After the tragic death of his ex-girlfriend, South Korean actress Kim Sae Ron, in February 2025, actor Kim Soo Hyun faced significant backlash. Allegations surfaced claiming that Kim Soo Hyun had been in a relationship with Kim Sae Ron when she was underage. Although Kim Soo Hyun has denied the accusations, the controversy has caused major public criticism and led to the loss of several brand endorsements, Instagram followers, and public support.
Amidst this turmoil, Kim Soo Hyun's Chinese fanbase has taken a stand in his support. This comes after his global fans launched a petition to safeguard the actor's reputation from what they called an online public trial.
Kim Soo Hyun's fan club, KSHBar, founded in 2019 and with over 1 million members, is rallying behind the actor with a bold display of support. The fan club, which has also hired a lawyer to pursue legal action against trolls, recently took their support to the streets with a massive LED truck display, driving around with messages of hope and solidarity. They've deployed 25 LED trucks in busy Seoul areas, showcasing the powerful slogan "Truth Will Prevail." Some trucks are even parked outside Disney Korea's office, making a statement.
In a letter to Sports Donga on April 27, the fan club shared the reasoning behind their campaign. Signed by "1 million Chinese fans of Kim Soo Hyun," the letter reveals that they've reached a breaking point and can no longer stay silent. They're standing up against the "serious spread of false rumours and reckless cyberbullying" that's been targeting the actor.
A month after the death of Kim Sae Ron, YouTube channel?Garosero Research Institute, led by former MBC reporter Kim Se Ui, sparked controversy by featuring a woman who claimed to be Sae Ron¡¯s aunt. She accused Kim Soo Hyun of having a romantic relationship with Sae Ron when she was just 15, while he was 27. The accusation sent shockwaves through Hallyuwood, with many on social media turning against Kim Soo Hyun in support of Sae Ron.
In response to the allegations, Kim Soo Hyun held a press conference on March 31. He admitted to having had a relationship with the late actress but firmly denied any involvement with her when she was underage. Despite his defence, the situation doesn't seem to improve, with the actor's Disney+ drama Knock Off postponed indefinitely.?
As Kim Soo Hyun continues to face relentless trolling and harsh backlash, his agency, GOLDMEDALIST, announced that they would take legal action against those spreading false rumours that were tarnishing his image.
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