Kim Soo-hyun wins court battles, but his career remains on pause: Where is South Korea’s top star now?

Actor Kim Soo-hyun may not have appeared in a new drama this year, but he has remained firmly in the spotlight, though not for the reasons fans might expect. From a delayed Disney+ series to defamation lawsuits and a major brand fallout, 2025 has so far been a turbulent period for the actor often dubbed one of Korea’s top Hallyu stars.

Kim Soo-hyun was slated to headline Knock-Off, a much-anticipated original series from Disney+. However, production was paused earlier this year amid mounting public scrutiny following rumors involving the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Disney+ has since delayed the premiere indefinitely, citing internal review and external circumstances. Industry insiders have suggested that the series may be shelved altogether or require reshoots, though nothing has been officially confirmed.

The pause in Soo-hyun’s acting schedule coincided with a swirl of online speculation linking him to Kim Sae-ron, which originated from YouTube videos posted by HoverLab’s CEO. In a tearful press conference,tThe actor swiftly denied claims of any inappropriate relationship with the actress when she was a minor, clarifying that the two briefly dated as consenting adults. He also addressed manipulated audio clips that circulated online, which his legal team described as deepfakes.

In response, Soo-hyun filed defamation, stalking, and false information charges against the YouTuber. The Seoul court recently ruled in his favour, issuing a provisional order to seize the YouTuber’s assets and awarding Kim damages. While the decision marked a legal victory for the actor, public opinion remains divided.

As the controversy unfolded, several major brands, including Shinhan Bank, Tous Les Jours, and Prada Korea, quietly removed his image from campaigns. While none have publicly severed ties, reports indicate that multiple contracts have been suspended, with financial penalties possibly reaching into the billions of won.

Though he has largely kept a low public profile, Kim Soo-hyun remains one of South Korea’s most recognisable actors, with global popularity that has endured through past controversies. Despite this year’s accusations, his fans continue to show support across social platforms, and there has been no announcement regarding a permanent break from acting.

For now, it appears that Soo-hyun is focused on restoring his public image through legal channels. Whether or not Knock-Off will mark his return to the screen remains to be seen.