The South Korean entertainment industry has recently been engulfed in a controversy involving the K-drama, Queen of Tears fame actor KIM SOO-HYUN and the late actress KIM SAE-RON. Allegations of an underage relationship, brand dissociations, and legal disputes have thrust both figures into the spotlight, prompting widespread public discourse.
Image Source- Screen Rant
Image Source- India Today
Allegations of an Underage Relationship?
The controversy began when claims surfaced suggesting that Kim Soo-hyun, 37, had been involved in a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron, who tragically passed away in February 2025 at the mere age of 24. Relatives of Kim Sae-ron alleged that the relationship commenced when she was a minor, around 15 years old. A photo depicting Kim Soo-hyun kissing Kim Sae-ron on the cheek during his mandatory military service between 2017 and 2018, when she was 17 or 18, further fueled these allegations.
Image Source- India Today
Repercussions on Professional Endeavors
In the wake of these allegations, several prominent brands severed ties with Kim Soo-hyun as their ambassador. The Luxury Fashion House PRADA and South Korean cosmetic brand DINTO terminated their collaborations with the actor, citing the controversy as the deciding factor for their decisions. PRADA confirmed the mutual end of their collaboration without further details, meanwhile DINTO stated that substantial grounds rendered the fulfillment of the advertising contract unfeasible.
Image Source- aigoo.tv (Instagram)
Agency's Response and Legal ActionsKim Soo-hyun's agency, Gold Medalist, has staunchly denied the allegations, asserting that the actor was not in a relationship with Kim Sae-ron during her minor years and that he has been unfairly linked to her death. The agency has filed a criminal lawsuit against individuals disseminating defamatory content, including the operator of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute and members of Kim Sae-ron's family, accusing them of distributing private photos in violation of local laws against sexual crimes.
The Garo Sero Research Institute (Youtube)
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Impact on Kim Soo-hyun's Acting Career
The scandal has significantly impacted Kim Soo-hyun's professional endeavors. The release of his anticipated drama "Knock Off" was put on hold amid the controversy, casting uncertainty over its future airing but is now set to release in April 2025. Despite these setbacks, Kim Soo-hyun was scheduled to proceed with a fan meet-and-greet event in Taiwan on March 30, marking his first official appearance since the allegations emerged, which has now been postponed due to safety concerns.
Image Source- GQ India
Public and Media Reactions
The public has had mixed reactions regarding this controversy, with some expressing disappointment and others advocating for due process. Media outlets have delved into the broader implications of the scandal, discussing topics such as the pressures within the entertainment industry and the complexities surrounding relationships between public figures. The controversy has also sparked discussions about the ethical responsibilities of media and fans in handling sensitive information related to celebrities.
As the situation continues to unfold, it serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate dynamics within the entertainment industry and the profound impact of public perception on the careers and personal lives of artists.
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