Kim Soo-hyun’s legal team pursues identity of woman in defamation case linked to Kim Sae-ron allegations

South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has found himself at the center of a major controversy following serious allegations involving the late actress Kim Sae-ron. A woman claiming to be Sae-ron’s aunt alleged that the Queen of Tears star had a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron when she was still a minor—a claim that Soo-hyun has strongly denied.

In response, Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medallist, has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking 12 billion KRW in damages. The lawsuit targets several parties, including Sae-ron’s family and the controversial YouTube channel GaroSero, which initially amplified the claims. The supposed "evidence" presented by the accusers included handwritten letters, KakaoTalk messages, and photos.

The situation escalated as LKB & Partners, representing Kim Soo-hyun, issued a statement via Daum, confirming they are working to uncover the real identity of the woman described as the “so-called aunt.” According to the firm, key identifiers—name, phone number, and resident registration number—have yet to be verified.

“We are confident that her identity will be established,” stated the legal team. “Once we verify even one piece of information, we can use official channels to uncover her identity. Since a criminal complaint has also been filed, investigative authorities are now obliged to trace her.”

Meanwhile, YouTuber Lee Jin Ho, known for previously discussing Kim Sae-ron’s personal life, has also entered the legal fray, threatening action over misinformation tied to his name. He has denied any claims connecting Soo-hyun to the circumstances surrounding Sae-ron’s passing.

Adding further complexity, the bereaved family has publicly defended the woman, asserting, “She is Sae-ron’s aunt. She meant no harm.”

Gold Medallist has also refuted misinformation surrounding a viral image tied to the scandal. The agency clarified that the controversial photo was taken in 2020, not 2016 as originally alleged. They confirmed that while Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron were in a relationship, it occurred between 2019 and 2020, well after she reached adulthood.

As the investigation unfolds, Kim Soo-hyun’s legal team continues to stress the importance of establishing the truth and holding the spreaders of false information accountable.