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20 March 2025

Kim Soo-hyun Takes Legal Action Against Privacy Violations

Gold Medalist files complaint over leaked personal photos amid ongoing controversy

On March 20, 2025, Gold Medalist, the agency representing actor Kim Soo-hyun, filed a police complaint against Kim Sae-ron's family and the operator of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, Kim Se-ui. This legal action emerges amidst ongoing controversies relating to the public release of private photographs of Kim Soo-hyun, specifically a suggestive image depicting the actor shirtless.

The complaint, submitted by the law firm LKB & Partners, accuses Kim Se-ui and the legal representatives of Kim Sae-ron of violating the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes. The firm highlighted that the problematic photograph was taken during a time when Kim Soo-hyun and then-minor Kim Sae-ron were reportedly dating. They assert that the image, inherently suggestive and humiliating for Kim, should never have been made public.

According to the legal representatives, the Garo Sero Institute has been persistently threatening to release additional images of the actor, prompting Gold Medalist to take urgent legal measures. The controversy heated up when, just ten days prior to the filing, Garo Sero Institute propagated rumors alleging that Kim Soo-hyun had a six-year relationship with Kim Sae-ron starting in 2015, when she was just 15 years old.

In response to these claims, Kim Soo-hyun has acknowledged that he did indeed date Kim Sae-ron but insists that their relationship commenced after she reached adulthood in 2019. The agency's legal team firmly rebuffed Garo Sero's allegations, clarifying that any romantic involvement prior to 2019 is inaccurate. Despite their denial, Garo Sero Institute continues to demand an apology from Kim Soo-hyun while also sharing a photo of him at Kim Sae-ron's home, reportedly doing chores.

The situation escalated further as Gold Medalist released a statement expressing deep grief over the passing of Kim Sae-ron, indicating that while they mourn her loss, they must concurrently address the violations of her family and by Garo Sero Institute. The firm articulated, “The public posting of this photograph, which was obtained from a private relationship, is not only illegal but completely without justification.” They also noted that the continuous threats and potential for further violations necessitated immediate and definitive legal action.

Gold Medalist further accused Garo Sero Institute of exploiting the situation to harass Kim Soo-hyun. “These threats are an abhorrent invasion of privacy and emotional distress,” the firm added, highlighting the severity of the violation against Kim. By referring to their actions as a clear crime, Gold Medalist is asserting the need for judicial repercussions against those involved.

The law firm has emphasized that the photos in question were captured when both individuals were in a consensual relationship, and they contend that this aspect should exempt the private images from public scrutiny. “It is an absolute violation of Kim Soo-hyun's privacy and dignity to expose such private matters without consent,” stated LKB & Partners.

Adding to the complexity of the case are claims from Garo Sero Institute about alleged financial disputes between Gold Medalist and the family of Kim Sae-ron. They claimed there was a demand for repayment of a significant sum of 700 million won, which they allege to be a point of contention fueling this situation.

In summation, Gold Medalist has taken a firm stance against what they categorize as a gross violation of privacy and potential exploitation of a deceased individual's family for sensationalist narratives. The agencies' protective measures speak to the lengths they are willing to go to defend their clients' reputations and will likely continue to unfold as the situation develops.

The unfolding circumstances surrounding Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron exemplify a troubling intersection of celebrity culture, privacy rights, and digital media ethics. As the case progresses, it will undoubtedly raise important questions about consent, the responsible use of personal images, and the legal implications for those who may exploit such sensitive information for public gain.

With the increasing visibility of digital platforms, this case punctuates the ongoing dialogue surrounding privacy, especially for public figures such as actors. How society handles these sensitive topics can lead to significant implications for both the individuals involved and for the broader legal and cultural standards governing privacy and consent.