Currently embroiled in controversy over allegations that he dated Kim Sae Ron when she was only 15 years old, Kim Soo Hyun has been facing a media storm fueled by the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, which has continuously released alleged footage and images of the actor at Kim Sae Ron’s home. On the evening of March 19, Money Today reported that despite the backlash, social media was flooded with posts praising Kim Soo Hyun.
One viral post suggested that Garo Sero Institute’s videos unintentionally portrayed Kim Soo Hyun as a considerate and gentle partner. The post read, “Kim Soo Hyun is so sweet and caring. He’s truly the number one ideal husband for women. When Kim Sae Ron had hiccups, he gently patted her back. Not only that, but he even washed the dishes for her! I’m jealous I can’t deny how endearing and charming he is.” Fans eagerly embraced the sentiment, commenting, “We should start calling him ‘Gentle Kim’ now” and “I’m melting over his warm and thoughtful demeanor.”
Another post compared Kim Soo Hyun’s real-life behavior to that of a romantic male lead in a drama, stating, “Is Garo Sero Institute trying to make everyone envious? A boyfriend who pats his girlfriend’s back when she has hiccups and even uses honorifics when talking to her he’s like a drama protagonist come to life.”
While many fans praised Kim Soo Hyun’s actions despite the ongoing controversy, others strongly criticized this response. Detractors questioned why fans were glorifying him when the allegations had not yet been resolved. Some comments included, “Are these fans even thinking straight? Do they not understand the seriousness of the situation?“, “What kind of ‘ideal husband’ gets caught up in a scandal involving a minor?” and “The truth hasn’t even been revealed yet, but they’re already singing his praises. Do they want to create more anti-fans for him?“
Given the severity of the accusations, critics urged fans to remain rational and wait for accurate conclusions before forming opinions.
Meanwhile, Kim Soo Hyun’s agency Gold Medalist has reportedly divided its crisis response into three teams: Legal Team – A law firm is overseeing all legal matters; Media Management Team – Monitoring news coverage, managing PR, and handling advertising contracts; Crisis Response Team – Comprising internal and external experts, gathering testimonies from those close to Kim Sae Ron to reconstruct events leading up to her passing.
A press conference or release of information from Kim Sae Ron’s close contacts could be a crucial move to shift public perception. However, speculation remains on whether Gold Medalist has substantial evidence or if they are merely trying to protect their reputation.
