Latest news with #Sae-ron
The Independent
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun denies grooming and dating late Netflix star Kim Sae-ron while she was underage
Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has vehemently denied allegations that he groomed and dated the late Netflix star Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor. During a surprise press conference on Monday in Seoul, South Korea, the 37-year-old Soo-hyun tearfully addressed accusations that he dated Sae-ron — who died by suicide at age 24 on Soo-hyun's birthday in February — when she was 15. South Korea defines juveniles as anybody under 19. 'I can't admit something I didn't do,' Soo-hyun told press, according to the BBC. While Soo-hyun admitted that the pair had dated for a year when Sae-ron was an adult, he denied ever having dated her when she was underage. 'I never dated her when she was a minor,' he said. 'Except for the fact that both of us were actors, our relationship was just like that of any other ordinary couple.' Soo-hyun's remarks come weeks after he found himself at the center of the scandal, which first erupted when a YouTube channel published videos and photos of the two actors, claiming they had been in a six-year relationship that allegedly began when Sae-ron was 15. Last week, the attorney representing Sae-ron's family held a press conference and revealed further messaging history allegedly shared between the two actors from 2016, when she was 16. Soo-hyun's agency initially denied the family's allegations before later clarifying that the two had dated from 2019 to 2020 when Sae-ron was an adult. At Monday's press conference, Soo-hyun defended his previous denial of their relationship in 2024 when Sae-ron posted a later-deleted Instagram photo of them during the airing of his Netflix romance drama Queen of Tears. 'I had so much to protect as its lead actor,' he explained. 'What would have happened if I had admitted to a year-long relationship? What would happen to the actors, the staff who were working overnight and the production team who had everything staked on that project? The more I thought of it, the more I thought that shouldn't be what I do.' Admissions of any romantic relationships within the South Korean entertainment industry are typically seen as scandalous, as celebrities' personal lives are often subject to intense scrutiny by fans. The controversy, which has since rocked the South Korean entertainment industry, additionally involves accusations that Soo-hyun's agency, GoldMedalist, pressured Sae-ron to repay a debt she owed him prior to her death. In 2022, Sae-ron faced a period of professional difficulty after a 2022 drunk driving incident, for which she received a court fine of 20 million won ($14,000). Sae-ron's family claimed that GoldMedalist, to which she had also been signed from 2020 to 2022, covered her legal fines. However, GoldMedalist took legal action against Sae-ron for repayment and ignored her request for more time to come up with the money, her family alleged. Soo-hyun denied those claims at Monday's press conference, saying that Sae-ron did not make 'the tragic choice because of me or my agency pressuring her over a debt.' 'Many people are suffering because of me,' Soo-hyun added, apologizing to his fans and staff. 'I also feel sorry that the late actress [Kim Sae-ron] isn't able to rest in peace.' Soo-hyun's career has faced significant damage in the wake of the scandal. Several brands, including Prada and Korean cosmetics company Dinto, have since ended their partnerships with him. Meanwhile, Disney+ has reportedly paused a show starring Soo-hyun due to the controversy, according to local news agency Yonhap. The actor's legal team has filed criminal complaints against Kim Sae-ron's family, as well as the YouTube channel, along with a civil lawsuit seeking damages of KRW12 billion (approximately $8.1 million). The Independent has reached out to GoldMedalist for comment. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@ or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Filipino Times
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Kim Soo-hyun's agency denies dating late actress Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor
South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun and the late Kim Sae-ron were in a relationship, but only after she became a legal adult, his agency Gold Medalist clarified on Friday, March 14. In a statement published by Soompi, the agency addressed rumors from YouTube channel HoverLab Inc., which alleged that the two dated when Sae-ron was still a minor. Gold Medalist refuted this, stating their relationship began in the summer of 2019, after she reached adulthood, and ended in the fall of 2020. 'All the photos presented as evidence that Kim Soo-hyun dated Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor were taken when she was already an adult,' the agency stated, denying claims that any photos were from 2016. The agency also dismissed allegations that Soo-hyun sent love letters to Sae-ron during his military service in 2018, explaining that the letters were sent to close acquaintances. Gold Medalist said it had planned to release a formal response next week and take legal action against HoverLab. However, it decided to issue a statement sooner due to Soo-hyun's reported psychological distress over claims linking him to Sae-ron's passing. Authorities ruled that Sae-ron died in February from a self-inflicted death.
