Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Sae-ron's Relationship Timeline Sparks Controversy

The relationship timeline of actors Kim Soo-hyun (김수현) and the late Kim Sae-ron (고 김새론) has become a contentious issue, with conflicting claims emerging. On March 14, 2025, the debate intensified over the dating period of the two stars, with Kim Soo-hyun's agency, Gold Medalist (골드메달리스트), asserting that they were in a relationship from the summer of 2019 until the fall of 2020. They refuted allegations from the YouTube channel 'Garo Sero Research Institute' (가로세로연구소) that suggested Kim Sae-ron was a minor during their relationship.
Gold Medalist acknowledged that they previously denied the dating rumors last year, stating that both actors found it difficult to accept the breakup that occurred four years prior to the initial dating rumors. In contrast, 'Garo Sero Research Institute' claimed during a live broadcast that Kim Sae-ron's diary entries indicated a relationship with Kim Soo-hyun from November 19, 2015, to July 7, 2021, when she was still a minor.
The agency also addressed a photo of the two that 'Garo Sero Research Institute' claimed was taken in the winter of 2020, arguing that this contradicted their assertion that the couple dated until the fall of 2020. Gold Medalist clarified that the photo was actually from early winter 2020, suggesting that 'Garo Sero Research Institute' was misleading the public.
The ongoing dispute has led to a complex narrative surrounding the couple's past relationship, with Gold Medalist's reversal on the dating denial and 'Garo Sero Research Institute's selective presentation of information fueling the controversy. The situation remains unresolved, with 'Garo Sero Research Institute' continuing to raise further allegations during their broadcasts, claiming they have more photos and videos to share. Meanwhile, Gold Medalist has expressed concern for Kim Soo-hyun's mental state, indicating he is experiencing severe anxiety. The agency's upcoming statement next week is highly anticipated for more clarity on the matter.
Recently, 'Garo Sero Research Institute' accused Kim Soo-hyun of 'grooming' Kim Sae-ron during her minor years, following her passing on February 16, 2025. They also claimed that Gold Medalist sent a notice of damages amounting to 700 million KRW to Kim Sae-ron, which they allege put pressure on Kim Soo-hyun, who they claim remained passive in the situation. Gold Medalist has firmly denied these allegations, labeling them as defamatory and has announced plans for legal action.