The Ongoing Controversy Surrounding Kim Sae-ron's Death

It has been 56 days since the tragic passing of Kim Sae-ron (김새론), yet discussions surrounding her personal life continue to escalate, raising concerns about the invasion of privacy. Kim was found dead at her home in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, on February 16. Following her death, her family claimed that she had been in a relationship with actor Kim Soo-hyun (김수현) since 2015, when she was a minor, and shared private messages, photos, and letters through the YouTube channel 'Garo Sero Research Institute'. They alleged that the pressure from Kim Soo-hyun's agency to repay a debt of 700 million won contributed to her struggles and ultimately her death. Additionally, they stated that a video created by YouTuber A had caused her significant emotional distress, which they believe also played a role in her passing.

In response, Kim Soo-hyun tearfully denied these claims during a press conference on March 31, asserting that he did not date Kim while she was a minor and that their relationship lasted only about a year after she turned 18. He emphasized that the notion that his agency's pressure led to her tragic decision was unfounded.

Since Kim's death, her private life has been scrutinized in minute detail, largely due to the actions of YouTuber A, who has faced defamation charges from Kim's family. A has claimed that Kim married a man in New York and has even suggested inheritance issues, further delving into her personal affairs.

A presented evidence from Kim's social media, including a post from January 8 that read 'Marry', along with alleged conversations between a woman presumed to be Kim and a representative from her agency. Although Kim's side clarified that the photos were simply snapshots with friends, the leaked recordings suggested otherwise, with the woman claiming, 'It’s true that I got married. It was overseas.'

Moreover, a media outlet published an exclusive interview with Kim's ex-boyfriend, who claimed that her death was not due to Kim Soo-hyun but rather linked to a man referred to as D, whom she married earlier this year. He even provided a fact verification document to support his claims.

In the interview, Kim reportedly expressed feelings of loneliness and fear during her relationship with D, stating, 'At first, there was no expression, and I was always having a hard time. I needed someone who would listen to me and help me. But it was short-lived. After that, I was scared because of the threats and harassment I received.'

The family has continued to release private messages, letters, and photos, intensifying the public's interest in Kim's relationships, including a claim by YouTuber A that she dated singer E from early 2021 until May 2022. A alleged that Kim sent a coffee truck anonymously to E's music video set and did not hide their relationship on social media. Following their breakup, Kim reportedly struggled, leading to a drunk driving incident on May 18, 2022.

Netizens speculated that E might be the singer WOODZ (우즈), but his agency, EDAM Entertainment, declined to confirm any details, citing privacy concerns. WOODZ is currently serving in the military and is expected to be discharged in July.

As the investigation continues, the public remains captivated by the unfolding drama surrounding Kim Sae-ron's life and death. With Kim Soo-hyun pursuing legal action against the family, it seems that this legal battle will prolong the scrutiny of Kim's private life, leaving many to wonder how much more will be revealed.