Renowned South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun has come under intense scrutiny following allegations that he was in a romantic relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron while she was still a minor. The controversy erupted after YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute claimed that the two had been dating for several years.
Sae-ron was reportedly in a relationship with Kim Soo Hyun when she was minor
Sae-ron, who tragically took her own life on February 16, reportedly shared a deep connection with Soo Hyun, as revealed by the YouTube channel. The speculation gained traction when Sae-ron’s aunt provided a handwritten love letter, which she claims was penned by Soo Hyun for Sae-ron when she was just 17 years old and he was 30. The letter, dated June 9, 2018—during his military service—describes his affection for her and reminisces about their time together.
Kim Soo Hyun's letter to minor Kim Sae-ron
In the letter, Soo Hyun reportedly referred to Sae-ron as "Saero-Nero" and expressed his longing for her. A translated excerpt published by Koreaboo reads, “Today, the weather was so unpredictable that I felt like I was being tossed around in all directions this wonderful Saturday. What a great day for writing something and thinking about you, Saero-Nero.” He further wrote about his desire to share beautiful and meaningful things with her, adding, “I want to share what I find beautiful and meaningful… even if it’s hard to see your face, I still want to tell you how I feel.”
Continuing in the letter, he seemingly struggled to articulate his emotions but ultimately conveyed, “What I’m trying to say is… I just want to share what I think is good, what I find as joy, what I’m looking at or feeling… I want to share these things with you. It’s hard to see your face, but I still want to share with you how I feel inside. What I’m willing. I don’t want to burden you… So, I guess what I can say is… I miss you.” The letter concluded with a request: “Please take good care of me.”
Reports claim Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae-ron dated for six years
According to Garosero Research Institute, Soo Hyun and Sae-ron were in a relationship for six years. Their relationship had long been speculated but never confirmed. Following the explosive claims, the actor has been facing significant backlash, with discussions circulating about potential loss of work opportunities and brand endorsements.
Adding to the controversy, old photographs from Soo Hyun’s military service have resurfaced, including one where he is seen kissing Sae-ron. Furthermore, a postcard dated January 1, 2019, reportedly contained the message, “I love you, Sae Ron.”
Sae-ron's death
Sae-ron was discovered dead at her residence at the age of 24, with authorities confirming her passing as a suicide. Her funeral was held on February 19. In 2022, she was embroiled in a DUI scandal after crashing into multiple objects on the road. Despite issuing a public apology, she faced severe public criticism at the time.