Actor Kim Soo Hyun is under intense scrutiny as public backlash continues to mount following his team’s recent response to allegations of a past inappropriate relationship with actress Kim Sae Ron during her time as a minor. The controversy, originally ignited by whistleblower channel Garo Sero Institute, resurfaced after they presented photo evidence allegedly showing Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron in intimate settings, including a now-infamous “Soju Date” image said to be from June 2018.

Kim Soo Hyun’s Response Sparks More Questions

Kim Soo Hyun’s agency addressed five circulating images, offering rebuttals claiming that:

• Some images were taken after Kim Sae Ron turned 18.
• Others did not involve Kim Soo Hyun at all.
• One specific photo of the soju date was explained as a family gathering where his relatives were also present at his home.

However, netizens quickly rejected the explanation, pointing out glaring inconsistencies and raising further concerns:

“So she came to his house at 11 PM, cooked spicy chicken stew, and drank soju—while being a minor? That’s not a clarification. That’s a confirmation.”

“Even if the family was present, it doesn’t make the situation any better. Why was she there at that hour in the first place?”

“Where’s the proof of the family being there? These are just words. Show receipts.”

“If they weren’t in a relationship, then it’s worse—what are you saying about the grooming aspect then?”

Accusations of Grooming and Inappropriate Conduct

The core of the controversy revolves around Kim Sae Ron’s age at the time and the nature of their interactions. While Kim Soo Hyun’s side insists that their relationship was not romantic and that his family’s presence neutralizes the claims, critics argue that inviting a minor to his home at night—regardless of the context—is inappropriate and alarming.

Some comments also addressed the alleged lack of photographic evidence supporting the actor’s claims, criticizing the attempt to dismiss the scandal without transparency:

“Don’t insult the public’s intelligence. If there’s no proof of your family being there, your words mean nothing.”

“Why drink alcohol at all? That detail alone is concerning.”

Public Trust Deteriorating

The incident has left many fans and general netizens with a soured view of the actor, especially as the drama unfolds with little tangible evidence to support his side. For now, Kim Soo Hyun’s reputation—long considered spotless in the industry—faces one of its most serious challenges yet.

As of now, no legal action has been announced, and the actor’s agency has not responded further to the growing public backlash.