Kim Soo Hyun takes legal action after online harassment and rumours over Kim Sae Ron controversy
Kim Soo Hyun has filed legal action against online users spreading defamatory and harassing content amid controversy surrounding the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Despite denying any involvement, the actor is facing backlash, with friends and brands reportedly distancing themselves.

South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun is taking a stand after facing a wave of online harassment and speculation tied to the tragic passing of actress Kim Sae Ron. According to his agency, Gold Medalist, a legal complaint has been filed against individuals who¡¯ve been spreading defamatory and sexually harassing content about the actor on social platforms like X and YouTube.
Kim Soo Hyun targets online harassment linked to Kim Sae Ron case
Kim Soo Hyun is pushing back against a wave of online abuse following rumours linking him to the tragic death of actress Kim Sae Ron. On April 15, Gold Medalist filed a legal complaint against users who spread defamatory and sexually harassing content on X and YouTube.
In an official statement released to South Korean media, the agency addressed what it called a disturbing rise in malicious activity online. ¡°Lately, we've seen a flood of hurtful posts, baseless rumours, and unverified claims targeting Kim Soo Hyun. These aren't just idle gossip¡ªthey¡¯ve caused real damage to his reputation and misled the public,¡± the statement read.
The agency emphasised that this isn¡¯t just about harsh comments; it¡¯s about serious behaviour with legal consequences. ¡°We¡¯re seeing slander, false narratives, personal attacks, and even sexual harassment across online communities. These actions aren¡¯t harmless¡ªthey're criminal,¡± Gold Medalist said, adding that the legal complaint was filed on April 14. Charges include defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act and insult under the Criminal Act.
About the Kim Soo Hyun controversy
The controversy stemmed from rumours surrounding Soo Hyun¡¯s alleged past relationship with actress Kim Sae Ron, who passed away earlier this year on February 16, coinciding with the actor¡¯s birthday. She was just 24. Police later confirmed that her death was a suicide.
The situation escalated after Kim Sae Ron¡¯s family claimed that Soo Hyun dated her while she was still a minor and even suggested that he contributed to her death. Soo Hyun addressed these claims publicly for the first time at a press conference last month, declaring, "I never dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor."
Despite his denial, Kim Soo Hyun has faced intense backlash, with some close friends reportedly distancing themselves and several brands quietly cutting ties with him.
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