Korean netizens are threatening to boycott 19 brands featuring actor Kim Soo Hyun, demanding they cut ties with him following accusations from the late actress Kim Sae Ron‘s family. The controversy raises questions about the actor’s public image and its impact on brand associations.
Brand Endorsements Under Fire
Kim Soo Hyun currently represents a wide range of brands, including luxury fashion, finance, cosmetics, and retail. These include:
Swatch Group – MIDO (Watches)
HEBE Beauty (Cosmetics)
YOU Beauty (Cosmetics)
K2 Korea – Eider (Outdoor Apparel)
Homeplus (Retail)
Classys – Volnewmer (Beauty)
Suyen Corporation – BENCH/ (Clothing)
Shinhan Financial Group (Finance)
Shinhan Bank
All Day Fresh – Shabu All Day (Restaurant)
Trend Maker – Dinto (Cosmetics)
CJ Foodville – Tous Les Jours (Bakery & Confectionery)
KOSÉ – DECORTÉ AQ (Cosmetics)
Frombio (Health Supplements)
Estée Lauder Companies (Fragrance)
Jo Malone London (Fragrance)
Cuckoo Electronics – Cuckoo (Home Appliances)
Prada (Fashion)
Netizens believe that the recent accusations have tarnished Kim Soo Hyun‘s image, making him an unsuitable representative for these brands, especially those in the financial sector.
Netizen Reactions and Boycott Calls
The growing backlash has led to calls for boycotts against companies that continue to feature Kim Soo Hyun in their advertisements. Homeplus, a retail giant, has faced particular scrutiny, with netizens speculating about the potential financial penalties of terminating his contract.
“He’s really doing a ton of ads, fck… If companies don’t drop Kim Soo Hyun as a model, I’m boycotting and refusing to buy from them.” “They always say financial sector models are chosen for their trustworthy and likable image… but wow, what a complete betrayal.” “Homeplus better pay that ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.7 million USD) penalty, fck.” “How the hell does someone like him end up in a financial ad?” “If they keep using him as a model, let’s start a boycott.”
The pressure is increasing, with many demanding swift action from the brands to protect their reputations. The financial sector, particularly Shinhan Financial Group, has been criticized for maintaining Kim Soo Hyun‘s advertisements, given the nature of the controversy.
Saikat Nandy is an entertainment news writer who covers the latest trends and stories from the world of showbiz, has a keen eye for spotting the most interesting and relevant topics, and delivers them to his audience with flair and humor. He is also a freelance blogger, content writer, and website designer who loves to explore new technologies and creative ideas.
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