Kim Soo Hyun Faces Allegations of ‘Cold Treatment’ Toward Kim Sae Ron

South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun has denied allegations that he dated Kim Sae Ron when she was 15 years old and distanced himself from her during her difficult times.

 

 

Garo Sero Institute’s Claims

On March 10, the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, known for uncovering entertainment industry controversies, sparked heated discussions across Asia with a livestream about Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae Ron, who passed away in February at the age of 25.

During the livestream, an individual claiming to be Kim Sae Ron’s relative alleged that she and Kim Soo Hyun had been in a relationship since 2015—when she was 15 and he was 27—before breaking up in 2021. The channel also posted what was said to be a draft Instagram post written by Kim Sae Ron, in which she reportedly confirmed their six-year relationship. The post further claimed that while working under Gold Medalist Entertainment (from 2020–2022), she worked hard but was not fairly compensated. The company, notably, also manages Kim Soo Hyun.

The livestream further alleged that when Kim Sae Ron faced financial struggles, Kim Soo Hyun lent her 700 million KRW (~$525,000). However, in 2024, as she struggled with economic hardships and worked low-paying jobs, Kim Soo Hyun—through his agency—allegedly demanded repayment and cut ties with her, which reportedly contributed to her emotional distress. The program’s hosts also suggested that Kim Soo Hyun had collaborated with a YouTuber to harass Kim Sae Ron.

Public Reaction & Gold Medalist's Response

Following the broadcast, many netizens demanded an investigation into whether Kim Soo Hyun had dated a minor, with thousands criticizing him for being "heartless." Others remained skeptical of the claims, questioning the credibility and motivations behind the livestream.

On the evening of March 10, Gold Medalist Entertainment issued a statement refuting the allegations, calling them "false and misleading." The agency announced plans to file a lawsuit against Garo Sero Institute for spreading misinformation.

The statement read:
"We mourn the passing of actress Kim Sae Ron and honor her memory. However, the actions of Garo Sero Institute have harmed both her reputation and that of our company. We will take strong legal action against this matter. We urge the public to refrain from spreading false information."

Kim Sae Ron’s Legacy & Past Speculation

Born in 2000, Kim Sae Ron was a renowned child actress with acclaimed performances in The Man from Nowhere, A Brand New Life, and A Girl at My Door. She passed away on February 16, the same day as Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday. According to News1, authorities suspect she took an "extreme measure", though no suicide note was found.

In 2024, Kim Sae Ron posted and later deleted intimate photos with Kim Soo Hyun, which led to speculation that she was trying to capitalize on his fame. Kim Soo Hyun publicly denied any romantic involvement with her.

Kim Soo Hyun’s Career & Status

Kim Soo Hyun debuted in 2007 and rose to stardom through dramas like Dream High, Moon Embracing the Sun, and The Thieves. He became an international sensation in 2014 with My Love from the Star alongside Jun Ji Hyun. According to Chosun Ilbo, he is one of the highest-paid actors in South Korea, commanding massive endorsement deals and top-tier drama salaries.