Controversial YouTuber and ex-reporter Lee Jin Ho has once again stirred conversation with his involvement in the dispute surrounding actor Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae Ron. Lee has positioned himself as a fact-checker, openly disputing claims made by Sae Ron’s family—particularly the assertion that Soo Hyun had a relationship with her while she was underage. Using his platform, Lee has shared video content that introduces evidence he believes contradicts the narrative presented by Sae Ron’s relatives.
In a recent video, Lee alleged that the romantic relationship between Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron didn’t begin until 2019, by which point she was already legally considered an adult. He claimed to possess key evidence from Sae Ron’s mobile device, citing various photographs—including selfies and couple pictures—that surfaced online. While her family stated these images originated in 2015 or 2016, Lee argued that certain technical aspects in one of the images directly challenge this timeline.
He specifically drew attention to a mirror selfie in which both individuals are seen wearing identical jackets. According to Lee, this photo was captured on an iPhone 11, which was only released in 2019. Therefore, he insisted the image could not have possibly been taken in 2016, as her family claimed. He also pointed out that while some might try to date photos based on clothing or accessories, such methods are unreliable when technological timestamps are available.
Lee has continuously uploaded videos aimed at debunking statements made by both Sae Ron’s family and HoverLab CEO Kim Se Eui. At one point, he even alleged that Sae Ron had married an American citizen and released photos of her with other men. These claims were intended to suggest that both she and Kim Soo Hyun had other romantic involvements, thereby calling into question the credibility of the dating timeline offered by her family.
Despite facing legal restrictions, including a court order forbidding him from discussing matters related to Kim Sae Ron, Lee has shown no signs of backing down. A legal case earlier this year resulted in a ruling against him, prohibiting him from creating or posting further content regarding Sae Ron. Still, he has continued releasing updates and videos, effectively defying the court’s decision.
Lee’s refusal to comply with the court’s directive has ignited a broader ethical debate. While he insists that his only goal is to present the truth and challenge misinformation, many observers criticize his methods. His disregard for legal decisions and the sensitive nature of the case have raised serious concerns about the ethical boundaries of independent digital journalism.
The controversy continues to divide public sentiment. Supporters of Lee argue that he is performing a necessary service by questioning questionable narratives and demanding evidence. Critics, on the other hand, believe his actions cross the line into harassment, especially in light of the tragic circumstances surrounding Kim Sae Ron and the legal implications of his videos.
As this scandal unfolds, it highlights the growing tension between freedom of expression on digital platforms and the need to protect individual privacy and uphold legal boundaries. Whether Lee Jin Ho is seen as a whistleblower or a provocateur, his actions have undeniably intensified public interest in a case that remains unresolved and contentious.