Kim Soo-Hyun, a beloved South Korean actor, faces intense online scrutiny following allegations tied to his past relationship with the late Kim Sae-Ron. Despite the controversy, his global fanbase has united to launch a petition defending his rights and condemning unverified rumors. The actor’s agency, Gold Medalist, also takes legal action against malicious content, while public debates spark discussions on South Korea’s legal protections for minors.
The controversy began when allegations surfaced claiming Kim Soo-Hyun dated Kim Sae-Ron starting in 2015, when she was allegedly 15 years old. These claims, initially raised by the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, also linked Gold Medalist to a stock manipulation case involving Kim Sae-Ron’s name. The actor and his agency firmly denied the underage dating accusations, stating their relationship occurred between 2019 and 2020, when Kim Sae-Ron was an adult. At a press conference on March 31, 2025, Kim Soo-Hyun presented forensic evidence to counter manipulated messages from 2016 and 2018, though public backlash persisted.
“I was pressured to admit to false accusations, and evidence had been manipulated,” Kim Soo-Hyun said at the press conference.
The allegations led to significant repercussions. Kim Soo-Hyun’s footage was completely edited out of MBC’s variety show Good Day, hosted by G-Dragon, following viewer demands. Actors Im Si-Wan and Ahn Bo-Hyun unfollowed him on Instagram, and netizens called for his replacement in the drama Knock Off. Additionally, a petition titled the “Kim Soo-Hyun Prevention Act” gained over 51,000 signatures, urging South Korea’s National Assembly to raise the age of consent from 16 to 19 and impose stricter penalties for sexual offenses involving minors.
“The grooming sexual abuse committed by Hallyu star Kim Soo-Hyun against then-child actor Kim Sae-Ron has outraged the entire country,” the petition stated.
Despite the criticism, Kim Soo-Hyun’s fans have mobilized globally to support him. On April 12, an international fan account shared a video from his Japan fan meeting, showcasing his warm interactions with supporters. The account launched a global petition to protect his human rights, condemning the “online public trial” fueled by unverified rumors.
“Believing in the truth of Kim Soo-Hyun’s journey, his fans will never leave,” a fan wrote alongside the petition link.
“This movement is not just about one celebrity. It’s about protecting the dignity of all public figures from baseless accusations and online abuse,” posted @kSHJPVotingTeam on X.
Kim Soo Hyun in Queen of Tears | Image: Courtesy of tvN
The petition has gained traction, with Korean media outlet TopStarNews highlighting its significance. Fans emphasize Kim Soo-Hyun’s kindness and talent, arguing he faces an unfair witch hunt. Meanwhile, Gold Medalist has filed multiple lawsuits against cyberbullies, vowing zero tolerance for malicious posts.
“Recently, malicious posts, comments, and false information targeting our artist, Kim Soo-Hyun, have been indiscriminately posted and circulated online,” Gold Medalist stated on April 15.
Public reactions remain divided. Some netizens demand accountability, pointing to Kim Sae-Ron’s family’s evidence, while others defend Kim Soo-Hyun, citing his consistent denials and legal actions. The controversy has also impacted projects like Queen of Tears, with fans speculating its snub at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards stems from the scandal, despite its record-breaking viewership on Netflix in 2024.
Legal experts suggest Kim Soo-Hyun may avoid criminal charges due to insufficient evidence, even if the “Kim Soo-Hyun Prevention Act” is reviewed. The petition for law reform, which reached the National Assembly on April 7, reflects broader concerns about protecting minors but faces challenges in retroactively applying new laws.
Allegation Timeline: Claims surfaced of a relationship from November 2015 to July 2021, starting when Kim Sae-Ron was 15. Kim Soo-Hyun denies this, stating it began in 2019.
Show Impact: Good Day removed all Kim Soo-Hyun footage after filming on March 13, 2025, due to viewer backlash.
Legal Actions: Gold Medalist pursues global lawsuits against defamatory content; Kim Soo-Hyun seeks 11 billion KRW in damages.
Fan Support: Global petition launched on April 12, 2025, to defend Kim Soo-Hyun’s rights, featured by TopStarNews.
Law Reform: “Kim Soo-Hyun Prevention Act” petition, with over 51,000 signatures, pushes to raise the age of consent to 19.
The ongoing debate has sparked wider conversations about celebrity accountability, online harassment, and South Korea’s legal framework. While Kim Soo-Hyun navigates professional setbacks, his fans remain steadfast, using social media hashtags like #AlwaysWithSooHyun to rally support. The National Assembly’s review of the petition could shape future protections for minors, but Kim Soo-Hyun’s case highlights the complexities of public perception in the digital age.
As fans globally unite in support of Kim Soo-Hyun through petitions and trending hashtags, we want to know your thoughts!
Credits: Social Media Reactions from X(formerly twitter)
