On March 25, 2025, Kbizoom brought to light a YouTube video by Lee Jin-ho, in which he alleged that the late actress Kim Sae-ron requested 5 million won from her agency, Gold Medalist, to cover hospital expenses. The video was provocatively titled:
“Kim Sae-ron’s Final Recording—The Heartbreaking Truth Behind Her Hospital Bills.”
In this video, Jin-ho presented a recording of a conversation purportedly between Kim Sae-ron and a representative from Gold Medalist, revealing that the actress struggled to pay her hospital bills following a self-harm incident that occurred in November 2024.
According to Jin-ho, Kim Sae-ron opted to seek financial assistance from her agency rather than her parents, wishing to spare them from unnecessary worry. The 5 million won was registered as a loan after Gold Medalist allegedly settled her hospital bills. Jin-ho remarked:
“I previously reported that Kim Sae-ron attempted to take her own life last year, leading to hospital bills of approximately 5 million won (~$3,400 USD) per visit. During that time, she had no funds, prompting her agency to cover the costs, which were subsequently recorded as a loan.”
Moreover, he pointed out that Article 53 of South Korea’s National Health Insurance Act stipulates that medical insurance does not cover injuries resulting from self-harm. The recorded conversation implies that Kim Sae-ron allegedly borrowed 5 million won (roughly $3,402) from Gold Medalist to address her medical expenses.
Additionally, Allkpop highlighted that Jin-ho expressed skepticism regarding the amount charged by the hospital, stating that even emergency treatment typically ranges between 400,000 to 1 million won (around $272 to $680). He noted his astonishment at witnessing a hospital bill totaling 5 million won.
Simultaneously, Kbizoom reported Gold Medalist’s assertion that Kim Sae-ron had repaid her debt to the agency through her work prior to her tragic passing in February 2025.
Kim Sae-ron’s Untimely Death and Controversies Surrounding Kim Soo-hyun
On February 16, 2025, Kim Sae-ron was discovered deceased in her apartment in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. Authorities confirmed that the cause of death was suicide, creating ripples of shock in the entertainment community.
The actress was recognized for her performances in films such as A Brand New Life, The Man from Nowhere, and the series Bloodhounds. In 2022, she faced a DUI charge, resulting in her decision to step away from public life.
In the wake of her death, allegations emerged claiming that Kim Soo-hyun, the star from Queen of Tears, had dated Kim Sae-ron when she was underage. Commentary from the YouTube channel Garosero and the late actress’s aunt suggested this relationship may have contributed to her emotional turmoil and tragic end.
Mr. K defended Kim Soo-hyun, asserting that the actress’s passing was unrelated to him and that any prior relationship did not contribute to her mental challenges or financial struggles.
These accusations were fueled by statements from Garosero and Kim Sae-ron’s family, who released purported evidence showing Kim Sae-ron pleading for assistance from Kim Soo-hyun. Furthermore, Gold Medalist demanded that Kim Sae-ron return 700 million won (approximately $476,362) and proceeded with legal actions.
The family alleged that Kim Sae-ron attempted to reach out to Kim Soo-hyun to ascertain if the very actions of Gold Medalist were sanctioned by Soo-hyun. However, they contend that Kim Soo-hyun ceased all communication, which was exacerbated by the agency’s legal warnings against attempting further contact with its artists.
According to India Times, Mr. K noted that the late actress faced emotional strain due to her family’s lack of support, recounting scenarios where they seemingly distanced themselves from her during her struggles.
The unfolding drama has had significant repercussions for Kim Soo-hyun’s professional life, despite various clarifications surrounding the accusations.