Kim Soo-hyun Denies Grooming Allegations Amid Controversy
In a surprising press conference held in Seoul, South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has publicly refuted allegations regarding his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, which were suggested to involve grooming while she was underage. The event garnered significant attention on social media and has raised numerous questions regarding the nature of their relationship.
Accompanied by his legal representative, the 37-year-old renowned actor known for his roles in popular K-dramas, conveyed his distress during the press conference. He provided a timeline of his relationship with Kim Sae-ron, affirming that any romantic involvement began only after she had reached adulthood. Kim Sae-ron, recognized for her performances in films such as A Brand New Life (2009) and The Man From Nowhere (2010), tragically passed away on February 16 at the age of 24, with her death confirmed as a suicide on what coincidentally was Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday.
Rumors suggesting a dating history between Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron emerged back in 2024 when an Instagram photo of the two surfaced. However, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, swiftly denied any relationship status. In recent developments, Kim Sae-ron’s family released additional statements along with photos and text messages, alleging that their daughter was involved with Kim Soo-hyun from 2016, which reportedly began when she was only 15, while he was 27.
During the press conference, as reported by The Korea Times, Kim Soo-hyun clarified that he had a consensual relationship with Kim Sae-ron approximately four years ago, lasting about a year. The actor vehemently rejected the allegations claiming that Kim Sae-ron’s family is portraying him as a predator responsible for her tragic death, accusing them of relying on falsified evidence.
“I take responsibility for my actions and am prepared to face criticism,” Kim Soo-hyun remarked. “However, I cannot accept responsibility for actions I did not commit. It’s crucial for me to clarify the facts for those who continue to believe in my integrity.”
He further expressed, “The accusations from her family alleging that I played a role in her death simply because I was her former boyfriend are overwhelming. They are pressuring me to admit to things I did not do.”
As one of South Korea’s most prominent and highest-paid actors, Kim Soo-hyun’s reputation has suffered greatly since these allegations surfaced. Known for starring in globally acclaimed dramas like My Love from the Star (2013–2014), It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), and Queen of Tears (2024), he has faced significant fallout in his career, including the loss of a high-profile brand deal with Prada and the postponement of his anticipated Disney+ series Knock-Off.