Kim Soo-hyun to Face Lawsuit from Advertisers Demanding Over $2.8 Million in Damages
Actor Kim Soo-hyun is reportedly facing another large-scale lawsuit from advertisers, adding to a growing list of legal complaints filed in recent weeks. On April 25, Company D submitted a claim at the Seoul Central District Court, seeking 2.8 billion KRW (approximately $2.8 million USD) in damages.
This follows earlier lawsuits filed by Companies A and B on March 29, totaling 3 billion KRW. Another company, identified as Company C, is reportedly preparing a similar claim. If all cases proceed, the total amount of compensation sought could reach 10 billion KRW (about $10 million USD).
Allegations of Reputational Damage
According to reports, Company D claims that recent controversies surrounding Kim Soo-hyun’s private life have negatively impacted their brand image, prompting them to terminate their advertising contract. The company asserts that both Kim Soo-hyun and his agency, Gold Medalist, should be held liable for the damage.
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency responded by stating that it is “still checking whether the complaint has been filed” and added that they will issue an official response after conducting a legal review.
From Drama Icon to Brand Favorite
Kim Soo-hyun built his reputation through a string of commercially and critically successful dramas, including Dream High (2011), Moon Embracing the Sun (2012), and My Love from the Star (2013), which propelled him to pan-Asian stardom. His later works, such as It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020) and the recent hit Queen of Tears (2024), further solidified his image as a trusted lead in both romantic and psychological genres.
His clean-cut public image and consistent box office appeal made him one of the most sought-after advertising models in South Korea, commanding endorsement deals across fashion, tech, F&B, and finance. Industry insiders estimate his appearance fees to be among the highest in the Korean entertainment market.
Background: Rumors and Countersuit
The wave of lawsuits stems from allegations tied to Kim Soo-hyun’s former relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Rumors circulated online accusing Kim of misconduct, including grooming and private information leaks. Kim Soo-hyun publicly denied the allegations at a March 31 press conference, clarifying that the relationship began when both parties were legal adults and refuting any claims of coercion or threats.
Following the press conference, Kim filed a countersuit against Kim Sae-ron’s family and operators of the YouTube channel “Garo Sero Research Institute,” seeking 12 billion KRW (about $12 million USD) in damages for defamation and violation of South Korea’s anti-stalking law.
Industry Fallout and Content Removal
Despite Kim Soo-hyun’s statements and legal actions, the advertising and entertainment industries reacted swiftly. Multiple brands removed his commercial content from their platforms. His appearance on the MBC variety show Good Day was fully edited out, and filming for the upcoming Disney+ series “Knock Off” has been suspended indefinitely, with no confirmed release schedule.
Previous article about Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Saeron > Kim Soohyun and Gold Medalist official statement on March 18th
Original Article by Kim Soo Hyun Agency, Gold Medalist > https://m.entertain.naver.com/now/article/109/0005296665
