New allegations have surfaced involving popular South Korean actor Kim Soo-Hyun and his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-Ron. The controversy intensified following the release of an audio tape shared by the Garo Sero Institute at a press conference in Seoul, where legal representatives of Kim Sae-Ron’s family were present.
In the audio recording, a voice said to be Kim Sae-Ron can be heard discussing an intimate relationship that reportedly began when she was in the 8th grade. The emotional conversation suggests that she may have felt manipulated at the time, and a concerned acquaintance in the recording expresses anger over her experience.
Kim Sae-Ron mentions in the recording that very few people knew about the relationship, and those who did often blamed her for it rather than questioning the older partner’s conduct. Her comments suggest feelings of betrayal and misunderstanding from others around her during that time.
In response to the public outcry, Kim Soo-Hyun held a press conference to deny any wrongdoing. He claimed that the romantic relationship in question happened about five years ago, long after Sae-Ron was no longer a minor. He clarified that their relationship lasted around a year and ended well before the airing of his hit drama Queen of Tears.
Addressing why he had initially denied knowing her, Kim explained that his professional obligations as the lead actor of a major show prevented him from discussing personal matters that could have disrupted the production or affected colleagues.
Further denying rumors, Kim stated that his agency never harassed Kim Sae-Ron over debts or pressured her in any way. He emphasized that apart from their shared profession, their relationship was like any other normal couple’s, and they eventually parted ways for personal reasons.
The allegations have had serious consequences for Kim Soo-Hyun’s career. Reports suggest that several of his upcoming projects have been put on indefinite hold, and major brand endorsements have also been terminated as the controversy gains traction.
This situation has sparked widespread debate about celebrity accountability, relationships with minors, and how the entertainment industry handles such issues. As public opinion continues to shift, fans and critics alike await further updates or legal action regarding the matter.