Police Intervene at Garosero Research Institute’s Office After Livestream Mentions Kim Soo Hyun in Violation of Court-Issued Stalking Order, YouTuber Kim Se Ui Claims Press Suppression
South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun made headlines again after police were sent to the office of controversial YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute. The incident occurred during a live broadcast on June 13, 2025, where the channel allegedly violated a court-issued stalking order against its operator, Kim Se Ui.
The court order prevents Kim Se Ui from creating content about Kim Soo Hyun. However, the YouTuber featured the actor’s name prominently in the livestream thumbnail, leading viewers to report it. Police arrived at Garosero’s office in Shinsa-dong, Seoul, issuing a verbal warning but taking no further action.
Kim Se Ui reacted strongly during the broadcast, calling the police visit an attempt to “suppress the press.” He has been a central figure in the ongoing controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun and late actress Kim Sae Ron, who died by suicide in February 2025.
Why Did Police Intervene?
The Seoul Central District Court had previously issued a provisional stalking order against Kim Se Ui, banning him from mentioning Kim Soo Hyun in his content. This came after months of allegations from Garosero, including claims that Kim Soo Hyun dated Kim Sae Ron when she was underage.
Kim Soo Hyun has repeatedly denied these accusations, admitting only to a one-year relationship with Kim Sae Ron in 2019-2020, when she was an adult. His agency, GoldMedalist, filed lawsuits against Garosero and Kim Sae Ron’s family, seeking 12 billion KRW (approx. $8.1 million) in damages for defamation.
Despite the court order, Garosero continued discussing the case, leading to the police visit. Officers warned Kim Se Ui but did not arrest him. Police later stated they could not confirm if further legal action would follow.
Garosero’s Role in the Controversy
Garosero has been a key player in amplifying claims against Kim Soo Hyun. The channel, run by former journalist Kim Se Ui, published videos with unverified chat logs and photos allegedly showing Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron together when she was a minor.
Kim Soo Hyun’s legal team has dismissed these as fabricated or misdated. They also revealed that a whistleblower admitted to using AI-generated voice clips to falsely implicate the actor. Forensic analysis confirmed the audio was manipulated.
Kim Sae Ron’s family, however, maintains their stance. They claim she was in a six-year relationship with Kim Soo Hyun, starting when she was 15. They also allege financial pressure from his agency contributed to her distress before her death.
Public and Industry Reactions
The case has sparked debates about media ethics, defamation laws, and celebrity privacy in South Korea. Some netizens support Kim Soo Hyun, calling Garosero’s actions harassment. Others argue the channel is exposing alleged misconduct.
Brands like Prada and Dinto have cut ties with Kim Soo Hyun, and his Disney+ series “Knock-Off” was postponed due to the scandal. Meanwhile, Garosero’s supporters claim the actor is using legal tactics to silence critics.
What Happens Next?
With lawsuits ongoing, the legal battle could take months. Kim Soo Hyun’s team insists they will “pursue all legal measures” against false claims. Meanwhile, Garosero vows to continue reporting, despite police warnings.
The case remains one of South Korea’s most high-profile entertainment controversies, raising questions about power dynamics, accountability, and media influence.
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