Kim Soo Hyun, one of South Korea’s most celebrated actors, is facing a storm of controversy following the tragic passing of actress Kim Sae Ron. Public opinion is sharply divided over his response—or lack thereof—to her death, with some slamming his agency’s statements as “heartless” and others arguing that he shouldn’t be forced to mourn publicly. Here’s everything you need to know about this unfolding drama.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The situation began on February 16, 2025, when Kim Sae Ron was found dead in her Seoul home, a death later ruled as suicide. Rumors quickly swirled that she and Kim Soo Hyun had been romantically involved, with allegations from her family—shared via the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute—claiming their relationship started when she was just 15 and he was 27. Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, initially denied any relationship, but later admitted the two dated from summer 2019 to fall 2020, after she turned 18. This flip-flop only deepened public confusion and anger.
Things escalated when Kim Soo Hyun didn’t attend Kim Sae Ron’s funeral and remained silent, leaving his agency to handle the fallout. His appearance at G-Dragon’s listening party shortly after her death added fuel to the fire, leaving fans and netizens split on how to interpret his actions.
Criticism: “A Heartless Response”
Many netizens have criticized Kim Soo Hyun for what they see as a cold and detached reaction. His agency’s legalistic statements, rather than a personal message of condolence, rubbed people the wrong way.
“A simple tribute or message would’ve been enough. Why respond like a lawyer?”
— Comment on Theqoo
Others pointed to his absence from the funeral and lack of a public gesture, like a social media post, as evidence of insensitivity:
“No matter how busy you are, you can post a flower photo on Instagram. That’s the least you can do.”
— Netizen comment
The backlash grew when Kim Sae Ron’s family accused him of distancing himself after her 2022 DUI scandal, claiming it contributed to her struggles. They’ve demanded he acknowledge their alleged relationship and apologize publicly, further amplifying calls for accountability.
Defense: “You Can’t Force Him to Mourn”
On the other side, many have come to Kim Soo Hyun’s defense, arguing that he’s being unfairly judged. Supporters say he shouldn’t be obligated to attend the funeral or mourn publicly, especially since their relationship had ended years ago.
“He’s no longer dating her. You can’t force someone to attend a funeral.”
— Netizen comment
Some have urged caution, noting the complexity of the situation and the lack of full context:
“The deceased cannot speak. We shouldn’t hold one side fully accountable without knowing the whole story.”
— Netizen comment
Defenders also highlight his right to privacy, suggesting that expecting a public display of grief might overstep personal boundaries.
Agency Under Fire
Gold Medalist hasn’t escaped scrutiny either. The agency’s pattern of issuing legal rebuttals—seen in past controversies with stars like Seo Ye Ji—has drawn criticism for lacking empathy.
“They always go legal first, never offering a proper apology.”
— Comment on Gold Medalist’s approach
Many believe a more human response could have softened the blow, but instead, the agency’s statements have only intensified the divide.
The Bigger Picture
This controversy has taken a toll on Kim Soo Hyun’s career. His upcoming drama Knock Off is postponed, his Good Day appearances have been cut, and brands are reportedly dropping him. Meanwhile, Kim Sae Ron’s family continues to push for her reputation to be restored, urging Kim Soo Hyun to speak out personally.
Some netizens see a path forward:
“Instead of hiding behind cold legal notices, he should sincerely reach out to the family. That’s what fans and the public want most right now.”
As opinions clash, the Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron controversy raises bigger questions about celebrity accountability, privacy, and how the public expects stars to navigate personal tragedies. For now, the debate rages on—will Kim Soo Hyun break his silence, or will the divide only deepen?
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