South Korea is currently grappling with a surge in online abuse involving cyberbullying, defamation, and the unethical use of artificial intelligence, particularly within its entertainment sphere. The latest scandal surrounding actor Kim Soo Hyun has heightened public concern. Fabricated AI-generated material falsely accused him of dating Kim Sae Ron when she was underage, sparking outrage among fans and netizens who condemned the manipulation of technology for character assassination.
The controversy gained momentum due to the involvement of the Garosero Research Institute, a YouTube channel known for spreading inflammatory content. Their accusations against Kim Soo Hyun have drawn intense criticism, leading the actor to take legal action. He has filed complaints against both the Garosero team and Kim Sae Ron’s family, citing reasons such as defamation, harassment, and persistent stalking, signaling his refusal to remain silent against such invasions of privacy.
The resurgence of such damaging behavior recalls the tragic demise of actor Lee Sun Kyun in 2023. Known for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, Lee was a victim of prolonged slander and coercion that allegedly contributed to his death by suicide. Although several individuals responsible for tormenting him were eventually arrested, the tragedy left an indelible impact on public consciousness.
In response to growing concerns over online defamation and manipulated content, South Korean citizens have rallied behind a proposed legislative measure known as the “Gaseyeon Prevention Act.” The bill is designed to combat malicious rumors, misinformation generated through AI, and cyber harassment. While the measure is especially critical for protecting public figures, it also aims to safeguard the general population from similar abuse.
Public support for the Gaseyeon Prevention Act is rising swiftly. A petition supporting the law must gather 50,000 signatures within 30 days, and within a short time, it has already garnered over 15,000 endorsements. This surge highlights the public’s growing intolerance of unchecked digital misconduct and their desire for legal frameworks that hold perpetrators accountable.
Adding to the discourse, YouTuber Lee Jin Ho has come forward with claims that Kim Sae Ron was not underage during her alleged relationship with Kim Soo Hyun, presenting evidence to counter the rumors. This development adds complexity to the issue, further emphasizing the need for factual accuracy and ethical responsibility in reporting, especially when AI-generated content is involved.
The psychological damage inflicted by platforms like Garosero has also come under scrutiny. Critics argue that these platforms contribute to serious mental health crises, including suicides among celebrities. Prominent public figures, including singer Kim Gun Mo, TV personality Park Soo Hong, actress Han Ye Seul, and YouTuber Tzuyang, have voiced their support for stricter laws and urged collective action against digital hostility.
Ultimately, the scandal involving Kim Soo Hyun has become a catalyst for a broader conversation about internet regulation and ethical technology use. South Korea now stands at a crossroads where its citizens, lawmakers, and public figures are pushing for a more secure digital space. The demand is clear: immediate legal reforms to curb the spread of AI-powered lies and online bullying are not just necessary—they are overdue.