Police Intervene as Garo Sero Institute Defies Court Order in Kim Soo-hyun Stalking Case
The controversial YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute has come under fire again after airing a broadcast featuring actor Kim Soo-hyun, despite a court-issued temporary anti-stalking order. The broadcast, which occurred on June 13 around 7 p.m., prompted police intervention at the channel’s studio in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam, Seoul.
The incident was triggered by viewer reports, who noticed Kim Soo-hyun’s face and name used in the livestream’s thumbnail. Citing a violation of the court’s April 23 ruling against Garo Sero Institute CEO Kim Se-ui, the viewers reported the broadcast to authorities, prompting a swift police response.
Upon arrival, police reportedly issued a verbal warning to Kim Se-ui and his team, reminding them of the restrictions. While the exact contents of the warning remain undisclosed, law enforcement confirmed the visit and acknowledged the public concern.
During the broadcast, Kim Se-ui openly criticized the police presence, claiming, “They rang the doorbell during a live broadcast this is a clear case of media oppression.”
Earlier in April, the Seoul Central District Court had issued a temporary restraining order instructing Kim Se-ui to cease all acts deemed as stalking toward Kim Soo-hyun. The order was upheld after an appeal was rejected by the court.
The conflict stems from Kim Se-ui’s repeated claims since March that Kim Soo-hyun had a romantic relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron during her minor years allegations Kim Soo-hyun has firmly denied. The actor has since filed criminal charges against Kim Se-ui for stalking, defamation, and violating sexual violence laws, alongside a civil suit demanding 12 billion KRW (~$8.7 million USD) in damages.
Kim Soo-hyun’s legal team has already obtained asset seizures on Garo Sero’s real estate and donation accounts. Meanwhile, Kim Se-ui continues to fuel the controversy, claiming to possess audio recordings from a U.S.-based acquaintance of the late Kim Sae-ron, and has held press conferences repeating his allegations.
The saga has escalated into a multi-front legal and media battle, raising broader concerns over YouTube journalism ethics, privacy rights, and the enforcement of Korea’s anti-stalking laws.