Kim Sae-Ron death case: Former manager cleared of embezzlement allegations

Kwon questioned how such data, usually restricted to immediate family members, could have surfaced, hinting at Mr. K’s involvement.

He further pointed to what he described as irregularities in hospital billing. Kwon alleged that a wrist surgery billed at 5.4 million KRW in November of the previous year was later cancelled and re-issued at 4.98 million KRW, which he claimed raised suspicions of possible embezzlement.

Mr. K, however, strongly refuted the allegations. “The surgery cost nearly 5 million KRW because Kim Sae Ron did not have insurance. She herself mentioned the hospital bill was around 5 million KRW. Apart from paying urgently at the hospital, there was nothing questionable,” he said.

A former colleague from Kim Sae Ron’s agency also came to Mr. K’s defence, noting that although he had resigned from his post in December last year, he had always shown genuine care for the actress.

“He even ensured she ate properly, and there were no issues with the hospital payment,” the staff member added, rejecting suggestions that he had encouraged her to drink or mishandled funds.

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The hospital involved also released a statement via SBS Entertainment News, clarifying, “We reviewed the broadcast made by Kwon Young Chan. The claims about medical records and re-billing are groundless. Although the accusations are yet to be formally confirmed, we will take appropriate measures if needed.”

In response, Mr. K filed a defamation and insult lawsuit against Kwon on 19 June, under the Information and Communications Network Act.

That case remains under investigation. Kwon has since explained, “My claims were presented in the form of questions directed at Mr. K, the late Kim Sae Ron’s manager, during the broadcast.”