After months of silence, there’s now an update to the turbulent Kim Soohyun (김수현) and Kim Saeron (김새론) saga. However, this news has understandably sparked outrage among netizens.
Earlier this week, news outlets reported that the Seoul Gangnam Police Station had applied for an arrest warrant for YouTuber Kim Se Ui (김세의) of Garosero Institute (가로세로연구소) for defamation. The police alleged that the YouTuber, along with Kim Saeron’s family, had spread false information about Kim Soohyun with the intent to slander him.
Along with this arrest warrant application, the police also issued their conclusion on the investigation into Kim Soohyun. To recap, Kim Saeron’s family previously accused the actor of having an intimate relationship with the late actress when she was a minor. The family also shared private photos of the pair, allegedly taken when Kim Saeron was underage.
However, the authorities have recently concluded that Kim Soohyun didn’t date Kim Saeron when she was a minor, claiming that the alleged evidence, including past text messages, had been fabricated. The police also believe that Kim Se Ui and Kim Saeron’s family used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to manipulate voice files of the late star to accuse the actor.
Unsurprisingly, this conclusion sparked negative reactions, with netizens pointing out evidence of Kim Soohyun’s guilt. Some argued that various photos show the pair were at least acquainted when Kim Saeron was a minor, suggesting that Kim Soohyun had groomed the actress since she was a teenager.
The conclusion also prompted a discussion about the many times Kim Soohyun has expressed inappropriate interest towards younger stars. Among the examples listed were the actor saying he would like to play Kim Yoojung’s (김유정) on-screen partner when she was only 13 and telling gymnast Son Yeonjae (손연재) he’s interested in dating her when she was 16 years old.
Despite the police’s conclusion, many said they believe Kim Soohyun is guilty and will continue to boycott his works. What are your thoughts on this?
Sources: Naver, Twitter (1)(2)
