On March 12, 2025, South Korean publication Dispatch brought to light a troubling financial dispute involving actress Kim Sae-ron and her former agency, Gold Medalist. Legal documents reveal that in March 2024, the agency issued a formal notice demanding repayment of a significant sum amounting to 686.4 million KRW, which she reportedly borrowed on November 22, 2022, with a maturity date set for December 31, 2023. Due to her failure to repay the debt, the agency warned of possible civil and criminal actions unless payment was made promptly, leading to a ballooned total claim of approximately 700 million KRW.
This alarming news surfaced shortly after Kim Sae-ron tragically died by suicide on February 16, 2025—a date that also marked actor Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday, which drew further public interest regarding their past interactions. Prior to her passing, Kim Sae-ron appeared to struggle with mounting financial pressures, which included the responsibility of supporting her family.
Initially among the first celebrities to join Gold Medalist upon its inception, Kim Sae-ron might have presumed her issues with repayment were resolved following her departure from the agency. However, the sudden resurgence of their claims left her visibly distressed.
In March 2024, Kim reached out to Kim Soo-hyun in a moment of anxiety, relaying her urgency regarding the legal notice and impending lawsuit. She expressed her fears of potential court proceedings and sought more time to address the matter. Regrettably, no response came from Kim Soo-hyun.
Subsequently, she shared an older photograph with him on social media amid the popularity of his drama, Queen of Tears, but quickly deleted the post following public criticism.
Insights and Developments from Dispatch on Kim Sae-ron & Kim Soo-hyun’s Controversy
As speculation mounted, Dispatch disclosed that Kim Sae-ron intended to address the financial situation publicly. When the media outlet sought her comments, she declined, indicating she needed time to process her emotions and had no intention of making a public statement at that moment. Dispatch documented their communication, revealing that while she initially seemed open to discussion, she later expressed her desire for privacy regarding the ongoing situation.
D: “I contacted you after seeing the news, and you said you would make a statement. Should I wait for your statement?”
Sae-ron: “No, I didn’t say I was going to take a stance. I think I was distorted to say I thought it needed to be sorted out. I would like you to refrain from publishing the content of the current conversation. I am leaving a reply as a courtesy to you for contacting me.”
D: “Oh, I saw the news and thought you had something to say! Yes, yes, I won’t make it into an article! Don’t worry! If you really have something to say, please contact me!!”
Sae-ron: “Yes, thank you:) have a nice day.”
Dispatch’s investigation further revealed inconsistencies in how Gold Medalist managed this legal conflict. While initially providing a stern notice regarding the claimed debt, the agency later asserted that they never intended to pursue the repayment actively. This contradictory stance deepened concerns, particularly as Kim Sae-ron appeared to suffer immensely under the weight of this demand.
In an effort to mitigate her financial difficulties, she reportedly took steps to resolve various debts, including liquidating assets and leveraging prior investments. Despite her attempts, Gold Medalist proceeded with legal action, prompting a cycle of escalating stress.
After Kim Sae-ron’s death, Dispatch spoke with her neighbors, who reported seeing her in distress during her last days. One observer recalled witnessing her crying alone, suggesting she was facing significant emotional turmoil.
Interestingly, one neighbor, unaware of her celebrity status, perceived her simply as a young woman navigating urban life, further emphasizing the disconnect between her public image and personal struggles.
In conclusion, Dispatch’s findings renew scrutiny around Gold Medalist’s contradictory claims and Kim Sae-ron’s desperate circumstances. The lack of communication from Kim Soo-hyun, despite their historical connection, only adds to the intrigue surrounding this tragic situation.