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Why Kim Soo Hyun’s Press Conference Fueled More Controversy
On March 31, 2025, top Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun held an urgent press conference at Stanford Hotel in Seoul to address the growing allegations surrounding his past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron.
However, instead of engaging with the press through a Q&A, he delivered a unilateral statement and left without taking questions. This decision sparked criticism and raised doubts about the sincerity of his remarks.
His legal representative, attorney Kim Jong Bok, was present. Although Kim Soo Hyun appeared emotional and tearful, many questioned whether his reaction was genuine.
Kim Soo Hyun’s 4 Key Claims Explained
Denial of Underage Relationship Allegations
Kim Soo Hyun acknowledged that he dated Kim Sae Ron but emphasized that the relationship began in the summer of 2019, after she had reached adulthood.
He firmly denied any romantic involvement while she was a minor, directly rejecting grooming accusations. This statement was aimed at countering allegations framing him as a predatory figure.
Claims of Fabricated KakaoTalk Messages
The actor challenged the authenticity of messages released by Kim Sae Ron’s family from 2016 and 2018, arguing that they were manipulated.
He cited an analysis from a forensic firm claiming that “there is a 92% probability that the messages from those years were not written by the same person.”
However, the organization that analyzed the chats is a private institution—not a nationally certified authority. Because of this, and the fact that the results only suggest a “high possibility” rather than a conclusive finding, the public remains skeptical of the evidence presented by Kim’s legal team.
Response to Debt Pressure Allegations
In response to claims that Kim Sae Ron was under pressure to repay a 700 million won debt, Kim Soo Hyun released a recorded phone call between her agency and his former agency’s executive.
He stated that the notice of debt collection was merely a standard legal procedure and insisted that there was “no psychological pressure” involved.
The call included phrases like, “She can repay it slowly,” supporting his argument. However, the family of the late actress continues to assert that emotional pressure was very much present.
Moreover, a previously revealed text message from Kim Sae Ron, in which she pleaded, “I’m not refusing to repay the debt. I just need more time,” has raised public doubts.
Given this context, many are questioning whether there was truly no form of coercion or emotional stress involved.
Countering the Pedophile and Grooming Narrative
Toward the end of the conference, Kim Soo Hyun expressed frustration over being labeled a pedophile and groomer by the media and online communities.
He stated, “I cannot admit to something I didn’t do,” adding that accepting false accusations would betray the trust of those who supported him.
His remarks clearly signaled a shift toward a legal confrontation.
Divided Fan Reactions: Sympathy vs. Skepticism
Reactions to Kim Soo Hyun’s press conference were sharply polarized.
Supporters praised his courage and honesty, while critics accused him of delivering a scripted performance. Many online users commented that the tears seemed calculated, and the lack of press Q&A reinforced the perception of insincerity.
Some argued that the materials presented by the bereaved family—including messages and letters recovered through digital forensics—seemed more convincing than Kim’s defense.
Many netizens commented, “Star Kim Soo Hyun overshadowed human Kim Soo Hyun,” implying that the actor’s focus was more on damage control than revealing the truth.
Notably, many Korean fans drew parallels to past scandals involving Park Yoochun and Jung Joon Young, both of whom also avoided press questions during their respective controversies.
This comparison fueled the notion that Kim Soo Hyun’s press conference format was more about controlling the narrative than transparency.
Legal Response: Criminal Charges and a Massive Lawsuit
At the end of the press conference, Kim Soo Hyun’s legal team announced criminal charges and a civil lawsuit against the YouTube channel “Garo Sero Institute” and the family of Kim Sae Ron.
The case involves allegations of defamation and violation of the Information and Communications Network Act.
The civil suit, filed with the Seoul Central District Court, seeks damages amounting to 12 billion KRW (approximately 9 million USD).
However, once the size of the claim was revealed, a new wave of criticism emerged.
Many questioned whether Kim Soo Hyun was using financial means to apply further pressure on the bereaved family, likening it to an act of intimidation rather than self-defense.
What Lies Ahead for Kim Soo Hyun?
Instead of clearing up the controversy, Kim Soo Hyun’s press conference seems to have deepened the public’s doubts.
His latest drama “Knock-Off,” set to air on Disney+, has reportedly been postponed indefinitely. Several advertising deals have also been suspended.
International outlets such as BBC, Variety, and Reuters have covered the incident, suggesting that Kim Soo Hyun’s global image has taken a serious hit.
Without new evidence or a more transparent follow-up, his road to recovery appears long and uncertain.
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