South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun, celebrated for his captivating performances in dramas such as Queen of Tears and My Love from Another Star, finds himself embroiled in a scandal that has sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the entertainment industry.
The controversy ignited on February 16, 2025—coincidentally Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday—following the untimely death of actress Kim Sae-ron. Allegations emerged, suggesting that Kim Soo-hyun had a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor. These claims, bolstered by purported evidence including photos and text messages, were first publicized by the YouTube channel Garo Sero Research Institute.
In response, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, issued a statement denying the accusations, asserting that any relationship between the two occurred only after Kim Sae-ron reached adulthood. Despite this defense, the allegations have triggered a firestorm of reactions, with major brands such as Prada, Homeplus, and New Han Bank swiftly terminating their endorsement contracts with the actor.
On X (formerly Twitter), the platform has become a battleground for fans processing the scandal, revealing a deeply divided community. While a portion of Kim Soo-hyun’s supporters staunchly defend him, pointing to his illustrious career and the absence of definitive proof, a larger wave of criticism has emerged, with detractors voicing outrage and demanding accountability. The mixed sentiments are reflected in the trending hashtags—#SupportKimSooHyun and #WeStandwithKimSooHyun juxtaposed against posts laden with condemnation. Engagement metrics underscore this polarization, as both supportive and critical tweets amass significant views and likes, painting a vivid picture of a fanbase at odds.
Amid the swirling controversy, a dedicated segment of Kim Soo-hyun’s fanbase has rallied to his defense, emphasizing his character and questioning the validity of the allegations. These supporters have taken to X to express their unwavering loyalty, often framing the scandal as an unjust attack on a beloved figure. For instance, user @soohyunupdates posted a heartfelt message that resonated widely: “Support Kim Soo-hyun with all your heart, no matter what happens. He is a kind and gentle person who always cares about his fans. #KimSoohyun #SupportKimSooHyun” This tweet exploded in popularity, accumulating over 4 million views and nearly 1,800 likes, signaling a robust show of support from fans unwilling to abandon their idol. Similarly, @Londvoting echoed this sentiment, urging followers to stand firm: “We stand with Kim Soo-hyun against these false accusations. He has always been a role model and deserves our support. #WeStandwithKimSooHyun” With over 57,000 views and 407 likes, this post further illustrates the resolve of Kim Soo-hyun’s defenders, who argue that his long-standing reputation as a compassionate and professional actor should outweigh unverified claims.
Conversely, a significant portion of the fanbase has turned against Kim Soo-hyun, expressing profound disappointment and moral outrage over the allegations. These critics have not minced words, with some leveling severe accusations and calling for his cancellation. User @xxxtaerixxx captured this sentiment in a scathing tweet: “It’s disgusting how some fans are still supporting Kim Soo-hyun. He’s a pedo, and there’s no excuse for that.” This post struck a chord, garnering over 125,000 views and nearly 5,000 likes, a testament to the intensity of the backlash. The use of charged terms like “pedo” reflects the visceral anger among detractors who feel betrayed by the actor they once admired. Another user, @xofyles, added fuel to the fire: “The fact that some people are defending Kim Soo-hyun is beyond me. This is not just a scandal; it’s a moral failing. #CancelKimSooHyun” With over 9,000 views and 401 likes, this tweet underscores the growing chorus of fans who view the allegations as a breach of ethical boundaries, irrespective of legal confirmation. The hashtag #CancelKimSooHyun has gained traction, amplifying the call for repercussions.
The scandal’s impact extends beyond fan discourse, reverberating through Kim Soo-hyun’s professional sphere. Major brands that once leveraged his star power have distanced themselves, with Prada, Homeplus, and New Han Bank publicly ending their partnerships. This swift corporate response highlights the perceived gravity of the allegations and the potential damage to their public image. Beyond contract terminations, fans have escalated their criticism into action, threatening to boycott more than 18 brands linked to Kim Soo-hyun. According to a report by Hindustan Times, these boycott calls are gaining momentum, with fans demanding accountability not only from the actor but also from the companies that have endorsed him. This consumer backlash underscores the scandal’s broader implications, as the entertainment industry grapples with the fallout of a tarnished celebrity image.
As of March 26, 2025, the Kim Soo-hyun scandal remains a contentious and evolving story, with no resolution in sight. On X, the fanbase continues to fracture along lines of loyalty and disillusionment. Supporters cling to his past achievements—a career marked by critically acclaimed performances and a reputation for humility—arguing that the lack of concrete evidence should preclude judgment. They see the allegations as a smear campaign, bolstered by sensationalism rather than fact. Critics, however, frame the situation as a moral litmus test, asserting that the severity of the claims, even if unproven, warrants condemnation. Terms like “groomer” and “pedophile” have entered the lexicon of this debate, reflecting the emotional stakes for those who feel their trust has been shattered.
The contrasting reactions on X mirror broader societal tensions about celebrity accountability, the burden of proof, and the role of public perception in shaping a star’s fate. Engagement metrics—millions of views for supportive posts, tens of thousands for critical ones—demonstrate that neither side is relenting. Hashtags continue to trend, serving as rallying cries for their respective camps. Meanwhile, the industry’s response, from brand terminations to fan-led boycotts, suggests that the repercussions may outlast the immediate controversy, potentially reshaping Kim Soo-hyun’s career trajectory.
