Legal Experts Say Kim Soo-hyun Could Face Charges If Kim Sae-ron’s Audio Is Real
As the bereaved family of late actress Kim Sae-ron has filed charges against Kim Soo-hyun for violating the Child Welfare Act, legal experts say that if the released audio recording is proven to be genuine, prosecution may be possible.
Attorney Noh Jong-eon of Law Firm Jonjae stated in an interview with TV Report, “If the evidence released by Kim Sae-ron’s family is genuine, it could become an important lead for police investigations.”
However, he explained, “In sex crime cases, the victim’s consistent testimony is key. But since the victim has sadly passed away, it’s difficult to secure additional evidence. The outcome of the investigation will depend on how actively the police pursue further inquiry.”
He continued, “For a Child Welfare Act violation to be established, the case must be quite complex. It’s not just about whether there was sexual activity—it must also involve emotional abuse. While the public may feel strong suspicions, we must not overlook the principle of ‘presumption of innocence’.”
He added, “An indictment must specify the time, place and method of the crime. There is a recording, but no further testimony, which means there’s a lack of material to use in an indictment. The police must conduct thorough interviews with surrounding witnesses and examine the accused, Kim Soo-hyun, in detail to substantiate the case. The outcome will depend on the police’s level of commitment.”
Finally, he commented, “This case is closely tied to a potential penalty involving Disney+’s Knock-Off. If Kim Soo-hyun has been falsely accused, he could sue the family for damages. Conversely, if the family’s claims are true, Kim Soo-hyun could be liable for tens of billions of won in penalty fees. Since this case is such a major public issue, the police are likely feeling significant pressure regarding the investigation.”
Under the Child Welfare Act, physical or emotional abuse of a child can be punished by up to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million KRW. Failure to protect or neglect of a child also carries the same penalties.
Sexual abuse of a minor carries even more severe punishment: up to 10 years in prison or fines of up to 100 million KRW for coercing obscene acts or engaging in sexual misconduct.
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency Gold Medalist previously released an official statement ahead of the family’s emergency press conference, expressing concern over “what other false claims may be spread”. The agency has maintained that Kim Soo-hyun only began dating Kim Sae-ron after she became an adult.