim Sae-ron, calling them "groundless." Now, the agency is adamantly taking steps to challenge these renewed claims from Garo Sero Institute. Gold Medalist added, "We request the cessation of the spread and reproduction of baseless rumors," reflecting their frustration with the continuous propensity for such accusations to gain traction.
The Garo Sero Institute video, titled ‘Shocking Exclusive: Kim Sae-ron's Death, Kim Soo-hyun's 6-Year Relationship,’ dug even more deeply by falsely implying financial misconduct from Gold Medalist following Kim Sae-ron’s drunk driving accident. They claimed the agency had seemingly shifted the blame for 7 billion won (~$5.3 million) worth of damages onto Kim Sae-ron herself, which Gold Medalist unequivocally rejects.
Gold Medalist’s official statement also emphasized the importance of distinguishing fact from misinformation, noting the broader social responsibility of media platforms to avoid engaging in sensationalism, especially surrounding the tragedies of public figures. The statement highlighted how damage to reputation can extend beyond just individuals to affect their families and loved ones.
Kim Soo-hyun, who has built his career on notable roles and strong public loyalty, faces attacks on his reputation at a time when the entertainment industry is increasingly coming under scrutiny for how it handles controversies. The nature of such allegations could have serious ramifications, making Gold Medalist's measured but firm response all the more significant.
The entertainment world often finds itself tangled up in rumor and speculation, highlighting the need for responsible reporting and the protection of individuals’ reputations. Gold Medalist’s commitment to pursuing legal action sets a precedent not just for Kim Soo-hyun, but for many public figures dealing with unfounded claims.
Gold Medalist also highlighted their dismay at the allegation considering it follows so closely behind Kim Sae-ron’s passing. With the agency mourning the loss of their former talent and fighting misinformation surrounding her legacy, their stance calls for media accountability and ethical standards.
Given the significant emotional toll these public disputes impose on affected families, Gold Medalist’s requests reiterate the importance of exercising restraint and ensuring truthfulness within media narratives. The agency aimed to make it clear — the promotion of unfounded speculation generates unnecessary pain, and hence both the public and reporters need to be vigilant about the integrity of the information shared.
Finally, as they navigate these turbulent waters, Gold Medalist remains dedicated to safeguarding not just Kim Soo-hyun's good name but also the dignity of Kim Sae-ron's legacy, ensuring her memory is remembered with respect rather than marred by baseless rumors. With legal actions on the table, the company appears poised to send a clear message: unfounded allegations will not be tolerated, and truth will prevail against the tide of misinformation.