On March 13, 2025, images of messages exchanged between actor Won Bin and the late actress Kim Sae-ron were revealed, drawing significant public attention and stirring emotions across social media. The messages highlight the actor's genuine concern, as he offered financial assistance to Kim Sae-ron during her tough times prior to her untimely death.
Among these messages, sent through his manager on July 12, 2023, Won Bin asked, "Do you need help with your debts? The number doesn’t matter," showing his willingness to provide support without judgment. Kim Sae-ron's response came just three days later, on July 15, where she expressed gratitude but insisted, "I really appreciate your help, but I want to resolve this matter by myself this time." This left many wondering if her pride may have inadvertently trapped her amid her struggles.
Things took another turn on July 20, 2023, when Won Bin reportedly made an anonymous transfer of 230 million won (approximately $158,000) to Kim Sae-ron’s mother’s medical account, accompanied by the tender note: "For ice-cream cone." This action reinforced claims of the deep bond they shared, stemming from their collaboration in the critically acclaimed 2010 movie, The Man from Nowhere, where Won Bin played a protective character to the young Sae-ron.
Adding complexity to the narrative, Kim Sae-ron reportedly faced significant financial troubles. Disclosures from bystanders depicted her living under pressure as she encountered mounting debts. Allegedly, on March 19, 2024, Kim Sae-ron reached out to fellow actor Kim Soo-hyun, pleading, "I’m not saying I won’t pay, but if you demand 700 million won right now, I really can’t do it… Please help me. I’m begging you—just give me more time." This heartfelt message was indicative of her dire feelings, spiraling downward amid looming threats from her former agency, Gold Medalist.
Kim Sae-ron's request for leniency would go unanswered, unfortunately, and she was reported to have faced intense scrutiny from the media and netizens—all this occurring after she had already suffered public backlash from her DUI incident back in May 2022. A handful of individuals speculated about the nature of her relationship with Kim Soo-hyun, particularly when attention shifted to their alleged longtime companionship. Her aunt claimed they dated for six years, from when she was just 15, but these revelations surfaced only after her passing.
On February 16, 2025, Kim Sae-ron was found dead at her home, and her death was ruled as suicide, prompting mourning across the country and illuminating the darker side of the entertainment industry. Her struggle resonates with many as stories about bullying and pressure tend to proliferate within the public narrative surrounding idols and actors.
The aftermath of her death saw public figures, including Won Bin, mourning her loss at her funeral on March 17. Attendees reported he was visibly emotional, often wiping tears as he spoke silently with acquaintances. This moment poignantly demonstrated the raw human sentiment behind the glitz of celebrity life, where real emotions often hide behind public façades.
Adding to the multilayered discussions surrounding her demise were the accusations directed at Kim Soo-hyun. Following the rumors of his relationship with Kim Sae-ron and allegations of irresponsibility, many fans expressed their outrage, with netizens stating, "Won Bin was truly incredible. This makes me tear up, but Kim Soo-hyun could not even be patient and instead pressured her with demand letters." These discussions reflect the broader despair felt by fans who were often pitted against the dramatic realities of personal relationships intertwined with public persona.
Text messages from Kim Sae-ron also followed her death, stripping away layers of her experiences by shedding light on her plea for patience amid the demands she faced financially. Rumors about Won Bin's offer to settle her debt continued to swirl on social media, presenting him as the caring figure he had proven to be throughout their connection. An anecdote recounted by netizens pointed out his former willingness to quit smoking during the filming of The Man from Nowhere to safeguard Kim Sae-ron’s health, solidifying his father figure status, even at such early stages of her acting career.
The tragic end of Kim Sae-ron has brought recent attention to mental health discussions surrounding the pressures of fame and the often-unseen burdens carried by public figures. Winners of numerous awards over her promising career, the last few years culminated instead with heartbreak for the talented actress. Her late rise drew enthusiasm, yet her subsequent struggles brought forth questions about the integrity of the entertainment industry she was part of and its unforgiving nature.
Won Bin, who first gained fame as one of South Korea's prominent actors, stands as both the epitome of kindness and compassion amid the shadows of entertainment's glittering façade, securing his place as a figure of warmth across fan circles. He remains known for his admirable backing as demonstrated by his thoughtful gestures toward his late friend's wellbeing, stirring both sadness and nostalgia over the fragility of life and friendship.
The saddening real-life connections between actors are often shared through their performances, but when the curtain falls, the stark realities collide with sheer humanity, prompting audiences to reconsider the burdens borne by their most loved personalities. Fans continue to reflect on the lasting impact these stories forge, reconnecting with their childhood idols, and keeping their memories alive.