South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has publicly denied allegations that he was in a relationship with actress Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor.
In an emotional press conference on Monday, the 37-year-old star tearfully stated, “I can’t admit to something I didn’t do,” refuting claims that have shaken the Korean entertainment industry since Kim Sae-ron’s tragic passing in February.
The controversy stems from two major allegations: first, that Kim Soo-hyun dated Kim Sae-ron when she was just 15, and second, that his agency pressured her to repay a debt before her death.
These claims emerged after a YouTube channel released videos and photos suggesting a six-year relationship that began when Sae-ron was underage. Her family’s attorney further fueled speculation by presenting chat history purportedly from 2016, when she was 16.
Kim Soo-hyun, best known for his roles in My Love from the Star, Secretly, Greatly, and Netflix’s Queen of Tears, admitted to dating Kim Sae-ron but firmly stated that their relationship only occurred between 2019 and 2020—when she was an adult. “Except for the fact that both of us were actors, our relationship was just like that of any other ordinary couple,” he explained.
During the airing of Queen of Tears, Kim Sae-ron had posted—and later deleted—a photo of them together. Addressing why he had previously denied the relationship, Kim explained, “I had so much to protect as its lead actor. What would have happened if I had admitted to a year-long relationship? What would happen to the actors, the staff who were working overnight, and the production team who had everything staked on that project?”
Kim also strongly refuted claims that his agency, GoldMedalist, had pressured Kim Sae-ron over a debt linked to her 2022 drunk-driving incident. To support his stance, he played a recorded phone call indicating that the agency had given her time to respond regarding the financial matter.
The accusations have had severe consequences for Kim’s career. Luxury brand Prada and Korean cosmetics company Dinto have cut ties with the actor, and a Disney+ production starring Kim has been put on hold, according to Yonhap news agency.
In response, Kim’s legal team has taken legal action, filing criminal complaints against Kim Sae-ron’s family and the YouTube channel that initially published the allegations. They have also filed a civil lawsuit seeking KRW 12 billion (approximately $8.1 million) in damages.
Kim Sae-ron was once regarded as one of South Korea’s most promising young actresses before her career took a downturn due to her 2022 drunk-driving incident. Her passing in February has left the industry in shock, with her family and fans mourning the loss of a bright talent.
Following the press conference, social media was flooded with reactions. A user on X shared a picture of him crying and tweeted, “Bro thinks this is Queen of Tears Season 2 or what? Do we look dumb enough to believe his fake tears? He can cry in jail.” Another wrote, “Not #KimSooHyun crying in public, asking for mercy while denying all accusations—exactly as expected. I see no difference between his crying scene in a drama and real life. ALL FAKE.”
The controversy surrounding Kim Soo-hyun continues to develop, leaving many questions unanswered. As the legal battle unfolds, the truth behind these allegations remains to be seen.
