The recent controversies surrounding South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun have sparked significant public outcry, particularly due to allegations related to his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. On March 12, 2025, MBC's program 'Good Day' became the focal point of viewer complaints demanding Kim's removal due to the turbulence arising from these private life controversies.
Viewer remarks posted on 'Good Day' accused Kim Soo-hyun of potentially tarnishing the show’s integrity. One viewer lamented, "The current controversy means the program and the artists connected with it, including G-Dragon, could receive backlash. It raises questions about whether the original intent of the show, which aims to spread positivity through music, can still be achieved with someone embroiled in such accusations."
Meanwhile, representatives from 'Good Day' remarked they are at present assessing their stance on the issue, indicating the gravity of the situation. This conflict might compel the production team to make swift decisions about their current cast.
Since the relationship allegations emerged, the focus has turned to how Kim Soo-hyun's image could be irrevocably damaged. According to reports from the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute on March 10, the claims suggested Kim Soo-hyun was involved with Kim Sae-ron when she was just 15—a detail which has resulted in severe backlash and allegations of child exploitation. An acquaintance has emerged, allegedly confirming the history between the two stars, reinforcing the scrutiny Kim is currently facing.
Gold Medalist, the agency representing Kim Soo-hyun, has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as "groundless rumors." They have threatened to pursue legal actions against Garo Sero Institute, which has been disseminated these claims. The agency's statement on March 10 emphasized, "The assertions being made are clearly defamatory and false—we will take the strongest possible legal measures to address this situation."
Despite Gold Medalist's assertive stance, Garo Sero Institute released text messages purportedly exchanged between the two actors, as well as images indicating their romantic relationship. These texts allegedly show Kim Sae-ron expressing distress over financial matters and pleading for time to manage debts. "It’s unfair to demand 700 million won immediately; if you can grant me more time, I will gradually repay it," the text from Kim Sae-ron reads.
The situation escalated when additional photos surfaced, allegedly showing Kim Soo-hyun kissing Kim Sae-ron, with Garo Sero Institute claiming these were taken when she was still underage. These documents have stirred outrage online, with many expressing disbelief and disappointment, drawing sharp critiques mostly from the international community, particularly on social media platforms like Weibo.
Comments from Chinese netizens ranged from shock over allegations, worrying about the collapse of Kim Soo-hyun’s once-sterling reputation, to more neutral comments awaiting more facts before making judgments. Criticism of the actor included harsh labeling of the allegations as child exploitation if proven true. The inflammatory nature of these claims has set the stage for public discourse filled with both defense for Kim and condemnation for potential wrongdoing.
Online conversations have also revealed supporters pleading for patience and investigation before jumping to conclusions. Some argued, "There’s no need to rush judgments; let the truth come out first." While there are divided opinions, the powerful backlash against Kim is undeniable. The actor’s silence amid filming responsibilities for his upcoming Disney+ series, 'Knock Off’ Season 2, raises questions about his ability to concentrate under the pressure of public scrutiny.
Despite the agency's initial claims of innocence, recent developments have seemingly eroded the public's perception of Kim Soo-hyun. It has been reported by Dispatch, another news outlet, reinforcing the idea of past romantic ties between Kim and Kim Sae-ron, which were previously thought to be fictional narratives. A source close to Kim Soo-hyun reportedly conveyed, "Given her young age then, it was impossible to affirm any romantic relationship officially. Yet rumors persist, complicatively intertwining their personal narratives."
Now, Kim Soo-hyun is faced with the immense task of protecting his career and reputation. He has remained out of the public eye since these revelations, stirring speculation about his next steps. His agency is currently not only defending his reputation but possibly re-evaluing their public relations strategy as pressure mounts from the accusations and the demands for accountability.
Above all, the tragedy of Kim Sae-ron’s untimely death has added another layer to the dispute, fueling public sorrow for her situation and turning her legacy vulnerable, as accusations continue to emerge from various directions. Kim Soo-hyun, previously seen as unshakeable within K-drama’s elite echelon, now finds himself enveloped by controversy, leaving both his professional life and personal character dangerously exposed. The decisions made by both his agency and he will be consequential as the community watches closely, awaiting clarity amid allegations and remnants of truth.
The coming days will reveal how this situation evolves—whether Kim Soo-hyun will opt to defend himself publicly or remain enshrouded by the controversies awaiting resolution. Until then, the spotlight remains firmly on him, illuminating every choice and recovery effort amid this public storm.