Kim Soo Hyun Faces Backlash Following Controversial Dating Scandal:

South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun, renowned for his stellar performances and wholesome image, is currently facing intense scrutiny following a dating scandal involving the late actress Kim Sae Ron. The scandal has sparked widespread controversy both domestically and internationally, leading to a dramatic fall in his Instagram follower count.

According to reports from Instiz, Kim Soo Hyun has lost nearly 1 million followers in just eight days. The decline began on March 10, 2025, when the actor lost 1,611 followers. This was followed by further losses, including a staggering 200,152 followers on March 12, and a significant drop of 494,129 followers on March 13. The total loss as of now stands at 913,805 followers, severely affecting his online presence, leaving him with 20,350,183 followers.

Fans Express Disappointment and Call for Action

As the scandal continues to unfold, many former fans have expressed their disappointment on social media, with some even calling for a boycott of the actor. A few have gone as far as demanding legal action against him. This widespread reaction highlights the significant impact the controversy has had on his public image.

The Alleged Relationship with Kim Sae Ron

Kim Soo Hyun and the late Kim Sae Ron had previously been linked, although their relationship was never publicly confirmed. Kim Sae Ron, a former child actress, was embroiled in a highly publicized DUI incident in 2022, in which she crashed into an electric transformer. The timing of this new scandal has raised questions about their alleged relationship, especially due to their 13-year age gap.

Agency Denies Relationship Rumors

In response to the allegations, Kim Soo Hyun's agency, GOLDMEDALIST, has denied any romantic involvement with Kim Sae Ron. The agency further clarified that the actress’s contract was not renewed in 2022 due to her involvement in the drunk driving incident. They also addressed the rumors surrounding their alleged relationship in 2015, which they firmly denied.

Impact on Brand Partnerships

The scandal has also affected Kim Soo Hyun's professional engagements, with major brands severing ties with the actor. Luxury brand PRADA and South Korean cosmetic company Dinto have both terminated their contracts with Kim Soo Hyun, citing concerns over his current public image.