In a significant development unfolding in South Korea, actor Kim Soo-hyun faces serious allegations surrounding his past relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron. On March 20, 2025, the legal representative for the Gold Medalist, Law Firm Yuhan Elkaybi & Partners, publicly announced that it has filed a complaint against the YouTube channel Gaseyeon and Kim Sae-ron’s family, claiming violations of laws regarding the punishment of sexual violence crimes through the unauthorized dissemination of Kim Soo-hyun's private photographs.
The law firm clarified that the images being shared were taken during Kim Soo-hyun's relationship with Kim Sae-ron when she was an adult, and therefore should not be exposed to the public. Kim Soo-hyun’s representatives expressed severe concerns over the breach of his privacy, stating, “These images are not only inappropriate but also damaging, as they could generate a significant emotional impact on Kim Soo-hyun.” They asserted that disseminating such content represents a criminal act and threatens further legal ramifications against Gaseyeon.
These accusations coincide with allegations that Kim Soo-hyun dated Kim Sae-ron while she was still a minor. Reports from Gaseyeon claim that Kim Sae-ron's family argues that the two were in a relationship for six years, beginning when Kim Sae-ron was only 15 years old. In contrast, Kim Soo-hyun's team denies these claims, maintaining that they only began their association in the summer of 2019, after Kim Sae-ron had turned 18. The agency stressed, “The claim that Kim Soo-hyun was involved with Kim Sae-ron during her minor years is entirely false,” reinforcing their position amid the heightened scrutiny.
The controversy sparked by these allegations has placed Kim Soo-hyun’s professional engagements in jeopardy. Recently, questions have arisen regarding his scheduled participation in a fan meeting event in Taiwan, specifically during the Sakura Festival in Kaohsiung, planned for March 30, 2025. Reportedly, Taiwan's SebilleReben had organized the event, looking forward to promoting new products and engaging with fans.
However, local media outlets, referencing statements from Kim Soo-hyun's agency, suggest that his appearance at the festival is now uncertain, with the agency acknowledging, “We are assessing the current situation.” This uncertainty has caused a stir, especially as the event was set to include product launches featuring Kim Soo-hyun's image. If he does not attend, it is expected that he could face significant financial penalties, estimated at around 30 million Taiwan dollars (approximately 13.25 million Korean won).
Photos released by Gaseyeon depict moments from the alleged relationship, including intimate photos and purported images of Kim Soo-hyun. Following the controversy, Kim Soo-hyun's agency has taken a firm stance against these public claims, labeling them as unfounded and harmful. The agency noted, “We cannot ignore the veracity of these exposed images due to their potential to mislead the public and intensify false accusations regarding Kim Soo-hyun's character.”
While the fervor surrounding these allegations continues, the bereaved family of Kim Sae-ron maintains that their claims are legitimate, contradicting the actor’s stance. They allege that the nature of the relationship should not have received the attention of the media if not for the flagrant disregard for the deceased’s dignity and privacy. “We had no choice but to pursue this legal action to protect the memory of Kim Sae-ron,” they stated.
Supporters of Kim Soo-hyun have begun advocating for maintaining his reputation amidst the firestorm, emphasizing the importance of verifying facts before drawing conclusions. The actor's fanbase is rallying, referencing his previous contributions to the industry and his character. However, as details emerge and the public discourse evolves, it remains to be seen how the scandal will ultimately impact both Kim Soo-hyun's career and the legacy of Kim Sae-ron.
As discussions regarding the contradiction between the families and the claims grow louder, the legal implications remain a significant matter at hand. The upcoming legal proceedings will likely shed more light on this troubling situation, adding another layer to the unfolding narrative. In the realm of entertainment, the implications of publicity can create ripples that extend beyond the immediate parties involved, making this case a sensitive touchstone for media ethics, legal boundaries, and celebrity culture.
In summary, the escalating situation emphasizes the potential consequences of celebrity relationships and the intersection of legal matters entwined with public perception. As this story develops, both Kim Soo-hyun's integrity and the authenticity of claims regarding his past will be under investigation, keeping the public captivated and concerned.
