Did They Forget About Late Lee Sun-kyun? Kim Soo-hyun Caught in Controversy as Late Kim Sae-ron’s Name Resurfaces
Since March 10, Garo Sero Research Institute has been making claims based on reports from Kim Sae-ron’s bereaved family. They allege that she had been in a six-year relationship with Kim Soo-hyun starting from the age of 15.
Leaked Personal Photos
Particularly shocking was the release of personal photos, including one showing them kissing, which sent online discussions into a frenzy. On March 14, the channel even threatened to release more images, keeping Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron’s names trending in a heated debate. They also declared their intent to sue Kim Soo-hyun for defamation of the deceased.
Garo Sero’s History of Harm
However, many recognize Garo Sero Research Institute as a “cyber-wrecker” channel, comparing it to online vultures that exploit scandals for profit. Claiming to support Kim Sae-ron’s family, the channel has been soliciting donations, even posting bank account details for contributions. During a broadcast on March 14, they openly stated their goal of reaching one million subscribers.
Cyber-wreckers have harmed numerous celebrities, including IVE’s Jang Won-young, NewJeans, and YouTuber Tzuyang. A year ago, actor Lee Sun-kyun tragically took his own life after being bombarded with malicious comments driven by online sensationalism. The reckless spread of unchecked information, disguised as the “right to know,” continues to fuel controversy and remains a serious ethical issue.
Impact on Kim Soo-hyun’s Career
Now, Kim Soo-hyun is facing similar fallout. The scandal is already affecting his career, with repercussions in the advertising industry and uncertainty surrounding his upcoming projects, including the variety show “Good Day.” Even Garo Sero Research Institute’s alleged source claimed to be Kim Sae-ron’s mother. This source expressed concern that Kim Soo-hyun might make an extreme decision.
Despite this, Garo Sero Research Institute persists in its campaign, stating, “We won’t release the dishwashing photo today because we feel sorry for him,” and even suggesting they might release video footage if the family agrees. Meanwhile, Kim Sae-ron’s name continues to circulate online, further distressing her loved ones.
In a lengthy statement released by Garo Sero Research Institute on behalf of Kim Sae-ron’s family, they focused less on Kim Soo-hyun. Instead, they expressed frustration with fake news and cyber-wreckers, calling for institutional reforms. The legal battle is already underway. Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, has announced firm legal action, while Garo Sero Research Institute has also vowed to fight in court.
Later that day, Gold Medalist issued an emergency statement clarifying two key points. They acknowledged Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron’s past relationship but stated that it began in the summer of 2019, after she became an adult, and ended in the fall of 2020. Additionally, they emphasized that the 700-million-won compensation notice sent to Kim Sae-ron was not meant as pressure or coercion.
At this critical moment, a fact-based, measured approach is urgently needed to counteract the rising speculation and online misinformation.