On April 15, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, announced it had filed a criminal complaint against individuals and platforms spreading false rumors, defamation, and malicious content about the actor.
The targets range from anonymous commenters to YouTube creators and short-form video makers. The agency described this online behavior as “severe character assassination” and stated they would take action not only under Korean law but also on global platforms like YouTube and X (formerly Twitter) through overseas legal representatives.
This aggressive legal push comes amid continued speculation regarding Kim’s alleged past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, and escalating grooming-related accusations. Despite the lack of formal charges, public backlash has intensified.
Now, as legal proceedings begin, the public is divided: Is this justice, or a PR-driven cover-up?
Korean Response: “Too Late to Play the Victim”
On Korean forums and news platforms, the response was largely critical. While some support Kim’s right to protect his name, many question the lawsuit’s intent and timing—seeing it as damage control rather than accountability.
Top Korean Comments (Source : Nate)
“He’s not clean himself, so now he takes it out on others.” (👍 1,583 / 👎 304)
“Please sue them AND bankrupt them.” (👍 1,035 / 👎 244)
“If you’re going to sue, go after the YouTubers, Sae-ron’s family, and reporters too. Don’t cherry-pick.” (👍 758 / 👎 127)
“What’s the point of suing? Convince people instead. This feels excessive.” (👍 156 / 👎 66)
“We’re watching cyberbullies defame him live. They should all be punished without mercy.” (👍 146 / 👎 125)
“Still no reflection, huh? Lied to the whole country and now takes it out on netizens?” (👍 130 / 👎 32)
“You can’t even call him an ‘artist’ anymore…” (👍 102 / 👎 30)
“You cried and said you lied because you were a ‘star’—and now you’re suing netizens? This is pathetic.” (👍 89 / 👎 28)
Many users highlighted a growing disconnect between public sentiment and celebrity legal responses, pointing out that lawsuits can’t rebuild broken trust.
Global Response: “Silencing Isn’t Innocence”
Outside Korea, international fans and observers were even more skeptical. While some emphasized that no one deserves hate, most criticized the lawsuit as a tactic to suppress criticism rather than address concerns openly.
Top Global Comments(Source : X @kchartsmaster)
“But how is it malicious if all the comments about him being a PDF file are true 💀 girl bye” (❤️ 479)
“This isn’t just about reputation; it’s about responsibility. Own up to it 🙄 Fans aren’t haters for asking questions.” (❤️ 101)
“How are they malicious if they’re all true🙂” (❤️ 99)
“He has already ruined his own reputation. So the first person he should sue is himself.” (❤️ 50)
“Let this be a message to trolls everywhere: you’re not invisible, and you’re not above the law.” (❤️ 32)
“He’s trying everything to silence the truth but we’ll never forget he was one of the biggest factors in causing a young girl’s death.” (❤️ 20)
“Just admit it bro.” (❤️ 18)
“Respect, no one should tolerate hate online or offline..” (❤️ 17)
These comments reveal a strong demand for transparency and truth, rather than lawsuits perceived as intimidation.
Cultural Divide: Reputation Management vs. Accountability
In Korea, where public image is paramount, lawsuits are often a first line of defense. They symbolize authority and set legal boundaries in a digital world where lines are easily crossed.
Globally, however, this approach often fuels suspicion. Western audiences value openness and public discourse, especially when serious allegations arise. In this context, legal action can seem like silencing rather than resolution.
Kim Soo-hyun’s lawsuit may succeed in the courts,
but whether it restores public trust—at home or abroad—remains to be seen.