Kim Sae Ron controversy raises political questions ahead of South Korea’s Presidential Election

Kim Sae Ron controversy raises political questions ahead of South Korea’s Presidential Election

South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has recently found a glimmer of relief amid a storm of public scrutiny following a controversy involving the late actress, Kim Sae Ron. Earlier this year, the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute ignited public outrage by releasing photos and videos that allegedly showed Kim Soo-hyun dating Kim Sae Ron when she was still a minor. The accusations sparked widespread cyberbullying and backlash against the beloved actor.

However, the tide appears to be turning. Recent revelations have cast significant doubt on the allegations. For one, the viral audio clip that implicated Kim Soo-hyun in a financial scam has now been confirmed to be AI-generated, discrediting one of the key pieces of so-called “evidence.”

In addition, new information emerged about Kim Sae Ron's financial struggles before her death, including a debt of 1.2 billion Korean won. Reports also suggest that her family had accepted financial support from friends in the entertainment industry, raising concerns about possible exploitation and manipulation.

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Public suspicion is now beginning to turn toward Garosero itself. The YouTube channel, which has gained notoriety for mixing political commentary with celebrity exposés, is reportedly affiliated with former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached in December 2024. In a controversial move, Yoon wore a headband supporting Kim Sae Ron during a press conference, leading many to believe that the scandal may have been politically motivated.

This theory gains traction as South Korea gears up for a pivotal presidential election on June 3, 2025—the same day Garosero has promised to release further revelations. The main contenders are Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party of Korea and Kim Moon-so of the People Power Party (PPP), who served as Labor Minister under Yoon. Lee, currently the frontrunner, has vocally condemned cyberbullying and pledged to take action against malicious online actors if elected.

Lee’s stance has brought hope to Kim Soo-hyun’s supporters. He has vowed to ensure justice for those wrongfully targeted, emphasizing that the internet should not be a breeding ground for baseless attacks. Still, questions linger. Was the controversy orchestrated for political gain? Will the truth come out after the election? As the nation waits for answers, Kim Soo-hyun can only hope that justice will ultimately prevail.