Kim Soo-hyun's agency files criminal case against Kim Sae-ron’s family, YouTuber as Disney stalls his show Knock-Off

On March 20, 2025, actor Kim Soo-hyun's agency, Gold Medallist, announced the filing of criminal lawsuits against the operator of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute and members of the late actress Kim Sae-ron's family. The agency stated that the lawsuits pertain to the unauthorized distribution of a private photo depicting Kim Soo-hyun, which was allegedly provided by a person claiming to be Kim Sae-ron's aunt. The agency emphasized that sharing such images without consent is a violation of laws concerning the distribution of footage filmed using cameras and constitutes sexual harassment.

“Posting the photograph on a YouTube channel constitutes a clear criminal act, and Hoverlab has stated that they will continue to release similar photos," the statement read. "Given these circumstances, Gold Medalist has no choice but to take legal action."

The agency also mentioned that it had refrained from legal action against the bereaved family of the late actor out of respect. However, it stated that "false information spread by Hoverlab through broadcasts and other means, along with the unverified rumors," had escalated and "continue to spread in real time online."

The legal matter arises amid allegations made by the YouTube channel Hoverlab, which has claimed that Kim Soo-hyun was in a six-year relationship with Kim Sae-ron while she was a minor. The channel also alleged that Kim Soo-hyun did not offer assistance when Kim Sae-ron faced financial difficulties and struggled to repay a 700 million won ($530,000) debt to his agency. Gold Medalist has firmly denied these claims, describing them as "false and defamatory."

"If false allegations and defamation continue, we will be forced to take comprehensive legal action to protect the reputation of the agency and the actor," Gold Medalist stated.

Kim Sae-ron’s family, through their attorney Bu Ji-seok of Law Firm Buyou, filed a lawsuit on March 17 against YouTuber Lee Jin-ho and announced their intention to pursue additional legal action against Kim Soo-hyun, as well as reporters from SBS and Dispatch, alleging that their actions collectively contributed to Kim Sae-ron’s passing.

Meanwhile, his Disney show Knock-Off has postponed the release of its show, Knock off. The statement read, "After careful consideration, we have paused plans to release Knock-Off."

Additionally, Kim Soo-hyun's scheduled participation in the Kaohsiung Cherry Blossom Festival in Taiwan is under review due to the controversy. If the organizers decide to cancel his appearance, he could face a penalty of approximately 1.32 billion KRW (USD 911,000).

Furthermore, actor Jung Hae-in has been indirectly affected by the situation, as fans have left comments on his social media expressing concerns about similar controversies. Both Jung Hae-in and Kim Soo-hyun were recently seen together on G-Dragon's show "Good Day" alongside Yim Si-wan.