On May 17, major Taiwanese media outlets, including Sanlih News Network, reported that Taiwan’s 7-Eleven is considering legal action against actor Kim Soo-hyun. The move comes after a planned collaboration with the actor was abruptly canceled due to a growing controversy involving his personal life.
Taiwan’s 7-Eleven had originally prepared to launch a wide range of products—including food, beverages, and souvenirs featuring Kim Soo-hyun as the promotional model. The campaign was also set to include his appearance at a major festival event in Kaohsiung in March. However, following public backlash over his alleged relationship with a minor, the brand halted all promotional activities and production.
According to reports, the total financial loss incurred by 7-Eleven Taiwan is estimated at 130 million Taiwanese dollars (approximately 6 billion KRW). This includes losses from discontinued product inventory and canceled marketing campaigns. The company is now reportedly considering a lawsuit against Kim Soo-hyun’s agency to recover these damages, citing both reputational harm and direct financial loss.
While an official statement from Taiwan’s 7-Eleven has yet to be released, insiders indicate that legal preparations are underway.
The controversy centers around allegations that Kim Soo-hyun maintained a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron, starting when she was 15 or 16 years old. At that time, Kim Soo-hyun was 28, which has led to widespread criticism and legal scrutiny. The accusations were amplified by the bereaved family of a deceased individual who shared photos, handwritten letters, and audio recordings through the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute, claiming to provide evidence of the relationship. In response, Kim Soo-hyun held a press conference, admitting to a relationship with the deceased but firmly denying that it occurred while she was a minor. He has since filed defamation lawsuits against the bereaved family and Kim Se-ui, the operator of the YouTube channel, accusing them of spreading false information.
Prior to the scandal, Kim Soo-hyun was experiencing a career high following his role in the hit tvN drama Queen of Tears. He was actively involved in multiple advertising campaigns across various sectors, including fashion, cosmetics, food, electronics, and luxury brands.
In addition to potential legal action in Taiwan, Kim Soo-hyun is also reportedly facing lawsuits from several South Korean advertisers. Damages claimed by these companies are estimated at around 6 billion KRW, compounding the actor’s current legal and reputational troubles.
As both domestic and international brands reconsider their partnerships with Kim Soo-hyun, the full impact of the controversy on his career remains to be seen.