As of May 29, 2025, the Seoul judiciary has yet to issue a formal ruling regarding the allegations against actor Kim Soo-hyun concerning his alleged relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Despite public pressure and ongoing legal disputes, the court has remained silent, neither confirming nor dismissing the claims that have significantly impacted the actor’s career and public image.
The controversy intensified following a press conference on March 17, 2025, where Kim Sae-ron’s family presented materials suggesting a romantic relationship between Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron began when she was 15 years old. These materials included personal photographs and handwritten letters. Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, refuted these claims, stating that the relationship commenced in 2019 when Kim Sae-ron was legally an adult. The agency also announced legal action against the YouTube channel HoverLab and individuals disseminating the alleged false information .
In response to the allegations, Kim Soo-hyun filed a criminal complaint against HoverLab’s operator and an individual claiming to be Kim Sae-ron’s aunt for distributing unauthorized photographs and spreading false information. The agency emphasized that the materials were taken during a period when both parties were adults and that their release constituted a violation of privacy and defamation .
The legal disputes have had tangible repercussions on Kim Soo-hyun’s professional engagements. Several brands, including Prada and Dinto, have terminated endorsement deals with the actor amid the controversy. Industry insiders estimate that Kim Soo-hyun may face up to $13.8 million in penalties due to breaches in brand advertisement contracts .
Public opinion remains divided. While some fans have organized support campaigns, including filing defamation complaints against individuals spreading the allegations, others question the actor’s integrity. The situation has sparked broader discussions about the treatment of celebrities in South Korea and the impact of online harassment .
Legal experts suggest that prosecuting the case may be challenging due to the timing of the alleged events and the laws in effect at that time. Even though Kim Soo-hyun’s accused actions are punishable under the current Criminal Act, laws protecting minors were weaker at the time the alleged crime took place .
As the legal proceedings continue, the Seoul court’s lack of a definitive ruling leaves the matter unresolved. Observers await further developments, hoping for clarity and resolution in a case that has captivated public attention and raised important questions about privacy, defamation, and the responsibilities of public figures.
In the meantime, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency has stated its commitment to pursuing all necessary legal avenues to protect the actor’s reputation and to challenge the spread of what it deems to be false and defamatory information. The entertainment industry and the public at large continue to monitor the situation closely, anticipating the potential implications for celebrity culture and legal standards in South Korea.