Actor Kim Soo Hyun is currently grappling with serious consequences following explosive allegations tied to the late actress Kim Sae Ron. Accusations have emerged suggesting he was romantically involved with her during her underage years and that he may have financially exploited her. The controversy has triggered significant public backlash and is now beginning to impact his professional relationships, particularly with commercial brands.
One of the most notable repercussions involves a Taiwanese convenience store chain that recently severed ties with Kim Soo Hyun. The company cited severe reputational harm and financial damage as reasons for the termination. The fallout from this decision includes the cessation of product production and marketing that featured the actor.
According to reports from Taiwan’s Sanli News Network, the firm made a formal announcement detailing their decision to cut off all collaborations with the actor. The statement emphasized that the company faced a massive financial blow due to unsold inventory and cancelled marketing campaigns, amounting to roughly 130 million TWD—equivalent to around 6 billion KRW or 4.3 million USD.
The company also revealed that it is exploring legal action against Kim Soo Hyun. With the extent of the financial losses incurred, the possibility of filing for compensation is being thoroughly reviewed. This could potentially lead to yet another lawsuit for the embattled actor, adding to the growing list of legal challenges he is facing.
This development follows a troubling pattern where various brands and agencies have distanced themselves from Kim Soo Hyun. Endorsements and partnerships have been revoked in light of the controversy, significantly tarnishing the actor’s marketability and public image. This latest incident could mark one of the most financially damaging setbacks for him so far.
In addition to the business repercussions, law enforcement authorities in South Korea have provided updates on the legal aspects of the case. According to Allkpop, a press briefing was held where Park Hyun Soo, acting chief of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, spoke on the investigation’s progress.
He clarified that two separate legal complaints are currently being investigated. One case, submitted by Kim Sae Ron’s representatives, involves allegations of violating the Child Welfare Act. This case is under the jurisdiction of the Women and Juvenile Crime Division of the Gangnam Police Station.
Simultaneously, Kim Soo Hyun has filed his own complaint, alleging that AI-generated content was used to manipulate public perception of him. This case is being handled separately by the Criminal Investigation Division of the same station. As investigations unfold, both the legal and public scrutiny surrounding the actor continue to intensify.