“Unable to repay the amount, Kim Sae Ron faced financial hardship and ultimately took her own life on Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday,” the woman alleged in a YouTube interview on GaroSaero Research with former journalist Kim Se Ui on Monday, as reported by South Korean news site Nate.
She claimed that in 2019, when Kim Soo Hyun founded his agency Gold Medalist, Kim Sae Ron joined instead of renewing her contract with YG Entertainment. At the time, they were allegedly in a relationship, and she helped establish the agency by scouting talent and providing acting lessons.
Their relationship reportedly ended in 2022 after Kim Sae Ron’s DUI incident. The alleged aunt stated that Kim Soo Hyun and Gold Medalist intervened, offering to handle the fallout and paying 700 million won in compensation, without initially requiring reimbursement.
During a private conversation, Kim Sae Ron had expressed gratitude for Kim Soo Hyun’s financial support and intended to repay him in the future, the woman added.
After her contract with Gold Medalist expired, Kim Sae Ron reportedly received a demand in 2024 to return the 700 million won. Shocked, she tried to contact Kim Soo Hyun, but he allegedly ignored her calls, including those made from her cousin’s phone. The woman further alleged that shortly after, journalists began calling Kim Sae Ron’s cousin requesting interviews, leading the actress to suspect Kim Soo Hyun had leaked her contact information.
Amid the broadcast of “Queen of Tears”, Kim Soo Hyun’s drama, Kim Sae Ron posted an old photo of them together on Instagram, allegedly hoping to prompt a response. However, the woman claimed Kim Soo Hyun and Gold Medalist continued to ignore her.
She also stated that the family has evidence of a six-year relationship between Kim Sae Ron and Kim Soo Hyun, beginning when the actress was 15 and he was 27.
On Monday, Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, denied the allegations and announced legal action against the spread of false information.
South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun. Photo courtesy of Kim’s Instagram
Kim Sae Ron was found deceased at her home in Seoul on Feb. 16 by a friend, with no signs of foul play. Her funeral was held on Feb. 19.
The actress was known for making history as the youngest South Korean artist to attend the Cannes Film Festival for her debut role in the 2009 movie “A Brand New Life.” She was also the youngest actress to be nominated for Best Actress at the prestigious Baeksang Awards in South Korea.
However, her career declined after her drunk driving incident, which caused her to lose film projects and endorsement deals.
Kim Soo Hyun, 37, made his television debut in 2007 and became a major figure in South Korea with successful series such as “Dream High,” “The Moon Embracing the Sun,” “My Love from the Star,” “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” and “Queen of Tears.”
Having started his acting career in his school years, he now stands as one of the top-earning actors in South Korea, consistently commanding the highest average pay per episode, according to local media.
In addition to his acting career, Kim Soo Hyun also earns significant income through endorsement deals with prominent brands.
