Kim Soo-hyun Addresses Underage Dating Allegations, Issues Public Apology

SEOUL, South Korea — Actor Kim Soo-hyun publicly apologized Monday for the distress caused by allegations of underage dating, marking his first direct response to the ongoing controversy that emerged earlier this month.

During a press conference at the Stanford Hotel in Mapo District, Kim stated, “I am sorry for causing so much pain to many people,” and expressed sorrow that the late actress Kim Sae-ron, connected to the allegations, “seems unable to rest in peace.” Kim Sae-ron passed away last month.

The allegations surfaced via the YouTube channel Hoverlab and claims from Kim Sae-ron’s family, igniting a public exchange of accusations. Kim Soo-hyun, known for prominent roles in series like “Queen of Tears,” “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” and “My Love from the Star,” emphasized that he did not engage in a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron while she was underage, denying any involvement leading to her tragic fate.

“The deceased and I dated for about one year four years ago, before ‘Queen of Tears’ aired. At that time, I denied the rumors,” he said. “But it is not true that I dated her when she was underage. It is also not true that she made the fatal decision due to financial pressure from my agency.”

Kim detailed the anxiety stemming from the situation and the pressure he faced, stating, “It took me so long to finally stand here. Whenever my private life was exposed, I was thinking, ‘Let’s share it all tomorrow,’ or ‘Let’s end this hellish situation.'” He described his feelings of being coerced into acknowledging falsehoods about his past relationship.

Allegations regarding the relationship date back to March 10 when Hoverlab’s claims suggested an ongoing pattern of dating when Kim Sae-ron was still a minor. The actress’s family reportedly provided evidence supporting their claims during a press conference last week, including alleged conversations between the two that took place when Kim was 28 and Kim Sae-ron was 15.

Bu Ji-seok, an attorney representing Kim Sae-ron’s family, shared details regarding KakaoTalk messages between the two actors, suggesting interactions beyond friendship. The release of these messages added intensity to the claims against Kim Soo-hyun.

“If they were in a sexual relationship at that age, it would constitute a criminal offense. If not, then it risks being classified as sexual grooming,” Bu stated during his press conference. He called for accountability, emphasizing Kim’s need for an apology.

In response to mounting public scrutiny, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Goldmedalist, initially denied the rumors but later acknowledged a relationship that reportedly began after Kim Sae-ron turned 19. Kim’s previous relationship timeline contradicted claims of them being involved as early as 2015.

As the controversy escalates, Kim Soo-hyun faces significant repercussions, including appearances being cut from variety shows and delays in his upcoming projects. The actor’s scheduled meeting with fans in Taiwan was canceled due to his ongoing circumstances.

This situation remains fluid, with both Kim Soo-hyun and the actress’s family engaged in a contentious legal discourse over the allegations. The public awaits further developments as both sides prepare for what lies ahead.