Journalist who had exposed Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Sae Ron's relationship died mysteriously in 2023; netizens revisit reports

Following the latest revelations in the Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Sae Ron case, netizens have begun speculating about whether Kim Yong Ho’s past reports had made him a target.

The South Korean entertainment industry has been rocked by an explosive dating scandal involving actors Kim Soo Hyun and the late Kim Sae Ron. However, at the center of this controversy lies an even darker mystery—the sudden and suspicious death of journalist Kim Yong Ho, the man who first exposed their alleged relationship.

Kim Yong Ho, a former reporter and founder of Garosero Research Institute, was one of the first to claim that Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron were romantically involved, despite denials from both sides. His reports, dating back to 2015, resurfaced following the latest leaks, reigniting interest in his work. However, what has drawn even more attention is the manner of his death in October 2023.

Authorities found Kim Yong Ho’s body in a hotel room in Busan, officially ruling his death a suicide. At the time, he was embroiled in legal troubles, including a sexual harassment case that resulted in a suspended prison sentence, community service, and mandatory education on sexual misconduct. Despite these charges, many believe his sudden demise is linked to his investigative work.

Following the latest revelations in the Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Sae Ron case, netizens have begun speculating about whether Kim Yong Ho’s past reports had made him a target. His YouTube channel, known for exposing high-profile scandals, had previously uncovered controversies surrounding top stars like Jun Ji Hyun, Song Hye Kyo, and Seo Ye Ji. But his persistent focus on Kim Soo Hyun’s alleged relationship with Kim Sae Ron has now raised questions about whether his work was silenced.

With Garosero Research Institute back in the spotlight, new claims have emerged, suggesting that the platform possesses crucial evidence regarding Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron’s relationship. These include private photographs and a diary allegedly detailing a six-year affair—contradicting Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, which insists the relationship lasted only from 2019 to late 2020.

Although police have ruled out foul play, her passing, combined with Kim Yong Ho’s death, has intensified scrutiny on the entire controversy.

Kim Sae Ron’s mother has also taken centrestage in the scandal, issuing a seven-point demand list calling for public apologies from Kim Soo Hyun and his agency. She has accused YouTuber Lee Jin Ho of colluding with Kim Soo Hyun to manipulate media narratives about her daughter and announced legal action against him.

Meanwhile, Kim Soo Hyun has faced severe backlash, with major brands distancing themselves from him. Prada recently dropped him as a brand ambassador, and his Instagram following has plummeted by over 450,000. Public sentiment remains divided, with some questioning his past actions and others defending him against the allegations.