Was actor Kim Soo-hyun actually involved with the late actress Kim Sae-ron during his military enlistment? Is there substantive proof of a hidden relationship in the form of letters and diary entries, or are they simply misinterpreted?
And what about the audio recording—was it real, or was it somehow fabricated using AI? These are the questions dominating South Korean headlines, and garnering attention from the public and the entertainment industry alike. However, Kim Soo-hyun’s side is adamant that the reality is not what the rumor suggests.
Let’s try to unpack the story.
Kim Soo-hyun’s Side Responds to Dating Rumors
On September 30, attorney Ko Sang-rok from Phil Law Firm, who is representing Kim Soo-hyun in his ongoing legal battles, released an official statement addressing the issue. According to him, Kim Soo-hyun’s military diaries and personal letters prove beyond doubt that the actor was in a committed relationship with his girlfriend at the time—not Kim Sae-ron.
The lawyer explained that while serving in the military, Kim Soo-hyun kept a detailed diary, recording small details about his daily life. Along with this, he also wrote letters to his then-girlfriend, which contained romantic expressions such as “I love you” and personal confessions.
On the other hand, the notes that Kim Soo-hyun exchanged with Kim Sae-ron were completely different in tone. These writings included casual updates about his day, the weather, or details of military life—nothing romantic.
Attorney Ko further added that the controversy emerged because some of these records were later misinterpreted and distorted. “Years later, when his diary notes were placed side by side with his love letters, it created the false impression that the letters were written to Kim Sae-ron during a romantic relationship. But in reality, that was not the case,” he clarified.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy started when YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute (Ga Se-yeon) alleged that Kim Soo-hyun had been in a relationship with Kim Sae-ron since she was a minor. This explosive claim immediately sparked backlash, as Kim Soo-hyun is one of Korea’s most high-profile stars with an international fanbase.
In response, his agency Gold Medalist quickly denied the allegations. However, Ga Se-yeon continued releasing supposed “evidence,” including private photos and even an audio recording said to feature Kim Sae-ron admitting she dated Kim Soo-hyun.
This recording was presented at a joint press conference by attorney Bu Ji-seok, who represents the bereaved family, alongside Ga Se-yeon. In the clip, the late actress allegedly told an acquaintance that her relationship with Kim Soo-hyun began when she was underage.
Claims of AI Manipulation
Kim Soo-hyun’s team strongly disputed the recording, calling it manipulated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. They stressed that the audio could not be trusted as genuine evidence and insisted that the truth would come out once forensic analysis was completed.
His legal team also pointed out that false information had been repeatedly spread online in attempts to damage the actor’s reputation. As a result, they announced plans to pursue strict legal action against anyone spreading defamatory or unverified claims.
Legal Actions Already Underway
The conflict has already led to a court case. Kim Soo-hyun’s side has lodged complaints against Ga Se-yeon for harassment, under the Stalking Punishment Act, and defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act.
The Seoul Central District Court also granted a limited injunction, preventing Ga Se-yeon from stalking and harassing Kim Soo-hyun. Even though Ga Se-yeon subsequently appealed, the appeal was dismissed. This was viewed as a modest yet notable victory for Kim Soo-hyun because this ruling legally recognized the harassment he endured.
Meanwhile, the contested audio recording has been sent to the National Forensic Service (NFS) for professional investigation. The findings, which are anticipated to demonstrate whether the audio recording was tampered with, have not yet been disclosed.
Why This Matters
Kim Soo-hyun, who has appeared in hit dramas such as My Love From the Star, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, and Queen of Tears, described this situation as not merely protecting his privacy but protecting his career and public image.
The actor is regarded as one of the highest-paid and most respected actors in South Korea. Any controversy related to alleged improper relationships, particularly one with a minor, could be damaging to his professional future. This is why there is a concerted effort from his management agency and legal representatives to clear his name and set the record straight.
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Conclusion
As of now, Kim Soo-hyun’s team remains firm in their position:
- He never dated Kim Sae-ron during his military service.
- His diary and love letters clearly show that he was romantically involved with his girlfriend at the time.
- The so-called “evidence,” including the audio recording, is allegedly distorted or manipulated.
Until the forensic results of the recording are made public, the controversy will likely continue to stir debates among fans and netizens. However, Kim Soo-hyun’s side has made it clear that they will take all necessary steps to protect the actor from false rumors and malicious attacks.
In short, the case now hinges on whether the recording is proven genuine or fabricated. Until then, Kim Soo-hyun’s team is standing firm that the dating rumors with Kim Sae-ron are baseless and misleading.
