“Queen of Tears” actor Kim Soohyun has been at the center of controversy regarding his alleged past relationship with deceased actress Kim Saeron.

The controversy began when the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute (Gaseyeon) reported that Kim Soohyun had been in a romantic relationship with Kim Saeron since she was a minor. According to Gaseyeon, the relationship lasted for six years, and Kim Soohyun allegedly influenced Kim Saeron’s career decisions, including her move from YG Entertainment to Gold Medalist, the agency co-founded by Kim Soohyun and his cousin.

In response, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, issued a strong denial, calling the allegations “blatantly false.” They announced their intent to pursue the strongest legal actions possible against Gaseyeon for spreading misinformation. The agency further condemned the YouTube channel for engaging in “cyber wrecking,” stating that their claims not only damaged Kim Soohyun’s reputation but also defamed the late actress for personal gain.

However, critics believe that there must be a link between Kim Saeron’s death and Kim Soohyun, because Kim Saeron took her life on Feb. 16, Kim Soohyun’s birthday. Many fans of Kim Soo-hyun have been in shock. “ I could not believe the news when I first saw it,” Ellen Park (11), former fan of Kim Soohyun, said. “I loved his dramas, including ‘Queen of Tears,’ which I have rewatched 21 times. Soohyun had a really gentle and kind image, so I think many other people are in shock as well.”

The controversy has already had consequences for Kim Soohyun’s career. Some brands, including high-profile advertisers, have reportedly reconsidered their partnerships with the actor. The production team of his current variety show, Good Day, has announced they will edit his appearances in light of the ongoing scandal.

Adding to the complexity, a new video allegedly filmed at Kim Saeron’s residence surfaced, supposedly showing the two interacting. While Gaseyeon claims this supports the allegations, Kim Soohyun’s agency maintains that the footage is misleading.

“This news was so unexpected,” Ian Kim (11), entertainment enthusiast, said. “I have never expected Kim Saeron and Kim Soohyun to have this kind of interaction, especially because of their age gap. The pictures and videos of them shocked me a lot. There must be a lot of other hidden stories of celebrities that we don’t know.”