On May 7, 2025, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, GOLDMEDALIST, released a firm rebuttal to explosive claims made during a press conference by late actress Kim Sae-ron’s family and YouTube channel HoverLab. Central to the controversy was an audio recording that allegedly captured Kim Sae-ron discussing a relationship with Kim Soo-hyun during her teenage years. The agency unequivocally denied the recording’s legitimacy, asserting it was a fabrication generated using artificial intelligence. GOLDMEDALIST stated that the recording had previously been sent to them in an attempt to solicit financial compensation—an offer the agency refused.
GOLDMEDALIST further claimed that the person who initially sent the recording had no known connection to Kim Sae-ron, and that the audio could not have been legally obtained. After the failed extortion attempt, this individual allegedly collaborated with HoverLab to publicize the AI-generated clip. The agency has launched a technical forensic analysis of the audio, with results expected to be released soon. They reiterated their position that the recording was a malicious attempt to damage Kim Soo-hyun’s reputation and vowed to take legal action accordingly.
At the same press conference, HoverLab also showcased what they called an “attack photo,” allegedly proving physical harm caused by GOLDMEDALIST or its legal team. The agency countered that the image was, in fact, a generic stock photo available on the internet and bore no connection to the parties involved. GOLDMEDALIST denounced the press conference as a coordinated cyberattack, accusing the individuals behind it of having prior records of stalking, defamation, and malicious online activity.
The case took a pivotal turn on May 10, 2025, when the whistleblower publicly admitted that the audio was artificially created and completely fabricated. This confession shifted the narrative dramatically, clearing Kim Soo-hyun of the gravest accusations levied against him and underscoring the growing threat of misinformation created through AI technologies. The actor’s supporters and legal team cited this as a “vindication of truth.”
Following the developments, on May 12, 2025, Kim Soo-hyun and GOLDMEDALIST officially filed criminal complaints against the individuals and entities involved in spreading the falsehoods. This includes charges of defamation, digital stalking, and distribution of falsified content. GOLDMEDALIST stated that they are prepared to see the legal battle through to protect not only the actor but also the broader entertainment community from similar attacks.
Public sentiment has largely shifted in Kim Soo-hyun’s favor since the whistleblower’s confession. Multiple high-profile figures in the South Korean entertainment industry have expressed support, including producers, co-stars, and veteran actors. Online communities and fan bases have rallied behind the actor with hashtags like #JusticeForSooHyun trending globally. The public is now demanding accountability from those who orchestrated the smear campaign.
International platforms have also shown continued support. Netflix Korea confirmed on May 13, 2025, that they have “no plans to alter or cancel any ongoing projects” featuring Kim Soo-hyun. Meanwhile, fans in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and New York have organized physical and digital banners in solidarity, demonstrating the global resonance of this scandal and its resolution.
As the legal proceedings gain momentum, GOLDMEDALIST has urged the public and media to prioritize due process and fact-based reporting. The agency concluded their May 14, 2025, press note by stating, “We will no longer remain silent in the face of malicious slander. Truth will prevail—and so will Kim Soo-hyun.”
