Priyanka Tiwari
Share
In a recent viral video, Kim Soo Hyun tearfully addressed the tragic death of his ex-girlfriend Kim Sae Ron, who died by suicide on February 16, 2025. During a press conference, Kim confirmed their past relationship but denied allegations that she was underage during the time they were involved.
The controversy was fueled by Kim Sae Ron’s aunt, who claimed the pair had been dating since 2015, when Sae Ron was 15 and Kim Soo Hyun was 27. These claims were first made public by YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute on March 10, 2025.
Relationship Timeline and Key Events
According to the family, the relationship lasted from 2015 to July 2021. Sae Ron reportedly joined Gold Medalist, Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, in 2019 and was involved in activities such as coaching new talent. However, her family alleged she was not fairly compensated for her contributions.
Following a drunk driving incident in May 2022 that resulted in damages of 700 million KRW, Gold Medalist initially covered the cost but later sought repayment. The legal notice reportedly caused additional strain, with Sae Ron pleading for more time to pay via text in 2024.
Rising Tensions and Leaked Communications
Kim Sae Ron’s messages pleading for leniency were leaked online, including a deleted Instagram photo of the two actors, which reignited dating rumors. Despite these, both Kim and his agency denied a romantic link at that time.
After her passing, Garo Sero Research published a photo of Kim Soo Hyun kissing Sae Ron on the cheek in 2016 and released a 2024 message from her pleading for help with debt repayment. These claims led to renewed criticism and speculation.
Agency Confirms Relationship Timeline
Gold Medalist eventually confirmed that Kim and Sae Ron were romantically involved from summer 2019 to fall 2020, stating that their relationship began after she reached adulthood. The agency also emphasized that they fulfilled their legal responsibilities regarding her financial issues and wrote off her remaining debt in December 2023.
Prada Severs Ties, Leaked Photo Triggers Legal Action
Luxury brand Prada terminated its collaboration with Kim Soo Hyun amid growing backlash. Additionally, a private semi-nude photo of Kim was leaked, prompting a criminal lawsuit against Garo Sero Research Institute and members of Kim Sae Ron’s family for violating privacy and distributing explicit content without consent.
Condolence Payment Withdrawn
Gold Medalist initially intended to offer a condolence payment to Sae Ron’s family. However, the agency retracted the offer following the photo leak, fearing it could be misinterpreted as a settlement or an admission of guilt.
Ongoing Legal Battle and Public Scrutiny
As legal proceedings unfold, the situation remains highly sensitive and unresolved. With widespread public interest and continuous revelations, the controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun, the late Kim Sae Ron, and Gold Medalist continues to dominate headlines in South Korea.
Read More: Thalapathy Vijay’s Sachein Gears Up for Grand Re-Release on 20th Anniversary
