Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron scandal: 9 updates this week

Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron have dominated headlines over the past few days, sparking intense debate across the entertainment industry and on the Internet. From a tearful press conference and billion-won lawsuits to social media fallout and explosive new allegations, here’s a rundown of every major moment:

#1. Kim Soo Hyun’s First Appearance & Public Apology
On March 31 at 4:30 PM KST, Kim Soo Hyun held a press conference in a black formal suit. He admitted he had once been romantically involved with Kim Sae Ron, apologized for previously denying the relationship, and affirmed that none of this occurred when she was a minor.

#2. Admission of Relationship & Clarification
Despite initially refusing to comment on rumors, Kim Soo Hyun acknowledged that a selfie posted by Kim Sae Ron was legitimate evidence of their dating. However, he remained firm that their romance happened after she became an adult.

#3. Emotional Breakdown & Public Reaction
During the press conference, Kim Soo Hyun broke down in tears. While some sympathized, others accused him of acting, comparing the moment to his K-dramas.

#4. Legal Action Against Kim Sae Ron’s Family & Others
Kim Soo Hyun announced plans to sue for 12 billion KRW but filed official documents for 11 billion KRW instead. The lawsuit targets Kim Sae Ron’s family, a self-proclaimed aunt, and members of the YouTube channel Garosero Institute.

#5. Rise of the ‘Kim Soo Hyun Prevention Act
A petition was filed with the National Assembly aiming to raise the statutory rape age from 16 to 19 and push harsher punishments. The petitioner argued that existing laws were letting celebrities “off the hook” for their behavior.

#6. Financial Trouble at GOLDMEDALIST
Kim Soo Hyun’s agency is reportedly bleeding funds amid the scandal. With endorsements refunded and events canceled, they are seemingly seeking external investment to stay afloat.

#7. More Garosero Allegations
The Garosero Institute released additional photos and alleged chat logs between Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron on April 2, allegedly showing they dated while she was a minor. Kim Soo Hyun’s team quickly countered, asserting misinterpretation of the evidence.

#8. Social Media Fallout
Celebrities following Kim Soo Hyun on Instagram faced backlash. Im Siwan and Ahn Bo Hyun unfollowed everyone on their accounts, potentially to avoid targeted accusations. Jung Hae In, who still followed Kim Soo Hyun, also came under online scrutiny.

#9. Tax Evasion Allegation
A netizen lodged a complaint with the National Tax Service, claiming suspicious financial discrepancies tied to Kim Soo Hyun’s reported profits. The NTS deemed it “valid,” meaning an official investigation could be underway, adding another layer of drama to the scandal.