Public sentiment has started to shift in favor of actor Kim Soo Hyun as doubts grow over the allegations linking him romantically to the late actress Kim Sae Ron. The scandal, which began in March, initially drew massive attention and criticism. However, nearly three months later, the absence of solid evidence and emerging inconsistencies in the accusers’ narrative have led many to question whether Kim was falsely accused.
The allegations originated from Kim Sae Ron’s family and the controversial YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute (Gaseyeon), claiming that Kim Soo Hyun had been dating Kim Sae Ron since she was 15. However, new information reveals that from 2016 to 2019, Kim was in a confirmed relationship with another actress, a fellow agency member. Letters from his military service to this actress disprove the timeline of the alleged relationship with Kim Sae Ron.
Further discrediting the allegations, it has come to light that Kim Sae Ron may have dated other individuals as a minor. A photo used as supposed evidence of her relationship with Kim Soo Hyun was actually taken with an iPhone model released after she turned 19, invalidating the claim. Additionally, alleged relationships with other public figures have surfaced, complicating the narrative and raising doubts about the original story.
The situation escalated when Gaseyeon claimed their whistleblower was violently attacked in the U.S., reporting nine stab wounds to the neck. This story later unraveled when the person altered the report to an arm injury, and medical records confirmed only minor wounds to the shoulder and hand. The New York Consulate also stated no official report was filed, further damaging the credibility of the accusations.
Despite public support swinging in Kim Soo Hyun’s favor, his Disney+ series Knock-Off remains in limbo. The show, which had a hefty budget and an almost completed second season, was left out of Disney Korea’s 2025 lineup announcement. Disney Korea has not offered any concrete update, only stating that internal reviews are ongoing and legal clarity is required before a release date can be confirmed.
Meanwhile, Kim continues to enjoy strong international popularity. His iconic drama My Love from the Star is being aired in Brazil and set for rebroadcast in Taiwan. Fans have taken to social media in support of his return, and co-star Jo Bo Ah has expressed hope that the efforts behind Knock-Off will eventually be rewarded. Kim Soo Hyun is currently suing Gaseyeon and Kim Sae Ron’s family for defamation, stalking, and other charges, seeking damages worth approximately $8.7 million. The ultimate resolution awaits legal proceedings, which could also determine the fate of his long-awaited comeback series.
