Kim Soo-hyun’s agency accused of legal threats to Kim Sae-ron: Actor's fan clubs shut down as career is at risk

The controversy surrounding actors Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyun has intensified, with growing public scrutiny over financial disputes, past relationships, and legal threats. Allegations and counter-statements have fueled speculation, and the actor’s future appears increasingly uncertain.

Leaked messages and financial disputes

A major development emerged when Korean media outlet Dispatch published an exposé regarding Gold Medalist, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, allegedly pressuring Kim Sae-ron to repay a substantial loan.

According to Dispatch, Gold Medalist sent a legal notice stating:

“On November 22, 2022, you borrowed KRW 686,409,653 from the client and entered into a money consumption loan agreement to repay the loan by December 31, 2023. However, you have not repaid the above loan obligation even though the due date has arrived. If you don't deposit the full loan (700 million won) as soon as possible, we will take civil and criminal legal action.”

Kim Sae-ron reportedly reached out to Kim Soo-hyun, explaining that she was financially struggling while supporting her family.

“I’m not saying that I won’t pay, but if they ask me for 700 million won right away, I really can’t do it,” she pleaded, requesting an extension. However, sources claim that Kim Soo-hyun never responded.

In response, Gold Medalist denied any ill intent, stating:

“We had no intention of enforcing repayment. We followed standard procedures to prevent any potential legal issues. She could repay when she made a profit or was financially stable.”

Despite these assurances, reports indicate that Kim Sae-ron was forced to sell most of her assets to settle her debts, leaving her in significant financial distress. Neighbors reportedly saw her frequently crying on her apartment's staircase.

Public outrage and boycott calls

As the controversy unfolded, social media erupted with backlash against Kim Soo-hyun. Hashtags calling for his boycott have gained traction, and concerns have emerged about his upcoming drama Knock-Off and his brand endorsements.

 Additionally, leaked images and messages allegedly exchanged between Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyun have further fueled public outrage. These leaks coincide with mounting accusations that their relationship was inappropriate from the start. Fan clubs closed down too. One club sent out a message, "To the actor I once admired, goodbye."

Serious allegations of exploitation

On March 10, YouTube channel HoverLab Inc. uploaded a video alleging that Kim Sae-ron had been in a romantic relationship with Kim Soo-hyun for six years, beginning when she was just 15 years old. The video also claimed that she worked at Gold Medalist in a rookie casting and visual directing role but was exploited without pay.

The accusations added another layer of controversy, raising questions about power dynamics and ethical concerns within the entertainment industry.

Kim Soo-hyun’s response

Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, swiftly issued a statement dismissing the allegations as completely false:

“HoverLab Inc. alleged that our company and Kim Soo-hyun colluded with YouTuber Lee Jin Ho to harass the late actress Kim Sae-ron. They also claimed that Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron were in a romantic relationship starting when she was 15, that we mishandled the aftermath of her DUI incident, and that a company manager had inappropriate ties with Lee Jin Ho. These malicious claims are entirely false and will not be tolerated.”

Gold Medalist emphasized that they are pursuing legal action against HoverLab Inc. for spreading misinformation. They also expressed sorrow over Kim Sae-ron’s passing, condemning the rumors as harmful both to their company and her legacy.

What’s next

With growing scrutiny, Kim Soo-hyun’s career hangs in the balance. While his agency is aggressively denying the claims, public perception continues to shift. Whether this controversy will significantly impact his projects remains to be seen. Meanwhile, discussions on power imbalances and financial exploitation in the industry are gaining momentum, keeping the case in the spotlight.