Actor files defamation lawsuit amid scandal surrounding late actress’s death and relationship timeline
South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun emotionally denied allegations regarding his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron, rejecting claims that they were involved when she was underage.
The controversy erupted in early 2025 after Kim Sae Ron was found dead, sparking renewed scrutiny on her past ties with Kim Soo Hyun. Allegations from online platforms and statements from her family intensified public interest, pressuring the actor to respond publicly.
At a press conference on Mar. 31 in Seoul, 37-year-old Kim Soo Hyun denied dating Kim Sae Ron when she was underage, confirming the relationship began in 2020 when she was 20. Kim, visibly emotional, expressed regret for staying silent, explaining he was protecting the integrity of others involved, especially during the release of his series Queen of Tears.
Kim dismissed rumors that his agency, Gold Medalist, had pressured Kim Sae Ron into repaying a S$638,670 debt. “We followed legal and administrative procedures,” he stated. A recording was played at the event to support this, revealing a cordial exchange between Gold Medalist and Sae Ron’s last agency, Management Run.
Kim Soo Hyun and his legal team have filed a 12 billion won (S$10.9 million) defamation lawsuit against multiple individuals, including Kim Sae Ron’s family and a political YouTube channel. He dismissed the presented evidence—screenshots of alleged conversations from 2016 and 2018—as ‘fabricated and inconsistent.’
In a controversial statement, Kim Soo Hyun said, “If these so-called messages are real, then take them to the police instead of using them to manipulate public sentiment online.” He further stated, “Turning grief into slander is not justice—it’s exploitation,” a remark that has since divided public opinion.
Kim also took aim at entertainment media, suggesting some platforms were “weaponizing mourning for clicks and controversy.” His comments drew mixed responses, with some defending his stance while others criticized him for being overly combative during an emotionally sensitive case.
Observers at the scene noted that Kim’s tears appeared overly dramatic and inconsistent with his otherwise composed demeanor. Critics online speculated whether the display of emotion was genuine or staged, with some branding it as a “performance” rather than a heartfelt confession.
Despite the emotional press conference, Kim Soo Hyun refused to take any questions from reporters, citing ongoing legal proceedings. While legally strategic, this decision fueled further public skepticism about his sincerity and intent.
Kim Soo Hyun’s emotional address adds further complexity to a high-profile case that has gripped South Korea’s entertainment scene. As investigations continue, his response may influence how the public and brands navigate allegations surrounding public figures amid rising digital scrutiny.
Sources: Mothership (2025), CNN (2025)
Keywords: Kim Soo Hyun, Kim Sae Ron, Gold Medalist, Press Conference, Defamation Lawsuit
