The entertainment industry is in turmoil following allegations surrounding renowned actor Kim Soo Hyun and his alleged past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron. Social media has erupted with demands for his removal from the industry after Kim Sae Ron’s family claimed the two were involved when she was legally a minor.
The controversy stems from claims that their relationship began in 2015 when Kim Sae Ron was just 15, while Kim Soo Hyun, now a celebrated actor in Queen of Tears, was 27. YouTube channel HoverLab recently released unseen photos of the pair, prompting intense scrutiny. Initially, Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, denied any involvement. However, after the release of the images, the agency revised its statement, asserting that the relationship only began in 2019, after Kim Sae Ron had turned 19.
Legal Clarifications Amid Public Uproar
With the allegations sparking heated debate, legal experts have weighed in on the matter. Attorney Lee Go Eun told YTN that, under South Korea’s current law—revised in May 2020—any sexual act with a minor under 16, even if consensual, constitutes statutory rape. However, in 2015, the law required the minor to be under 13 for criminal charges to be filed.
Lee further clarified, “The fact that they were in a relationship alone would not be sufficient for prosecution. It would be difficult to establish criminal liability unless there is concrete evidence of sexual acts.”
Financial Disputes and Tragic Passing
Kim Sae Ron tragically passed away on February 16 in her Seoul residence, with her family citing financial struggles as a contributing factor. Reports allege that she was in debt, with claims suggesting she owed Kim Soo Hyun approximately $483,000, further complicating the narrative.
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Career Implications for Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun, one of Korea’s highest-paid actors, has seen his reputation take a hit amid the controversy. Known for starring in My Love From The Star, Moon Embracing The Sun, The Producers, and It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, he now faces mounting scrutiny as the public and legal experts continue to dissect the timeline of events.
As the situation unfolds, industry insiders are closely watching for any potential repercussions on Kim Soo Hyun’s career, while fans remain divided over the accusations. With social media driving intense discourse, the entertainment industry braces for further developments.
