Actor Kim Soo-hyun, embroiled in controversies including allegations of dating a minor and various other issues, has been hit with additional lawsuits by advertisers.
According to a report by YTN star on the 2nd, a company that had a contract with Kim Soo-hyun and his agency, Gold Medalist, filed a lawsuit at the Seoul Central District Court on the 25th, seeking about 28 billion won in damages.
The company claims that due to the negative public opinion expanding from Kim Soo-hyun's personal life controversies, they could no longer maintain the contract and had to terminate it, holding Kim Soo-hyun and his agency responsible for damages.
This isn't the first time advertisers have taken legal action against Kim Soo-hyun. Last month, on the 29th, two companies that had advertising contracts with Kim Soo-hyun and Gold Medalist also filed lawsuits for the return of model fees and damages, amounting to a total of approximately 30 billion won.
Given this atmosphere, it is reported that other advertisers are considering additional lawsuits. Considering Kim Soo-hyun was the face of about 15 brands, there is speculation that the total amount of lawsuits could approach the hundred billion won mark. Gold Medalist has remained silent on the matter of being sued.
Kim Soo-hyun was engulfed in controversy last February over allegations of dating the late actress Kim Sae-ron during their minor years. Kim Soo-hyun held a press conference on March 31st to refute, stating, "My relationship with Kim Sae-ron began after we were both adults," but the initial accuser, Hover Lab, pressed further by releasing additional videos and photos.
Regardless of the truth behind the allegations, Kim Soo-hyun's image has undoubtedly taken a hit, leading companies that had him as a model to consider or proceed with contract terminations and damage claims.
Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun's side has announced plans to take legal action against the family of Kim Sae-ron and the YouTube channel Hover Lab, filing a lawsuit for damages amounting to 120 billion won. Additionally, they have proceeded with charges against the operator of Hover Lab for violation of the Stalking Punishment Law.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)