- Kim Soo-hyun lost a Galleria Foret apartment after failing to pay a ₩3B penalty to skincare brand Classys.
- The penalty stems from brand damage following false rumors linking him to Kim Sae-ron.
- His legal team calls the property seizure unjustified and is counter-suing YouTuber Kim Se-eui.
Actor Kim Soo-hyun has suffered a major financial setback after one of his luxury apartments was seized by skincare brand Classys. The brand claims the actor breached their endorsement agreement due to a scandal sparked by unverified rumors linking him to the late actress Kim Sae-ron.
In response, Soo-hyun’s legal team launched a counterattack, filing for provisional seizure of properties owned by YouTuber Kim Se-eui of GaroSero.
Kim Soo-hyun’s Reputation War Turns Legal as Brands and YouTubers Clash
Kim Soo-hyun’s once-private property investment in Seoul’s elite Galleria Foret complex has now become public fodder in a growing legal storm. After failing to pay a breach penalty to Classys, the court approved the seizure of one of his apartments—a move that his legal team claims is unfair and reactive to baseless allegations.
The controversy stems from damaging online rumors, originally circulated by the controversial GaroSero Institute, which suggested an inappropriate relationship between Soo-hyun and late actress Kim Sae-ron. Although unproven, the gossip led to significant reputational damage, prompting several brand terminations and halted drama projects.
Classys terminated their contract and demanded damages, while two more brands are reportedly considering similar action. These escalating lawsuits illustrate how easily the entertainment industry’s relationship with public figures can sour in the face of reputational crises.
Soo-hyun’s legal representatives responded with aggressive legal action of their own, freezing assets of GaroSero’s Kim Se-eui and targeting the institute’s bank account. They emphasized the actor’s proactive role in pursuing accountability rather than retreating quietly, asserting that he’s determined to restore his reputation.
Kim Soo-hyun’s case highlights the fragile balance between public image and personal rights, as one rumor snowballs into a legal and financial reckoning for everyone involved.
“A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.” — Mark Twain
