Forty-nine days after actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing, the controversy surrounding her and actor Kim Soo-hyun shows no sign of resolution. Though Kim Soo-hyun held a tearful press conference on March 31, aiming to clarify his stance, the public backlash only intensified. Allegations surrounding their alleged underage relationship, “700 million won notices” pressure and legal tensions with Kim Sae-ron’s family and the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute continue to dominate headlines.
Discrepancies in Relationship Timeline
One of the most debated issues is the length and timing of their alleged relationship. Kim Sae-ron reportedly claimed she dated Kim Soo-hyun for six years, starting at age 15. Kim Soo-hyun, however, maintains the relationship lasted only about a year and began when Kim Sae-ron was of legal adult age.
To counter allegations, Kim Soo-hyun’s side referenced forensic analysis conducted by private institution Trubaum, which claimed that messages from 2016 and 2018 were likely written by different people, while messages from 2018 and 2025 (provided by Kim Soo-hyun) likely matched Kim Soo-hyun’s writing style.
Even if the 2015–2021 relationship timeline is disputed, Kim Sae-ron left various written statements and messages to close contacts affirming a five to six-year relationship, which her family and acquaintances have echoed in testimonies.
Dispute Over Legal Notices
Kim Sae-ron’s family initially claimed that two official notices from Kim Soo-hyun’s agency Gold Medalist pressured the actress and contributed to her emotional distress prior to her death. The agency clarified the notices were merely procedural and aimed at resolving outstanding financial obligations, including a 700 million won debt.
Though the family later softened their claim from “legal intimidation” to emotional distress, texts from Kim Sae-ron indicate that she felt desperate and deceived, stating in a message to a friend:
“I have nothing, they’re basically telling me to kill myself.”
A month after receiving the notices, she reportedly attempted self-harm, as evidenced by the family’s disclosure of a photo during a March press conference.
Kim Soo-hyun’s Press Conference: A PR Misstep?
Kim Soo-hyun’s press conference failed to sway public sentiment. While he appeared emotional, many criticized the event as overly polished and self-focused. His attempt to defend his image came across as self-serving rather than empathetic toward the late actress or her grieving family.
Criticism extended to the way the press conference was presented. Gold Medalist’s post-event statement, complete with audio recordings and legal citations, made it appear overly strategic, further alienating public trust.
The Road Ahead: A Legal and Moral Reckoning
Now, the question of who’s telling the truth — and to what extent — will likely be decided in court. Kim Soo-hyun has filed both civil and criminal suits seeking 12 billion won in damages, while Kim Sae-ron’s family continues to speak out.
The 49th-day memorial of Kim Sae-ron is not only a moment of mourning but a stark reminder that celebrity, trauma and truth rarely exist without complexity. The legal battle continues, but for many, the emotional damage — and the doubts — have already been done.