The Korean drama industry is currently in turmoil following controversies surrounding popular actor Kim Soo Hyun. Known for his role in Queen of Tears, Kim has recently faced intense media scrutiny due to his alleged relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. The unfolding scandal has cast a shadow over his upcoming K-drama Knock Off, which has reportedly faced indefinite production delays. The situation escalated further when promotional posters for the show surfaced online, stirring strong reactions from the public.
The controversy is not limited to Kim Soo Hyun alone. The late actress Kim Sae-ron, known for her role in Bloodhounds, had previously been reported to be experiencing financial hardship. After her untimely death, new revelations suggested that she had not been paying her rent herself. Instead, an executive from an education-related company had covered her apartment deposits, shedding light on the support system she quietly relied on during her struggles.
This anonymous benefactor, referred to as “Mr. A,” is said to have provided financial assistance by covering two separate security deposits for Kim Sae-ron’s residences—one in Nonhyeon-dong and another in Seongsu-dong. These revelations emerged after her father contacted her landlord seeking a refund on the deposit, only to learn that the payments had come from someone else. This detail has intensified public curiosity and sympathy toward the late actress.
As the controversy deepens, Knock Off, the new drama starring Kim Soo Hyun and Jo Bo-ah, has been caught in the crossfire. Originally scheduled for release on Disney+, the show’s premiere has been delayed due to the negative publicity surrounding its lead actor. This indefinite postponement has not only frustrated fans but also raised questions about the show’s future and its connection to real-life events.
Adding fuel to the fire, posters for Knock Off began circulating online, sparking widespread speculation. Although many thought they were unofficial or fan-made, the posters later appeared on IMDb, suggesting they might have been released through official channels. This triggered further backlash, with many accusing Disney+ of attempting to capitalize on the ongoing scandal for promotional benefit.
The criticism against Disney+ has grown louder, with fans accusing the platform of exploiting Kim Soo Hyun’s personal troubles to generate buzz around the series. Social media was flooded with comments expressing disappointment and disbelief. One user criticized the strategy as reckless, while another questioned the platform’s ethics in handling sensitive situations for commercial gain.
Meanwhile, other developments have kept the controversy in the spotlight. Claims have surfaced that YouTuber Eun Hyun Jang has exposed the whereabouts of Kim Sae-ron’s mysterious aunt. Additional reports indicate that Kim Soo Hyun might be facing new legal challenges, including lawsuits related to the fallout from this scandal. These updates continue to generate media traction, fueling ongoing speculation.
As the dust refuses to settle, the tangled narrative involving grief, scandal, and the entertainment industry’s handling of controversy continues to evolve. With the release of Knock Off hanging in the balance and Kim Soo Hyun’s public image under scrutiny, the Korean drama landscape is witnessing a moment of reckoning that merges personal tragedy with professional consequences.