Kim Soo-hyun, one of South Korea’s biggest and highest-paid actors, is caught in a major controversy following claims about a past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. The allegations surfaced when Sae-ron’s aunt appeared on the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute, claiming that the two dated for six years starting in 2015. The controversy deepened when it was pointed out that Sae-ron was only 15 at the time, while Soo-hyun was 27, sparking intense debate online.
As the scandal unfolds, an old interview from 2012 has resurfaced, adding fuel to the fire. During a promotional event in Japan for his K-drama The Moon Embracing the Sun, Soo-hyun was asked about working with child actress Kim Yoo-jung, who was 13 at the time. He commented that while he once saw her as a baby, meeting her in person made him realize she was confident and mature. At the time, many dismissed the remark as harmless, but now, in light of the allegations, it has taken on a more troubling meaning. Social media users are questioning whether there were warning signs that went unnoticed.
He then added that he looked forward to working with her as a drama partner in the future.
While his remark went largely unnoticed back then, it’s now being viewed in a completely different light. Many online users have called it unsettling, questioning why an adult man would anticipate working with a child actress as his future co-star in a romantic drama. Some expressed regret for not picking up on the comment earlier, while others pointed out that it feels inappropriate given the current allegations against him.
The backlash against Soo-hyun has only intensified, with growing calls for his upcoming projects and brand deals to be cancelled. Social media is flooded with criticism, and his past statements are being re-examined. With his reputation under serious scrutiny, the controversy surrounding him shows no signs of fading anytime soon.
