Kim Soo Hyun, once heralded as one of South Korea’s most beloved actors, has recently found himself at the center of a devastating scandal that has rapidly tarnished his reputation. Known for his roles in iconic K-dramas like “My Love from the Star” and “Moon Embracing the Sun,” and celebrated for his endorsements across various industries, the 37-year-old actor’s fall from grace has been shocking.
The controversy erupted following revelations surrounding Kim’s alleged relationship with Kim Seron, a promising young actress who tragically took her own life in February 2025 at just 24 years old. Accusations surfaced that Kim Soo Hyun had been involved with Kim Seron when she was only 15, raising serious allegations of child grooming. This information came to light during a YouTube interview with Kim Seron’s aunt, who claimed Kim Soo Hyun’s influence played a significant role in the young actress’s struggles, including her controversial drunk driving incident in May 2022.
Initially, it seemed that Kim Soo Hyun had supported Kim Seron during her troubled times, offering to cover her legal costs after the accident. However, two years later, his agency, Gold Medalist, reportedly demanded repayment of approximately 700 million won, leading to intense public backlash. This demand, amidst Kim Seron’s financial and emotional turmoil, allegedly contributed to her tragic decision to end her life on Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday.
As public outrage grew, Gold Medalist initially denied the dating allegations but later admitted that the two had indeed been in a relationship, albeit claiming it began when Kim Seron was of legal age. However, the timeline and evidence suggest otherwise, casting further doubt on the agency’s statements.
In the wake of these events, Kim Soo Hyun’s career has been in freefall. Major brands have severed ties with him, and several of his upcoming projects have been delayed or canceled. As the Korean public grapples with the implications of these allegations, it remains to be seen whether Kim Soo Hyun can salvage his career or if this marks the end of his once-stellar trajectory in the entertainment industry.
