Family of Late Kim Sae-ron Files Defamation Lawsuit Against YouTuber

The family of the late actress Kim Sae-ron has initiated legal action against a YouTuber, referred to as A, for defamation. On March 17, 2025, the family’s legal representative, attorney Bu Ji-seok from the law firm Bu-yu, submitted a complaint to the Seoul Police Department, citing defamation through false statements.

During a press conference held earlier, attorney Bu stated, "According to Article 250, Section 1 of the Criminal Code, anyone who commits murder can face the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a minimum of five years in prison." He expressed a desire to pursue charges of murder but acknowledged that defamation does not fall under the legal definition of murder. He emphasized the need for the court to consider the connection between the YouTuber's false claims and the circumstances surrounding Kim's death when determining the severity of the punishment.

Bu explained that on March 24, 2024, Kim posted a photo with her former boyfriend, actor Kim Soo-hyun, after receiving a debt collection notice from his agency. In an attempt to reach out to Kim Soo-hyun, who she believed was not involved in the matter, she posted the photo, hoping it would prompt a response. However, the YouTuber A allegedly spread false information that denied their past relationship and portrayed Kim in a negative light, contributing to her severe mental distress and leading her to take drastic measures.

The family stated that they had no choice but to disclose the nature of Kim's relationship with Kim Soo-hyun to prove the YouTuber's falsehoods, which included sharing past photos of the couple. They also accused A of deleting previous videos after Kim's death, which they claim constitutes evidence tampering, and called for a search and seizure as well as an arrest.

Regarding Kim Soo-hyun's agency, the family initially hoped for an acknowledgment of the relationship to support their case against A. However, repeated false statements from the agency have only added to their distress, and they are now seeking a sincere apology.

Bu revealed that after the agency sent a first notice, Kim had texted Kim Soo-hyun pleading for help, but received no response. Instead, a second notice was sent, which, contrary to the agency's recent statements, essentially demanded that Kim repay her debts within a specified timeframe. The notice also included threats against her for posting the photo and instructed her not to contact Kim Soo-hyun or other actors from the agency.

The family expressed their deep concern over the emotional turmoil Kim must have experienced upon receiving such notices and questioned why the agency is only now seeking to communicate publicly. They are currently considering legal action against Kim Soo-hyun's side as well.