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Actor Kim Soo Hyun is currently under intense legal and financial scrutiny following the court-ordered seizure of one of his luxury properties. The move is directly tied to the ongoing scandal surrounding his alleged past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron, which has significantly impacted his professional image and brand associations.
On June 12, reports from Korean media revealed that skincare and beauty brand Classys had legally seized one of Kim Soo Hyun’s apartments in the prestigious Galleria Forêt complex, located in Seoul’s Seongdong District. This action was a result of the actor’s failure to pay 3 billion KRW (approximately 2.19 million USD) in penalties demanded by the company. The lawsuit stems from a terminated endorsement contract with Classys, who argued that the scandal damaged their brand. Legal documents confirm that Classys initiated the property seizure request on May 8, which was approved by the Seoul Eastern District Court on May 20.
The seized apartment is just one of three luxury units the actor owns in Galleria Forêt, a high-end residential complex favored by many top-tier Korean celebrities. Its association with elite status has only intensified the public’s reaction to the legal developments.
In response to the seizure, Kim Soo Hyun’s legal team released a strong public statement, denouncing the move as unjustified. They asserted that the entire controversy stems from what they called “false and malicious” accusations propagated by the controversial YouTube channel Garosero Institute and its host, Kim Se Ui. The lawyers argued that Kim has become a scapegoat, suffering reputational damage due to baseless claims that have since spiraled into financial and legal chaos.
The legal team acknowledged that Kim’s scandal has caused complications for some commercial partners. However, they insisted that the actor himself should not be held liable for losses incurred by external business entities, instead placing full blame on Garosero Institute and Kim Se Ui for defamation.
The controversy initially gained traction after Garosero Institute alleged that Kim Soo Hyun had dated Kim Sae Ron while she was still a minor. The situation became more volatile when some members of Kim Sae Ron’s family seemingly supported parts of this narrative, further claiming that the actor had pressured her to repay a large loan. These accusations caused a wave of negative media coverage, brand withdrawals, and legal complications.
Kim Soo Hyun, however, has firmly denied all claims of dating a minor. Through official statements, he clarified that while he did have a relationship with Kim Sae Ron, it began only after she legally became an adult. His team has also completely refuted any suggestion that he demanded loan repayments from her or exerted undue pressure.
As investigations and legal battles continue to unfold, the outcome could have long-lasting effects on Kim Soo Hyun’s career and reputation. Both fans and industry watchers remain on edge, waiting for further developments in what has become one of the most high-profile entertainment scandals in recent memory.