Seoul, South Korea – In a dramatic press conference held on Monday, acclaimed South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun vehemently denied allegations that he engaged in an underage relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, addressing a controversy that has rocked the entertainment industry.
The actor, visibly emotional and breaking into tears, expressed regret for the pain caused by the scandal, while firmly denying claims that he ever dated Kim Sae-ron during her minor years.
At the press conference, which took place in a Seoul hotel, Kim Soo-hyun recounted the difficult months he had endured under intense media scrutiny. “I am truly sorry for the distress this controversy has caused many people,” he said, adding, “I also feel immense sorrow that the deceased cannot rest in peace.”
The actor clarified that while he and Kim Sae-ron did share a personal relationship for approximately one year five years ago, the relationship occurred only when she was legally an adult. He categorically refuted assertions that he had any involvement with her during her underage years.
The allegations first emerged from a YouTube channel, Hoverlab, which released a video claiming that the actor began dating Kim Sae-ron when she was merely 15 years old—a claim bolstered by purported evidence and testimonies from the late actress’ family.
According to reports from Reuters, Kim Sae-ron, who was 24 at the time of her untimely death, had experienced severe personal and professional difficulties following a drunk driving incident in 2022.
The family’s accusations, which have since ignited heated debates on social media platforms across South Korea and China, also allege that Kim Soo-hyun exploited her vulnerability during her financial hardships.
During the press conference, Kim Soo-hyun’s legal team announced plans to pursue action against those responsible for disseminating what they described as “false and defamatory claims.”
The actor’s agency, Gold Medalist, reiterated its stance that the relationship between Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron spanned only a brief period after she reached adulthood, and vehemently denied any suggestion that the late actress was ever coerced or financially exploited by the actor.
“It is simply not true that I had any involvement with Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor,” Kim stated, emphasizing that the rumors had been fabricated to malign his reputation.
The controversy has already had significant repercussions beyond the courtroom. Several high-profile brands have distanced themselves from the actor amid mounting public outcry.
Luxury fashion house Prada and South Korean cosmetic brand Dinto have both terminated their endorsement contracts with Kim Soo-hyun, citing “substantial grounds” and reputational risks associated with the scandal.
The fallout from these severed ties underscores the broader impact that personal controversies can have on an actor’s commercial relationships, particularly in an industry as competitive and image-conscious as South Korea’s.
Social media reaction to the press conference has been swift and polarizing. On platforms like Sina Weibo and X (formerly Twitter), many users expressed disbelief over what they described as “crocodile tears” and staged apologies, while others came to his defense, arguing that the relentless media coverage had taken a toll on his mental well-being.
Support trucks with banners reading “We Stand With Kim Soo-hyun” and “Truth Matters” were spotted outside the press conference venue, reflecting a divided public sentiment over the scandal.
Industry insiders note that this controversy could have long-lasting effects on Kim Soo-hyun’s career. Known for his roles in iconic dramas such as My Love from the Star and Queen of Tears, the actor has been a beloved figure across Asia.
However, as the allegations continue to circulate, several upcoming projects, including the highly anticipated drama Knock-Off on Disney+, have experienced schedule delays, and fan events have been canceled or postponed.
The escalating legal and reputational battle now places the actor at a critical juncture, where public perception and career prospects hang in the balance.
Legal experts suggest that the outcome of the pending lawsuits and the veracity of the evidence released by Kim Sae-ron’s family will be pivotal in determining the future of Kim Soo-hyun’s career. For now, the actor remains defiant.
“I have been unfairly linked to a tragedy that is not of my making,” he stated. “I will continue to clear my name through every legal channel available to me.”
As the controversy unfolds, both the media and the public await further developments that may either corroborate or disprove the explosive claims. With legal proceedings set to intensify and additional evidence expected to surface, the entertainment industry remains on high alert, closely monitoring the fallout of one of the most contentious scandals in recent South Korean history.
