Kim Soo Hyun’s return under review as legal team prioritizes recovery and reputation restoration

Actor Kim Soo Hyun’s future return to the entertainment industry is currently being discussed with caution, according to his legal representative, who emphasized that the actor’s recovery and return to normal daily life remain the foremost priorities.

Speaking on YTN Radio’s 'Wise Radio Life' on June 1, attorney Kho Sang Rock addressed questions regarding Kim Soo Hyun’s potential comeback following months of controversy and legal disputes. “Specific discussions regarding his return are difficult to comment on at this stage,” Kho said. “However, as his legal counsel, I will continue to provide support so that he can eventually return to the public through his work.”

The attorney described Kim as gradually rebuilding his reputation after enduring what he characterized as severe reputational damage caused by cyber-related attacks and public allegations.“He was placed in a situation where his reputation and personal dignity were nearly destroyed,” Kho stated. “At present, the actor’s primary focus is restoring his daily life and returning to a sense of normalcy.”

Kho also addressed ongoing public attention surrounding reported legal claims worth approximately 30 billion KRW (about 23 million USD), suggesting that the focus should remain on establishing the facts rather than financial figures.

“Rather than becoming preoccupied with a particular number, it is more important that the truth be revealed and that society creates an environment in which the actor can return to his rightful place,” he said.

The attorney further commented on recent developments involving Kim Se Eui, head of the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute, following the disclosure of an arrest warrant application filed against him.

“It is highly unusual for an arrest warrant application to exceed 30 pages,” Kho noted. “This suggests that investigative authorities possess a considerable degree of confidence in proving the allegations against Kim and other individuals involved.”

The controversy dates back to March 2024, when the late actress Kim Sae Ron briefly uploaded and later deleted a photograph featuring herself and Kim Soo Hyun on social media, sparking dating rumors. Kim Soo Hyun’s agency denied the speculation at the time.

The issue resurfaced after Kim Sae Ron was found deceased at her residence in February 2025. Subsequently, Kim Se Eui and members of the actress’s bereaved family publicly alleged that Kim Soo Hyun had been involved in a relationship with Kim Sae Ron during her minor years. Various photographs, recordings, and other materials were released in support of the claims, alongside allegations that financial pressure related to debt repayment had contributed to her death.

Kim Soo Hyun’s representatives have consistently denied the accusations. During a press conference held in March 2025, the actor’s legal team stated that he had never been involved in a relationship with Kim Sae Ron while she was a minor and argued that several materials presented by the opposing side had been manipulated or fabricated. Legal proceedings related to the matter remain ongoing.

As investigations continue, Kim Soo Hyun’s representatives maintain that restoring the actor’s reputation and supporting his personal recovery remain their immediate priorities before any formal return to entertainment activities is considered.