Fans Demand Kim Soo-hyun Not Cut from Broadcasts: Even Bullies Still Appear on TV
Recently, SBS aired an episode of “Kick a Goal” (골 때리는 그녀들), featuring weathercaster Kim Ga-young. She had previously been named in the workplace bullying case involving the late announcer Oh Yoanna. The episode showed her joining the list of new players being considered for a team, prompting backlash from viewers.
In response, a previously published statement from Kim Soo-hyun’s fandom has resurfaced, demanding clarity and consistency in how broadcast station handle celebrities with controversies.
“We ask that Kim Soo-hyun’s broadcasting activities be respected,” the fan community said in the statement, adding, “We express deep concern over the narrative that he should be banned from public appearances based solely on unverified allegations.”
They went on to argue that, “Figures involved in confirmed workplace bullying cases (referring to the Oh Yoanna case) continue to appear on TV, and even politicians involved in legal disputes complete their terms unless ruled otherwise by the Supreme Court. Why is Kim Soo-hyun being singled out?”
Highlighting the perceived double standard, the statement read, “Demanding his immediate removal from programs is not only unfair but also inconsistent with how similar issues are handled. Kim Soo-hyun has the right to defend himself and respond to these claims. We ask that judgment be based on verified facts and equal standards.”
On the other hand, Kim Soo-hyun is currently facing allegations of having had a romantic relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron while she was still a minor. Although he has categorically denied these accusations during a public press conference held on March 31, skepticism remains strong among the public.
In particular, the actor’s use of a private firm rather than an official forensic body has drawn criticism, with legal experts stating that his evidence lacks formal credibility. Additionally, Kim Soo-hyun’s announcement of a ₩12 billion (approx. $9 million USD) defamation lawsuit against Kim Sae-ron’s family and a YouTube channel has only intensified public debate.
Meanwhile, Kim Ga-young, who was accused of being involved in a group chat that bullied Oh Yo-anna, returned to TV despite earlier controversy. Oh, who joined MBC in 2021, tragically passed away in 2023. A suicide note later revealed that she had suffered from workplace bullying. Kim was reportedly one of the members involved but has now reappeared in broadcasting, prompting viewers to question broadcasting standards.
Kim Soo-hyun’s fandom continues to call for fair media practices, emphasizing that unproven allegations should not be grounds for career-ending consequences without due process.