On March 27, 2025, Pannchoa reported that actor Kim Soo-hyun may face substantial penalties exceeding $123 million if Disney opts to cancel the production of his upcoming series, Knock Off.
This action thriller, which features Kim Soo-hyun in a lead role, has encountered an indefinite production delay due to a scandal involving his previous relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron.
Controversy Surrounding Kim Sae-ron’s Passing
The controversy emerged shortly after Kim Sae-ron’s untimely death in February 2025. Speculations surfaced regarding a romantic involvement between her and Kim Soo-hyun during a period when she was still a minor.
A press conference in March 2025, conducted by Kim Sae-ron’s family and represented by lawyer Bu Ji-seok, unveiled alleged private messages between the two actors dating back to June 2016. Notably, this was just a month before Kim Sae-ron’s 16th birthday, while Kim Soo-hyun was 28.
The content of these messages was interpreted by her family as indicative of a potential romantic relationship or inappropriate conduct. Translations of the messages portrayed exchanges that raised alarms about their nature, with some asserting they hinted at a sexual relationship. Bu Ji-seok has requested an apology from Kim Soo-hyun to the family of the late actress.
Agency’s Stance and Legal Actions
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, has vehemently denied any allegations regarding the nature of their relationship, asserting that their romantic involvement did not occur until the summer of 2019, well after Kim Sae-ron had reached the legal age of consent.
In response to the unfolding situation, the agency has escalated the issue by reportedly initiating legal action against Kim Sae-ron’s family for disseminating what they claim to be false information about their timeline.
Adding to the drama, Kim Sae-ron’s ex-boyfriend, referred to as “Mr. K,”has publicly contested claims made by her family, suggesting that her personal challenges were more connected to family neglect than to her relationship with Kim Soo-hyun.
Mr. K has allegedly provided text messages from Kim Sae-ron, as well as from a man she ostensibly married in secret, further complicating the narrative.
Disney’s Concerns and Financial Implications
This complex backdrop is now under Disney’s close scrutiny concerning the production of Knock Off. Sources indicate that the company is seriously concerned about how this resurgence of controversy might tarnish both the series and Disney’s overall reputation.
The possible penalty of over $123 million for Kim Soo-hyun is speculated to be associated with a breach of conduct clause within his contract for the series. Such morality clauses are common in contracts for high-profile talent, offering the production company rights to terminate agreements or impose financial penalties for behaviors deemed damaging to the brand or the project.
The specific language of these clauses varies but is aimed at safeguarding the substantial investments and public image of all parties involved.
Although Disney representatives have refrained from commenting officially on the suspension of production or the possible financial penalties, unverified sources close to the project indicate that the company is approaching this situation with great caution, evaluating all potential strategies to protect its investment in Knock Off.