South Korean Celebrities Distance Themselves from Kim Soo Hyun Following Kim Sae Ron Controversy

Published on 11 April 2025, by Shin Min-Hae | SOUTH KOREA.

The South Korean entertainment industry is once again in the eye of a storm, with a controversy involving actor Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae Ron sparking widespread public scrutiny. The scandal, which centers on accusations of an inappropriate relationship between the two, has led to a ripple effect, with several high-profile figures distancing themselves from Kim Soo Hyun both publicly and on social media.

The controversy began when rumors circulated suggesting that Kim Soo Hyun had been romantically involved with Kim Sae Ron while she was underage. These rumors quickly gained traction on social media, with many fans and commentators speculating about the nature of their relationship. Kim Soo Hyun, who is widely respected for his roles in hit dramas like It's Okay to Not Be Okay and My Love from the Star, vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that their relationship only began after Kim Sae Ron reached legal adulthood.

However, the situation took a tragic turn when Kim Sae Ron passed away in February 2025, coincidentally on the same day as Kim Soo Hyun's birthday. This incident sparked even more speculation, with some believing the timing of her death and the controversy surrounding their relationship could be connected.

Despite his defense, the damage to his public image had already begun. Several of his colleagues, particularly those within the South Korean entertainment industry, started distancing themselves from him. Actors like Im Si Wan and Ahn Bo Hyun notably unfollowed Kim Soo Hyun on Instagram, signaling a shift in their professional relationships.

The fallout has not been confined to Kim Soo Hyun’s social media. Major brands, including the luxury fashion house Prada, have severed ties with the actor. Prada’s decision to terminate its collaboration with Kim Soo Hyun reflects the broader impact of the controversy on his career. Other brands are also following suit, suspending or canceling their contracts with him as they assess the potential damage to their own reputations.

This swift distancing from Kim Soo Hyun raises questions about the nature of celebrity culture in South Korea, where public opinion and media scrutiny can dramatically affect an actor’s career. Celebrities in the country are often held to a high moral standard, and any controversy, particularly involving issues of personal relationships or legal accusations, can result in severe consequences.

As the scandal continues to unfold, it has reignited discussions about the pressures faced by public figures in South Korea. The country’s entertainment industry is known for its high stakes, where the balance between maintaining a pristine public image and personal privacy is delicate. In a culture where every move is scrutinized, even the smallest misstep can lead to a fall from grace.

For now, Kim Soo Hyun’s future in the entertainment industry remains uncertain. While his legal battle continues, the actor’s professional reputation and personal life hang in the balance. As for the South Korean public, the saga is yet another chapter in a long history of celebrity controversies that continue to shape the nation’s cultural landscape.