New Delhi: South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun has initiated fresh legal proceedings against the family of late actress Kim Sae Ron and the Garo Sero Research Institute operator Kim Se Ui.
According to a report by Koreaboo, these actions follow the Queen of Tears actor’s ongoing defamation and false accusation case already filed against the same parties.
An official statement was released on June 23 by Soo Hyun’s legal team, LKB & Partners, confirming that further criminal complaints had been submitted. It was explained that both the actor and his agency, Gold Medalist, were pursuing the matter in response to inflammatory claims made during a press conference held by Kim Se Ui on May 7.
During the press briefing, a voice recording allegedly featuring Kim Sae Ron was played. It was claimed that the audio proved a romantic relationship between her and Soo Hyun, which was said to have begun while she was still a minor. Even more seriously, it was alleged that Soo Hyun had offered ₩4.00 billion (approx. $2.91 million) to suppress the recording, and had later resorted to physical violence when the demand was refused. Accusations of child welfare violations were also levelled.
What legal actions has Kim Soo Hyun taken?
However, the It’s Okay To Not Be Okay actor’s lawyers strongly denied these allegations, asserting that the audio had been artificially generated using AI deep voice technology. According to the statement, “Kim Se Ui and Kim Sae Ron’s family went beyond spreading false information, filing a criminal complaint based on forged evidence.” It was further noted that the submission of manipulated and fabricated content was considered a “serious case of false accusation.”
These new charges follow a ₩12 billion (approx. $8.74 million) damages suit and a defamation and sexual crimes charge already brought forth by Kim Soo Hyun and his agency. It was reiterated that the actor and his legal team remain determined to protect his name and pursue the matter to its legal conclusion.
What is the controversy surrounding Kim Soo Hyun?
The controversy had been fuelled by speculation surrounding a romantic involvement between Soo Hyun and the late actress. It was reportedly initiated when Kim Sae Ron was still underage. After her tragic passing by suicide in February 2025, the scandal escalated, leading to leaked photos and unverified allegations. Although Gold Medalist confirmed a short relationship, it was clarified that it had occurred after Sae Ron had reached the legal age. A condolence payment to the family was withheld to avoid misinterpretation, especially after a semi-nude photo of the actor had been leaked.
Kim Soo Hyun’s legal team has vowed to ensure full accountability for all parties involved.