- Lee El speaks out against unfair treatment of young actors, indirectly supporting Kim Sae-ron.
- Kim Soo-hyun faces backlash and loses major brand endorsements, including Prada.
- His agency confirms they dated but insists their relationship began after she was an adult.
Actress Lee El has become the first K-drama celebrity to address the controversy surrounding Kim Soo-hyun and the late Kim Sae-ron. In a cryptic post, she questioned the industry’s double standards, highlighting how minors are often mistreated while young adults are unfairly scrutinized.
Kim Soo-hyun, once one of South Korea’s most bankable stars, is facing public and professional fallout following allegations from Kim Sae-ron’s family.
Kim Soo-hyun’s Scandal Shakes K-Drama Industry as Lee El Speaks Out
Lee El’s social media post has sparked widespread debate, with many praising her for addressing the mistreatment of young actors. Her remarks point to a broader issue within the entertainment industry, where child stars often lack protection and are later vilified when they grow up. While she did not mention names, her statement has been linked directly to Kim Sae-ron’s situation.
Kim Soo-hyun’s career is now under scrutiny, with multiple brands withdrawing endorsements in response to the allegations. His reputation, built over years of hit dramas, is at risk, as the controversy has led to public outrage. Some fans continue to support him, while others believe the allegations warrant further investigation.
Kim Sae-ron’s passing in February 2025 brought renewed attention to her personal struggles, including financial troubles and mental health challenges. Her family’s allegations against Kim Soo-hyun have intensified discussions about power dynamics in the entertainment industry. Critics argue that the system enables power imbalances that can negatively impact young actors.
Despite his agency’s clarification that the relationship began when she was an adult, public opinion remains divided. The scandal has reignited concerns about industry practices, age gaps in relationships, and the responsibility of agencies in protecting young stars.
Lee El’s remarks have added another layer to the ongoing debate, emphasizing the need for better treatment of young actors. Whether Kim Soo-hyun can recover from this backlash remains uncertain, but the scandal has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the industry.
“A nine-year-old is pushed around by their parents because they don’t know anything, and a 15-year-old is treated like a gold digger because they know everything about the world.” – Lee El
