Kim Soo-hyun, acclaimed South Korean actor, recently walked the red carpet at the '60th Baeksang Arts Awards' held on May 7, 2024. Amidst the glitz and glamor associated with the prestigious event, he currently finds himself embroiled in controversy stemming from allegations surrounding his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron.
On March 12, 2025, the YouTube channel Gaseyeon released a video titled "[Shocking Exclusive] Kim Sae-ron Loved by Sereno (Kim Soo-hyun's handwritten letter to a soldier)". The video included not only sensational claims about Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron's supposed six-year romantic relationship but also presented various photos and letters purportedly exchanged between the two actors. Gaseyeon alleged the relationship began when Kim Sae-ron was just 15 years old, and she reportedly continued the relationship through her teenage years.
Among the evidence shared by Gaseyeon were intimate photos, including one showing Kim Soo-hyun kissing Kim Sae-ron on the cheek, alongside handwritten letters from Kim Soo-hyun during his military service. Notably, one letter dated June 9, 2018, included affectionate words, with Kim Soo-hyun expressing, "I miss you," and another letter from Paris detailed his sentiments, stating, "Saerono-ya. I’m drinking wine in Paris... I love you." This personal correspondence raised eyebrows and added fuel to the allegations.
Kim Soo-hyun's agency, Gold Medalist, was quick to retaliate, categorically denying the allegations. Their statement labeled the claims from Gaseyeon as "completely false," and they indicated their intent to pursue strong legal action. They argued, "The content claimed by 'Gaseyeon' through YouTube broadcasts related to Kim Soo-hyun is clearly false..." emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding Kim Soo-hyun's integrity.
Ten days prior to the Gaseyeon's video release, on March 10, Kim Se-ui from Gaseyeon had conducted live broadcasts declaring, "[Shocking Exclusive] Kim Sae-ron's Death Linked to Kim Soo-hyun (Kim Sae-ron's Relationship with Kim Soo-hyun from Age 15 for 6 Years)" This assertion received significant media attention and created public discourse about the nature of their relationship. Kim Se-ui insisted Kim Soo-hyun played a prominent role throughout Kim Sae-ron's life, especially following her tragic demise.
During the uproar, Kim Sae-ron's mother also spoke out, emphasizing the need for honesty surrounding her daughter's past. She stated, "It’s not about saying I won’t let you down. I need to be more open and recognize it," shedding light on the alleged complications of their relationship. She discussed how when Kim Sae-ron was younger, even her family remained unaware of the romance. "Celebrities can meet in works and can contact each other, right? But I found out about it then because they kept contacting each other and sending pictures from the military, and I thought it was strange. I was very against it," she recounted.
Despite the allegations, Kim Soo-hyun's side has resolutely maintained its stance, asserting their claims as mere fabrications aimed at slandering both the actor's and Kim Sae-ron's reputation. Gold Medalist’s spokesperson confirmed, "We plan to take the strongest legal action against Garosero Institute's dissemination of false facts," signifying their intent to protect their client's image vigorously.
The controversy continues to escalate as Gaseyeon persists with its coverage, releasing additional photos tied to the claims. The subsequent narratives invite discourse related to privacy, celebrity relationships, and the impact of social media on public perception. While Kim Soo-hyun is unable to shake off this shadow hanging over him, he continues his professional commitments, presently engaged with Disney+ production 'Knock Off' and awaiting the show's release set for April 2025.
His dedication to his craft remains steadfast, reflected by his previous accolades, and his unwavering fanbase continues to show support amid the turmoil. Nevertheless, as the consequences of these allegations could ripple through his career, public sentiment and media scrutiny remain on guard.
The discussion surrounding this incident extends well beyond entertainment news; it plays directly at the heart of human relationships and the societal norms surrounding them, particularly when minors are involved. Navigated by the intersections of fame, accountability, and ethics, this situation presents complex challenges for everyone involved, particularly for the late actress's family and the reputations of involved parties.
With the situation still developing, all eyes remain on Kim Soo-hyun, as the potential repercussions on his career and personal life are yet to be fully realized. Will justice be served, or will public opinion navigate these allegations toward acceptance or rejection? Only time will tell.