This article includes descriptions of Underage Relationship, sexual assault that may disturb some readers.
The family of late actress Kim Sae Ron has taken legal action against actor Kim Soo Hyun, accusing him of sexual abuse and violating child welfare laws. The complaint claims their relationship began when she was in middle school.
On May 7, lawyer Boo Ji Seok, representing Kim Sae Ron’s family, held a press conference in Seoul. He announced a criminal complaint was filed against Kim Soo Hyun for alleged violations of the Child Welfare Act and false accusations.
The family alleges Kim Soo Hyun had an inappropriate relationship with Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor. They claim he forced her into sexual acts during her second year of middle school.
“Kim Soo Hyun dated Kim Sae Ron when she was underage. He made her do inappropriate things and abused her. We are filing this complaint to reveal the truth,” said lawyer Boo Ji Seok during the press conference.
The family played an audio recording of Kim Sae Ron speaking about her relationship with Kim Soo Hyun.
In the recording, Kim Sae Ron confirms she dated Kim Soo Hyun from middle school until she entered university. When asked by her acquaintance if she was an adult during their first sexual encounter, she responds clearly. She states it happened during the winter vacation of her second year in middle school, when she was in 8th grade. This would place her age at approximately 14 at the time.
Kim Sae Ron: The first time we did it was when I was in 8th grade, during the winter vacation. Acquaintance A: Wow, 8th grade? Kim Sae Ron: Even then… F**, thinking about it now, should I say that I was being taken advantage of?* Acquaintance A: F**, of course you were being taken advantage of.*
The conversation reveals Kim Sae Ron reflecting on her past. She expressed regret and suggested she may have been taken advantage of by Kim Soo Hyun. Her acquaintance reacted with anger, and questioned her why she didn’t hold him accountable. Kim Sae Ron said that others who knew about their relationship had similar reactions. They viewed her as naive for not addressing the issue earlier. These statements have fueled public outrage, with many questioning Kim Soo Hyun’s actions.
The family also revealed that a whistleblower helping them was attacked after refusing to sell evidence. They requested police protection for Kim Sae Ron’s aunt and YouTuber Kim Se Eui, who supports their claims.
Kim Soo Hyun has denied previous allegations. His agency previously stated they only dated when she was an adult.
Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, previously sued Kim Sae Ron’s family and the YouTuber for spreading private photos. They demanded 12 billion won ($8.6 million) in damages.
