South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun is facing multiple lawsuits from advertisers following a controversy involving his private life. Companies in Taiwan and South Korea are seeking millions in damages after halting campaigns featuring the star. Meanwhile, Kim has filed new legal complaints against a YouTuber and the family of late actress Kim Sae Ron.
Taiwan’s 7-Eleven is preparing a lawsuit against Kim after canceling a major collaboration. The convenience store chain had planned to release coffee, food, and souvenirs featuring Kim’s image but stopped production due to the scandal. The estimated losses are ₩6 billion KRW ($4.29 million USD), including wasted products and advertising costs .
Kim was also supposed to appear at a 7-Eleven festival in March but did not attend. The company has not yet made an official statement. In South Korea, two advertisers have already sued Kim for ₩3 billion KRW ($2.08 million USD) in refunds and damages .
A lawyer involved in the case revealed that Kim had contracts with 15 brands, each worth ₩1 billion to ₩1.2 billion KRW. If all companies take legal action, the total damages could exceed ₩10 billion KRW ($7.2 million USD) .
The controversy began when rumors linked Kim to late actress Kim Sae Ron, suggesting they had a past relationship while she was underage. Kim denied the claims in a tearful press conference last month. However, the backlash has led to brands cutting ties with him .
Kim’s agency, GOLDMEDALIST, has taken strong legal action against those spreading rumors. They filed a complaint on April 1, 2025, against YouTuber Kim Se Eui for violating South Korea’s Stalking Punishment Act. The court issued a provisional order on April 23 to stop the YouTuber’s actions, but he continued posting false claims .
“Kim Se Eui’s actions, which disregard the court’s ruling, are subject to criminal punishment of up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 20 million won (approximately $14,000),” the agency stated .
Kim has also filed a complaint against Kim Sae Ron’s family, though details remain unclear. The legal battles come as his career faces uncertainty, with brands distancing themselves and projects potentially at risk.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions online. Some support Kim, calling the lawsuits unfair, while others believe advertisers have the right to protect their brands. The situation remains tense as more companies consider legal action.
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Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron Controversy: Police Investigate 10 Cases Amid Fake Evidence Claims
Source: hankyung
