South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun is making his official return to the public eye with back-to-back appearances in Southeast Asia. After a 16-month break from entertainment activities, the Queen of Tears star has confirmed he will appear as a special guest on Indonesian broadcaster RCTI’s 37th anniversary special on August 23, 2026, in Jakarta. He is also set to hold a large-scale fan meeting in the Philippines on October 2, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.
His agency, Gold Medalist, confirmed both schedules on August 10. The appearances mark the actor’s first official public activities after police closed an investigation into allegations against him without forwarding the case for prosecution on July 29.
Jakarta Appearance Set for August 23
Kim Soo-hyun will travel to Jakarta later this month to take part in “Mahakarya RCTI 37,” a four-hour live broadcast celebrating the 37th anniversary of RCTI, Indonesia’s largest private television network. The event is scheduled for prime time and will air simultaneously on terrestrial television, the RCTI+ OTT platform, and the network’s social media channels.
The actor is expected to participate in special performances alongside popular Indonesian actors, conduct interviews, and interact with fans during the broadcast. His invitation is reportedly part of a project led by Indonesia’s largest media group, MNC Group, to strengthen collaboration with the Korean entertainment industry.
This will be Kim Soo-hyun’s first official public appearance since he resumed activities. The event brings together top local actors and singers, making it one of RCTI’s biggest annual productions.
Philippines Fan Meeting Set for October 2
Following his Jakarta appearance, Kim Soo-hyun will head to Manila for a fan meeting titled “OUR FOREVER WITH YOU” on October 2 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The event is organized by Philippine lifestyle and fashion brand Bench, which Kim Soo-hyun endorses.
Around 20,000 fans are expected to attend the large-scale event, which will feature performances, talk sessions, and interactive activities. The fan meeting was announced by Bench on August 4 through social media.
“The countdown begins! Kim Soo Hyun is coming to meet his Filipino fans very soon. Who’s excited?” Bench posted on X.
Kim last visited Manila in 2024 for a brand-organized fan meeting and has also made trips to the Philippines in 2022 and 2023. His upcoming return marks his first major overseas event after the legal case against him was dropped.
Comeback Began with Bench Campaign
Kim Soo-hyun’s return to the entertainment industry actually began in July. On July 14, 2026, he participated in an advertising shoot for Bench in South Korea, marking his first official work schedule since suspending activities in March 2025.
On August 2, Bench released a promotional video on social media showing Kim greeting fans for the first time in 16 months. In the video, he wore a black t-shirt, smiled warmly, bowed, and waved to the camera.
“I’ve missed you all so much. I’m truly happy to be back,” the actor said in the video.
His collaboration collection with Bench reportedly sold out quickly in the Philippines.
Legal Case and Hiatus Background
Kim Soo-hyun stepped away from entertainment activities in March 2025 after facing allegations regarding his past relationship with late actress Kim Sae-ron. The controversy led to the loss of sponsorship deals and the postponement of key projects, including the Disney+ series Knock Off.
His agency denied the allegations, stating that any relationship with Kim Sae-ron began after she reached adulthood. They filed defamation complaints against Kim Se-ui, the operator of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute, and the late actress’s family.
Police investigation revealed that some photos and audio files submitted by Kim Se-ui’s side had been manipulated using artificial intelligence. Message conversations were also found to have been fabricated. Kim Se-ui was subsequently indicted and detained on charges including defamation, violation of the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, attempted coercion, and threats.
In May 2026, police concluded their investigation and decided not to indict Kim Soo-hyun, finding no evidence to support the underage dating allegations. The case was formally closed on July 29 without prosecution.
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Fan Reactions and Online Response
News of Kim Soo-hyun’s Indonesia appearance has generated significant buzz among fans. Many expressed excitement about seeing the actor back on screen.
However, some Indonesian netizens have also voiced criticism, questioning why RCTI invited Kim given the past controversy. Comments on social media included calls to boycott the broadcaster. Despite this, the actor continues to maintain strong popularity across Southeast Asia.
What’s Confirmed So Far
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahakarya RCTI 37 | August 23, 2026 | Jakarta, Indonesia | Special guest, live broadcast, interviews, performances |
| OUR FOREVER WITH YOU Fan Meeting | October 2, 2026 | SM Mall of Asia Arena, Manila, Philippines | 20,000 expected attendees, performances, talk sessions |
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency has confirmed both appearances. The actor has not yet announced plans for a return to Korean television or film projects.
Also Read: Kim Soo-hyun Announces First Fan Meeting Since Comeback After 16-Month Hiatus
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