On March 13, 2025, news broke that renowned South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun will proceed with filming for MBC’s anticipated show Good Day, despite the surrounding turmoil regarding his alleged relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Reports from Ten Asia reveal that both Kim Soo-hyun and his agency did not communicate any intent to withdraw from the production, nor did the production team request his departure.
A source close to Kim Soo-hyun indicated that he has chosen to honor his filming commitments, which were arranged well in advance. His team reaffirmed that the production staff of Good Day continues to trust him and has been patiently awaiting his participation. Furthermore, the filming for his upcoming Disney+ drama Knock Off is also progressing without delays.
However, the announcement sparked a wave of backlash on social media, with many netizens voicing their displeasure over his decision to maintain public engagements amidst serious allegations. One social media user, @clover_n_star, expressed outrage, stating:
“No shame, No remorse. The audacity of this man & the whole Korean entertainment industry is just… I have no words for this. Let’s boycott him & the show internationally.”
In response to the unfolding situation, the production team of Good Day confirmed his scheduled participation but indicated that they had adjusted his filming commitments. Kim Soo-hyun’s side emphasized:
“Kim Soo-hyun and his agency have never notified each other that they would not be attending the recording of ‘Good Day’, and he has never been asked by the production team to step down. I understand that ‘Good Day’ also trusts Kim Soo-hyun and is waiting for him. Kim Soo-hyun is also keeping his promise because this was a schedule that was planned a long time ago.”
As the backlash intensified, more individuals called for a boycott of both Kim Soo-hyun and the Good Day production. Comments flooded in, including:
“It’s insane that none of these news are affecting him at all. Like how powerful is he? BOYCOTT MBC, BOYCOTT KIM SOOHYUN, BOYCOTT GOOD DAY,”stated one user.
“I am side-eyeing every cast member of Good Day who chose to shoot with him. Abandoning morals for so-called friendship and viewership. The whole industry backing him up, let every one of them fall to the lowest pit!”another person added.
“I guess bye-bye to the show…. Just one person not watching won’t hurt,”commented a user.
“He’s vile, but I am also side-eyeing everyone involved in the show for allowing him to continue,”one individual remarked.
Some social media users have expressed concerns about the discomfort this situation may cause the remaining cast, suggesting that Kim Soo-hyun should have voluntarily stepped away from the project.
“How does it even work? He should’ve just rejected and left the show; for sure, the cast probably feels uncomfortable. Let them film in peace! What a douchebag! Also, screw you MBC for letting him join again,”one user stated.
“He should have voluntarily withdrawn from filming as soon as the scandal erupted. Being a top male star sure seems beneficial,”noted another.
“How is it not yet his downfall?”wondered another netizen.
For those unfamiliar with the situation, Kim Sae-ron was tragically found deceased in her apartment on February 16, 2025, coinciding with Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday. The controversy surrounding their alleged relationship intensified following a report from the Garosero Research Institute.
Understanding the Context: The Kim Sae-ron Case and Kim Soo-hyun’s Subsequent Struggles
The allegations surfaced following claims from the Garosero Research Institute, accusing Kim Soo-hyun of being in a long-term relationship with Kim Sae-ron, reportedly starting when she was just 15 years old. The investigation further alleged that after their breakup, the actor’s agency, Gold Medalist, pressured her for repayment of 700 million KRW (approximately $483,000), despite her financial difficulties.
Reports indicate that Kim Sae-ron attempted to contact Kim Soo-hyun prior to her tragic passing but did not receive a reply.
As public outrage swelled, Ten Asia reported that Kim Soo-hyun is struggling to cope with the evolving situation. A source close to the actor noted that he appears “completely out of it”and often has staff by his side, saying:
“Kim Soo-hyun is having a really hard time. He’s so out of it that the staff is sticking right next to him. Kim Soo-hyun is going to each of his coworkers and staff to apologize.”
The scrutiny intensifies despite Kim Soo-hyun’s insistence that the accusations are groundless. The Garosero Research Institute continues to release purported evidence, including text messages from Kim Sae-ron and photos of the two together. Additionally, resurfaced statements from the actor regarding relationships and preferences have further fueled the backlash against him.