Express Tribune
13-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Kim Soo hyun's handwritten love letter to underage Kim Sae ron surfaces after her death
South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun is at the centre of controversy after a handwritten love letter he allegedly wrote to the late actress Kim Sae-ron surfaced. The letter, dated June 9, 2018, was reportedly sent to Sae-ron when she was 17 years old and he was 30, sparking outrage due to the significant age difference. In the letter, which Kim Soo Hyun penned during his military service, he expressed his deep affection for Sae-ron, referring to her as 'Saero-Nero' and writing about how much he missed her. The letter, which was provided by Sae-ron's aunt, reveals Kim Soo Hyun's desire to share beautiful moments with Sae-ron, despite being physically separated. Photo: Garosero Research Institute '2018. 6. 9 Saero-Nero, Today, the weather was so unpredictable that I felt like I was being tossed around in all directions this wonderful Saturday. What a great day for writing something and thinking about you, Saero-Nero. This morning, in the foggy haze, I wondered, 'What kind of a day will it be today…?' Caught up in that feeling, I went straight to the noraebang (karaoke) and tried some Shin Seung Hoon songs, butchered them, and got in trouble for doing him disgrace… Maybe an hour or so later, the sun started blazing—the same sun that messed with my skin. I thought, 'This is a sign.' So, I grabbed some oil and went up to the helipad. Tanned both sides. After an hour, I couldn't handle it anymore because it got too hot. Then, I ate some lunch and am now watching some reruns of Heart Signal 2, cheering on for the contestants. It got dark outside again. Soon enough, the stormy clouds are letting go of everything they held onto, making all sorts of strange noises. I thought, 'Wow. I'm so glad I'm not on a training mission today.' About an hour later, the rain stopped unexpectedly. Perhaps the clouds went too hard, too fast. Or maybe it's gearing up for round two. Anyway, the clouds stayed, but the weather cleared. The sun began gleaming in the clouds. The shadows of the clouds deepened, and through those shadows, rays of sunshine began bursting out. It was a sight worth seeing, but I didn't have a camera with me.' — Kim Soo Hyun The discovery of the letter has reignited discussions around their relationship and raised questions about the appropriateness of such a bond given the age gap. While it is unclear how the letter came to light, it has been widely shared online, drawing attention to the nature of their relationship. Kim Soo Hyun has yet to comment on the resurfacing of the letter, and the controversy continues to evolve. Kim Sae-ron, who tragically passed away in February 2025, had a complex public image, marred by legal issues. However, this letter has added a new layer to the ongoing speculation surrounding her relationships.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Netflix Star Kim Sae-ron's Cause of Death Revealed: Report
Actress Kim Sae-ron's cause of death has been revealed. According to multiple outlets, including The New York Times, police on Monday, February 17, ruled Sae-ron's death a suicide. "We believe she made an extreme choice and plan to handle it as a suicide," a police official told reporters, per Yonhap News Agency. Sae-ron was found dead at her home on Sunday, February 16, by a friend who had visited her house, the Seongdong Police Station in Seoul told The New York Times. She was 24 years old. 'We have not found any signs of foul play as of yet, but we are investigating the circumstances of the death,' a police spokesperson told Yonhap on Sunday. 'Bloodhounds' Star Kim Sae-ron Found Dead Inside Home at 24, Police Officials Confirm Sae-ron began acting in 2009, starring in A Brand New Life, The Man From Nowhere, The Neighbors, A Girl at My Door, Snowy Road and The Villagers. She last appeared in Netflix's 2023 series Bloodhounds. Sae-ron's acting career suffered following a drunk driving incident in May 2022. The Netflix star was fined about $14,000 after her blood alcohol levels exceeded 0.2 percent, per Yonhap News Agency. (An alcohol level over 0.03 percent while driving is considered a D.U.I offense in South Korea.) 'First, I apologize for informing you of the accident and the damages late. I caused an accident in Gangnam around 8 a.m. yesterday, May 18, where I damaged public property. At the time, I was drunk and made a big mistake,' she said in a translated Instagram statement. 'Due to my poor judgment and actions, I caused damage to many people, including the merchants in the surrounding stores, citizens, and those who were helping with the repairs. I should have acted more carefully and responsibly, but I was unable to do so. I sincerely apologize.' 'Parasite' Actor Lee Sun-kyun Dead At Age 48 After Apparent Suicide She continued, 'I am currently working with the company to sort out the damages caused by the accident, and I will do my best to communicate and actively resolve the issue until the end.' Sae-ron also issued an apology to her coworkers at the time. 'I am also very sorry to my fellow actors, staff, and production crew for causing disruption to the work I was filming and preparing for. I deeply apologize once again and apologize for causing concern,' she concluded. 'There is no room for excuses for this unfortunate incident, and I am disappointed and ashamed of my own mistakes. I will deeply reflect and reflect again so that something like this will never happen again. I am sorry.' If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at
Yahoo
17-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
South Korean Actress Kim Sae-ron Passes Away Aged 24
The unexpected news of Kim Sae-ron's death has left fans and the South Korean entertainment industry in shock. The actress, who was once regarded as one of the rising stars, died at the young age of 24. She gained recognition for her roles in films and dramas before facing personal and professional struggles in recent years. Here are more details of Kim Sae-ron's death. South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found dead at her home in Seoul's Seongsu-dong district. A friend who was supposed to meet her discovered her body and contacted the police. Authorities confirmed there were no signs of foul play, but an investigation into the cause of death is ongoing. An official police spokesperson said, 'At this stage, we have not found any signs of foul play. However, we are carefully investigating the circumstances surrounding her passing.' (via KKN Live) Sae-ron was considered one of South Korea's most promising actresses. She gained early fame with A Brand New Life (2009), which led to her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. She later featured in The Man from Nowhere (2010), The Neighbors (2012), and A Girl at My Door (2014), earning praise for her performances. The actress also appeared in TV dramas like Hi! School-Love On (2014). However, her career took a hit in 2022 following a DUI incident in Seoul, which led to property damage and a fine of 20 million won. As a result, her role in Netflix's Bloodhounds (2023) was reportedly largely removed. Sae-ron also withdrew from other projects, including the drama Trolley. She was set to make a comeback with the play Dongchimi and the film Guitar Man but ultimately stepped away. Following her passing, her former agency Gold Medalist issued a statement expressing condolences. The agency said, 'We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of Kim Sae-ron's passing. May she rest in peace.' (via TheKoreaTimes) Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon. The post South Korean Actress Kim Sae-ron Passes Away Aged 24 appeared first on Mandatory.
