Kim Soo Hyun’s ongoing controversy surrounding his alleged relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron has cast a dark shadow over his career. The scandal, which alleges Soo Hyun dated Sae Ron when she was underage, has triggered major professional setbacks. One of the most notable impacts is the delay of his highly anticipated Disney+ series Knock Off, which was initially part of the 2025 release lineup but has now been removed, with its release potentially pushed to 2026.
The backlash has had significant consequences for Soo Hyun’s brand endorsements as well. According to reports, around 25 companies, including global fashion giant Prada, have cut ties with the actor. Prada not only ended its association with him but replaced him with a much younger, 19-year-old American-Korean idol. This brand fallout highlights the level of reputational damage the scandal has inflicted.
Meanwhile, the Knock Off project, in which Soo Hyun stars opposite Jo Bo Ah, has also hit a roadblock. Disney+ has paused the drama’s production indefinitely. This delay is especially concerning given the massive production budget of 60 billion Korean won, making it one of the most expensive Korean dramas ever made. If the platform chooses to cancel or postpone the release further, it could result in major financial losses for producers Arc Media and SLL.
There’s also a looming threat of legal repercussions. If Soo Hyun is convicted or formally held accountable in any capacity related to the scandal, producers could seek substantial compensation from him. While there’s a possibility that the series might find a home on platforms like Netflix or Viki, the uncertainty around its future remains high. The stakes are not just personal but also financial for all involved parties.
Adding another layer to the drama is the role of the controversial YouTube channel GaroSero, which has been accused of using AI-generated content in its coverage of Soo Hyun’s case. Allegations include leaking manipulated audio and misinformation as supposed evidence. As this AI tampering came to light, public sentiment began to shift slightly in Soo Hyun’s favor, casting doubt on the validity of the initial claims.
Although Disney+ has officially removed Knock Off from its 2025 content lineup, insiders suggest the platform is simply waiting for the right moment to release it, possibly aiming for 2026. Posters for the drama had already been released on IMDb earlier this year, building anticipation. The series stars Soo Hyun as a young man drawn into the criminal underworld and features a strong ensemble cast including Jo Bo Ah, Kwon Nara, Yoo Jae Myung, and Kim Hye Eun. Whether the drama will eventually see the light of day now depends on both the legal proceedings and shifting public opinion.