On March 10, 2025, Goldmedalist, the agency representing actor Kim Soo-hyun, firmly denied allegations raised by the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, stating the claims about Kim’s alleged misconduct toward the late Kim Sae-ron are entirely false. The accusations made reference to purported collusion between Kim Soo-hyun and YouTuber Lee Jin-ho, framing it as harassment of the deceased actress, who tragically passed away from complications following a drunk driving incident.
The Garo Sero Institute claimed Kim Sae-ron had been involved romantically with Kim Soo-hyun since the age of 15 and suggested mishandling of her tragic accident by Goldmedalist. Such statements prompted Kim Soo-hyun's agency to issue a press release condemning these assertions, clearly stating, "Garo Sero Institute's claim concerning Kim Soo-hyun is clearly false and we will take strong legal action against such misinformation."
Goldmedalist expressed sincere condolences for Kim Sae-ron’s untimely death, emphasizing their distress over her loss. The agency stated, "We feel heartbreaking sadness over the news of the deceased Kim Sae-ron's death and mourn for the late actress," highlighting the deep emotional impact of her passing on those who knew her. Despite their mourning, Goldmedalist targeted the actions of Garo Sero Institute, which they accused of perpetuating what they called 'cyberbullying.'
Kim Sae-ron, born in 2000, was found dead on February 16, 2025, at her residence located in Seongdong-gu, Seoul. Her death echoed disturbing concerns surrounding mental health and the vicious nature of online speculation, especially among celebrities. Friends and colleagues of Kim Sae-ron have indicated she had been suffering from the emotional toll inflicted by continuous online harassment and slander, particularly linked to unfounded rumors circulated on social media and various online platforms.
The backlash against media practices has sparked broader discussions within the entertainment industry. A petition was submitted to the National Assembly on February 24, 2025, requesting legislative measures to prevent celebrities from being victimized by malicious journalism and irresponsible online commentary. The petition emphasized the need for accountability and responsible reporting standards within the sphere of entertainment journalism. By March 10, the petition gained significant traction, accumulating over 8,400 signatures.
Goldmedalist's announcement of legal action highlights the severe ramifications such accusations can have on the well-being of individuals within the industry. Their public statement reinforced the need for proper media conduct, especially during such sensitive times. The agency vehemently labeled the allegations made by Garo Sero Institute as not only spurious but damaging to the categorically innocent parties involved.
With the growing acceptance of social media and the influence of platforms like YouTube, the spread of misinformation poses increasing challenges for public figures. The importance of fact-checking and mitigating the effects of false narratives cannot be overstated, particularly when dealing with the lives of young individuals grappling with fame and personal struggles.
Kim Soo-hyun's agency concluded their statement with an earnest plea to the public, asking for the cessation of the dissemination of false information stating, "We urge you to stop the unwarranted spread of these baseless claims to protect not only our clients but also their reputations and the memory of the late Kim Sae-ron."
The discourse surrounding this situation raises pertinent questions about ethics, responsibility, and the impact of digital media on mental health. The tragic loss of Kim Sae-ron serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals under the public eye and the urgent necessity for reform and accountability within the media's portrayal of such sensitive matters.
Moving forward, the film and entertainment community must unite to advocate against cyberbullying and establish supportive environments for artists and performers to navigate both the challenges of their craft and the toxicity of unregulated online commentary.