On May 9, 2025, the agency representing South Korean actor Won Bin, Eden 9, issued a firm statement clarifying that he has no connection to recent comments made by the wife of a key informant related to actress Kim Sae Ron. The agency emphasized that Won Bin's only involvement was attending Kim Sae Ron's funeral to pay his respects.
This clarification comes in light of a press release on May 7 from the informant's wife, who had expressed vague gratitude towards Won Bin for his support during a challenging time. In her statement, she mentioned, "At first, I didn’t know who he was. I didn’t realize he was famous in Korea until I saw what he did. He came quietly and showed his respect. His kindness means more to us than we can imagine. I sincerely thank him." This expression of gratitude led to speculation about the nature of Won Bin's involvement.
During a live press conference on the same day, Kim Se-hee from the Garosero Research Institute mentioned that the informant's wife had asked him to convey her thanks to Won Bin. However, details regarding why Won Bin was being thanked or his involvement with the informant’s family were not disclosed, prompting various theories and conjectures.
Money Today later reported that Won Bin had no prior acquaintance with the informant or his wife and had never visited New Jersey, where the couple resides. A representative from Won Bin's side stated, "We do not know why the informant's wife expressed gratitude toward Won Bin. Apart from attending the funeral to express condolences, there is no other connection. From the context, it seems she was merely thanking him for his attendance at Kim Sae Ron's funeral without implying any assistance."
Additionally, rumors circulated in the entertainment industry suggesting that Won Bin had provided substantial financial support to Kim Sae Ron's family, including funeral expenses. However, representatives for Won Bin firmly denied these claims, clarifying that any financial contributions made were standard practices in such circumstances. They remarked, "We only hope that a tragic event like the untimely passing of a talented young actress like Kim Sae Ron will not happen again," adding that they wish to prevent Won Bin from being discussed in an unusual light.
On May 7, the Garosero Research Institute held a press conference revealing audio files purportedly containing Kim Sae Ron's voice. In these recordings, she claimed to have had a close relationship with actor Kim Soo Hyun since middle school, with their first deep connection occurring when she was in the second year of middle school. However, Kim Soo Hyun's camp quickly denied these claims, stating that the audio was fabricated using artificial intelligence and announced plans to pursue legal action for defamation against those spreading the rumors.
Won Bin and Kim Sae Ron had previously collaborated in the film "The Man from Nowhere," which marked one of Won Bin's last acting roles before he stepped back from the spotlight. Following Kim Sae Ron's passing, Won Bin, who is known for his reclusive nature, attended her funeral, drawing significant public attention.
In the wake of these events, the entertainment community remains abuzz with speculation and concern over the implications of these interactions and the ongoing fallout from Kim Sae Ron's tragic death. The situation highlights the often complex and intertwined relationships within the industry, as well as the challenges faced by public figures in navigating personal and professional boundaries amidst public scrutiny.
As the story continues to unfold, many are left wondering how the various parties involved will move forward. The entertainment industry is no stranger to drama, but the gravity of this situation brings a somber tone to the discussions surrounding it. Fans and observers alike are hoping for clarity and closure for those affected, especially as they reflect on the life and legacy of Kim Sae Ron.
