Kim Soo-hyun’s Fans Dismiss Kim Sae-ron’s Family’s Allegations, Public Expresses Mixed Reactions
Following the press conference held by the family of the late actress Kim Sae-ron, where they released a voice recording alleging that Kim Soo-hyun had a relationship with her during her underage years, reactions from Kim Soo-hyun’s fandom have drawn significant attention online.
At the emergency press conference on May 7, Attorney Boo Ji-seok of law firm Buyou, representing Kim Sae-ron’s family, revealed they had filed a complaint against Kim Soo-hyun for violating the Child Welfare Act and calumny. According to the family, Kim engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior starting during Kim Sae-ron’s second year of middle school. They also alleged that a whistleblower was offered billions of won to stay silent and faced threats after refusing.
Concerns were also raised about potential stalking, as suspicious vehicles were reportedly spotted near the home of Kim Sae-ron’s aunt. The family has requested police protection for both themselves and the operator of a YouTube channel supporting their claims.
Online, Kim Soo-hyun’s fans have offered mixed responses. Some mocked the press conference, leaving comments such as “They look scared now” and “This is today’s comedy gold.” Others, however, defended the actor seriously with statements like “I don’t believe baseless claims” and “We support you, Kim Soo-hyun.”
In contrast, the general public reaction has been more cautious and critical. Comments include, “If that recording is real, this is shocking”, “Stalking is a serious crime” and “Blind support isn’t the answer—we should be seeking the truth.”
On the afternoon of May 7, ahead of the press conference announced by the family of the late Kim Sae-ron regarding criminal allegations against Kim Soo-hyun, support trucks sent by fans (said to be from Chinese fans) were spotted near the press conference venue in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
Korean netizens left comments such as “Get your heads on straight, you lot”, “Didn’t Chinese fans already burn his merch and stuff? The handful that remain must be desperately clinging on” and “Sure, go down with him.”
Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun has filed defamation lawsuits against Kim Sae-ron’s family, the aunt and the associated YouTube channel, seeking ₩12 billion KRW (~$9 million USD) in damages. His legal team also announced additional lawsuits targeting malicious online posts and commenters.
As the controversy unfolds, the stark divide between fandom loyalty and public scrutiny continues to shape the narrative around this highly sensitive case.