Kim Se-ui, the representative of controversial YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, has addressed the reason behind publishing a now-viral photo of actor Kim Soo-hyun washing dishes in the home of the late actress Kim Sae-ron. The photo has fueled online speculation amidst an ongoing legal and media storm over their alleged past relationship.

On March 27, a press conference was held in Seoul by Bu Ji-seok, the legal representative of Kim Sae-ron’s bereaved family, to respond to recent media claims and reveal evidence supporting the claim that Kim Soo-hyun had a relationship with Kim Sae-ron beginning when she was a minor.

Kim Se-ui stated that the photo was not meant to prove the timeline of a romantic relationship, but rather to challenge Kim Soo-hyun’s claim that he “had never once been” to Kim Sae-ron’s house. “We’re still verifying the exact timing of the photo, but based on the structure of the kitchen and comparisons to past broadcasts, it appears to match the time she appeared on shows like ‘I Live Alone’,” he explained.

Kim clarified that “this was not about proving a romantic relationship during her underage years, but simply refuting Kim Soo-hyun’s denial of ever visiting her home.”

He further added that the channel’s mention of “Nth Room” during a previous broadcast, which sparked public controversy, was not to accuse Kim Soo-hyun of being directly involved, but “to raise public awareness and provoke reflection on Kim Soo-hyun’s shameless behavior”. Kim Se-ui also claimed they still possess material they are choosing not to release “so as not to damage reputations.” When asked whether he intends to sue Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Se-ui responded, “We don’t file lawsuits recklessly just to make a point. Every action we take is thoroughly reviewed. We’re on the side of truth.” He then emphasized that the public should stand with the powerless in the pursuit of truth, “no matter how wealthy or powerful the other side may be.”

Kim Se-ui then echoed the wishes of the bereaved family, urging restraint not just toward them but also toward Kim Soo-hyun, stating, “It’s been only a month since Kim Sae-ron passed away. Please don’t further wound the hearts of her family.”

Previously, the family of Kim Sae-ron claimed she had been in a relationship with Kim Soo-hyun from age 15 for six years and denied YouTuber Lee Jin-ho’s allegations as false. Kim Soo-hyun’s side initially denied any relationship, but later admitted they dated for one year after Kim Sae-ron became an adult—following the release of intimate photos. To support their claims, Kim Sae-ron’s family has conducted digital forensics on past photos, aiming to prove the relationship began as early as 2015.

Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun has filed legal complaints against Garo Sero Institute, the bereaved family, and an unnamed individual claiming to be Kim Sae-ron’s aunt, citing violations of the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, including the unauthorized distribution of intimate imagery.

As legal tensions escalate, both sides are battling not just in court, but in the court of public opinion—with the truth still unfolding.