Actor Kim Soo Hyun has filed an additional criminal complaint against Kim Se Ui, the operator of YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, and the family of the late actress Kim Sae Ron. The complaint accuses them of false accusations and malicious prosecution after they allegedly used AI-generated fake audio to spread false claims.
The legal team from L.K.B & Partners, representing Kim Soo Hyun and his agency Gold Medalist, confirmed the action on June 23, 2025. They stated that Kim Se Ui held a press conference on May 7, 2025, where he played a manipulated recording. The audio falsely suggested Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron had a romantic relationship since middle school.
The fabricated recording also claimed Kim Soo Hyun’s team offered ₩4 billion (around $3 million) to buy the file. When refused, they allegedly sent assassins to silence the whistleblower. The legal team called these claims “absurd and completely baseless.”
Other than spreading rumors, Kim Se Ui and Kim Sae Ron’s family filed a criminal complaint against Kim Soo Hyun for child welfare law violations. His lawyers called this a clear case of malicious prosecution, stressing that using fake evidence is a serious crime.
Kim Soo Hyun’s side is taking strong legal action to hold those responsible accountable. They emphasized that forged evidence cannot be used to damage someone’s reputation or file false charges.
“Fabricating evidence is a serious crime, but filing criminal charges based on forged evidence is even worse. We will ensure the perpetrators face legal consequences.” — Kim Soo Hyun’s Legal Team
This case highlights growing concerns over AI deepfake misuse in spreading misinformation. Kim Soo Hyun’s legal move aims to set a precedent against such malicious acts.
Below is the Official Statement Regarding Additional Legal Action Against Garo Sero Institute:
Gold Medalist and actor Kim Soo Hyun have today filed an additional criminal complaint for false accusation (malicious prosecution) against Kim Se Ui, operator of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute (hereinafter “Garo Sero”), and the family of the late actress Kim Sae Ron.
As is widely known, on May 7, 2025, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Kim Se Ui held a press conference during which he played an audio recording allegedly of the late actress Kim Sae Ron, which had been fabricated using AI deep voice technology. During this press event, he claimed:
– “Actor Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae Ron had been in a romantic relationship since middle school, and there is a recording to prove this.” – “Kim Soo Hyun’s side offered ₩4 billion to the whistleblower in exchange for the recording. When the offer was refused, they attempted to murder the whistleblower by hiring two hitmen.”
These statements are utterly absurd and constitute the dissemination of baseless falsehoods.
Moreover, based on this forged audio file, Kim Se Ui and the family of the late actress Kim Sae Ron went further by filing a criminal complaint accusing actor Kim Soo Hyun of child welfare law violations. This is clearly a case of malicious prosecution.
Fabricating evidence is a serious criminal act, but filing a criminal complaint based on forged evidence is an even more grave offense. Accordingly, Gold Medalist and actor Kim Soo Hyun have taken prompt action by filing this additional complaint and will do everything in their power to ensure that the individuals responsible are held accountable under the law and in accordance with legal principles. End of statement.
Kim Sae Ron, who passed away earlier this year, was a former child actress. Her family’s involvement in the case has added complexity. Meanwhile, Garo Sero Institute is known for controversial celebrity exposés, often accused of spreading unverified claims.
Kim Soo Hyun, one of South Korea’s top actors, has maintained a clean public image. His agency stated they will not tolerate defamation and will pursue all legal measures. Fans have shown strong support for the actor, calling the allegations “ridiculous and harmful.”
Legal experts say false accusation charges in South Korea can lead to heavy penalties, including fines and imprisonment. If proven, the defendants may face serious consequences for spreading fake news.
This incident follows previous legal battles involving AI-generated content targeting celebrities. Authorities are increasing scrutiny on deepfake technology misuse. Kim Soo Hyun’s case could influence future laws on digital fraud.
The police are investigating the authenticity of the audio file. Tech experts will determine if AI voice cloning was used. If confirmed, this could strengthen Kim Soo Hyun’s case against the accusers.
Kim Soo Hyun continues filming his upcoming drama “Knock Off”, unaffected by the controversy. His agency assures fans that his work remains a priority despite legal actions.
This lawsuit marks another high-profile case of celebrity defamation in South Korea. Similar incidents have involved other stars like Lee Jong Suk and IU, who also fought false rumors legally.
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