The tragic passing of South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron at just 24 years of age has sent shockwaves not only through the Korean entertainment industry but also around the world. Her death has left fans mourning, especially after the intense public scrutiny she faced following her DUI scandal. The actress was found dead at her home in Seongsu-dong, Seongdong-gu, on February 16 and authorities have confirmed her death as a suicide, with no signs of foul play.
In the aftermath of her passing, many netizens, some of whom were previously part of the backlash against her, have expressed sympathy. However, others have taken to social media to highlight how difficult life is for women in South Korea.
Following Kim Sae-ron's death, BTS rapper Min Yoongi's name also trended. SUGA's DUI incident came up again, where he fell while riding an electric kickboard and his alcohol level was never disclosed with many still using the several fake CCTV videos and news articles that circulated at the time. However, fans were quick to point out that he did not harm anyone and only fell while making a sharp turn. Despite this, he has not yet made a comeback into the industry, as he is still serving his mandatory military service.?
In contrast, many South Korean entertainers, including those arrested for rape and sexual assault, have made comebacks after facing initial backlash. A notable example is the "Burning Sun Scandal," where all the accused have been released from jail.?
Fans are questioning why South Korea seems more willing to forgive men who have committed serious offenses, while Kim Sae-ron, who crashed her vehicle into multiple objects in Gangnam District on May 15, 2022, faced such intense condemnation.?
While her accident caused a power outage affecting 57 nearby businesses, and Kim's blood alcohol level was found to be 0.2 percent, well above the legal limit of 0.08 percent, which led to her license being revoked, she did not physically harm anyone.?
Many netizens voiced their concerns on X (formerly Twitter). One user wrote, "Burning sun men roaming around freely, pedophiles all over the industry, rapists, abusers... yet she¡¯s been getting crucified since age 9, apologized for her actual mistakes and tried to move forward, just for it all to come crashing down. South Korea is hell for women."
Another said, "South Koreans need to rethink their extremely toxic cancel culture. The way they treat the very people who bring them joy when idols/celebrities make mistakes is really diabolical."
One wrote, "There¡¯s a conversation that has to be had about how Koreans treat women. Men: rape, assault, prey on minors (gets rewarded with huge deals and successful shows). Women: have a DUI or show too much cleavage (bullied to suicide)."
Another stated, "A child actress who was mistreated by her mom and later by the whole industry, taking her life after making multiple attempts to move on, only to face relentless bullying from people who support sexual abusers. South Korea really is hell for women."
Kim Sae-ron made her debut in 2009 with the film A Brand New Life and gained fame through The Man from Nowhere. Her latest project was the 2023 series Bloodhounds.
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