The media, fans across Asia and many other places are closely following the incident.
Kim Soo Hyun's recent press conference aims to clarify the allegations related to the late actor Kim Sae Ron, only adding to the controversy both domestically and internationally.
Kim Sae Ron's family asked Kim Soo Hyun to publicly apologize and admitted that he dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor (from 2015 to 2021).
At the 40-minute press conference on March 31, Kim Soo Hyun largely reiterated the company's previous statements.
The actor admitted that he was a shy person because he denied dating, when Kim Sae Ron posted an intimate photo in March 2024. However, he once again confirmed that the two had only been dating for about a year, when Kim Sae Ron was old enough to mature.
Kim Soo Hyun said "as a star, I have a lot to lose". However, this excuse did not change public opinion. Many people believe that Kim Soo Hyun had a conflict because he asked the condolence family to submit evidence to the police, while his team authorized a separate forensic analysis unit.
At the end of the press conference, Kim Soo Hyun's legal team announced a criminal lawsuit for defamation against Kim Sae Ron's family and a YouTube channel operator, demanding compensation of up to 12 billion won.
International media reported quickly and uncompromisingly. Variety wrote: "A-list actor Kim Soo Hyun appeared emotionally at the press conference," describing the scandal as a serious blow to his career. The article was ranked as one of the most viewed articles of the day, reflecting the widespread interest of international audiences.
Reuters and TMZ also reported the incident.
In Japan, online comments criticized Kim Soo Hyun's statements as unsincere, or his voice disrespectful to the deceased.
A reporter in Thailand also agreed with these opinions. The reporter told Hankook Ilbo: "It's hard to believe Kim Soo Hyun. He has been lying to me too many times. Public opinion got worse after the press conference.
Thailand has a much stricter stance on the relationship between adults and adolescents than Korea. News about Kim Soo Hyun appeared everywhere here. He has been very famous in Thailand since Why did you come here, so all major news channels have reported on this controversy.
Many countries have responded more sensitively to South Korea's allegations of lure and other crimes involving minors. This could put Kim Soo Hyun's overseas activities in front of serious challenges.
However, not all fans turned their backs. In front of the press conference venue, a truck sent by fans from Brazil displayed messages in support of Kim Soo Hyun.
An LED sign reads: Dont spread false information anymore. Kim Soo Hyun has dedicated his entire life to art and fans. We support him.
