As shocking details continue to emerge about Kim Sae Ron’s tragic passing, attention is now on Kim Soo Hyun, who was rumored to have been in a relationship with her.

On March 11, the YouTube channel GaSeYeon (Garo Sero Institute) released a photo of Kim Sae Ron and Kim Soo Hyun cheek-kissing along with text messages that her family reportedly provided.

Then, on March 12, media reports revealed a proof of content letter from Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, demanding repayment of ₩700 million KRW (~$520,000 USD) from the late actress.

Kim Sae Ron joined Gold Medalist in 2020 on Kim Soo Hyun’s recommendation when the agency was newly established. However, after her DUI scandal, her contract was not renewed in December 2023. Though reports say the agency covered her fines and damages, her family insists she paid for everything herself.

Later, when she faced financial struggles, Kim Sae Ron reached out to Kim Soo Hyun for help. However, she was met with silence.

According to her family, he changed his phone number, and her messages on KakaoTalk turned to "Unknown," cutting off all contact.

In one heartbreaking text message, Kim Sae Ron pleaded for help, saying:

"Oppa, it's me, Sae Ron. I got the proof of content letter. They said they'd wait before suing, so I’m trying to prepare for my comeback. I’ll repay little by little. It’s not that I won’t pay, but I just can’t do it all at once. Does it really have to go to court?"

Despite this, Gold Medalist allegedly pushed forward with legal threats.

According to Kim Sae Ron’s family, she transferred to Gold Medalist despite her parents’ opposition because she and Kim Soo Hyun "liked each other." However, his agency denies the dating rumors, saying, "The reports are groundless."

What’s even more shocking? Kim Sae Ron passed away on February 16, 2025—Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday.

Before her death, Kim Sae Ron was harassed by malicious commenters and YouTubers, adding to her struggles. After her passing, her family is now left to fight for her honor.

Her aunt, who has been a key representative of the family, spoke to The Fact in an emotional interview. She revealed:

Gold Medalist sent a legal notice for ₩700 million, despite claims that Kim Soo Hyun had personally loaned the money.

The rumored ₩20 billion loss from her DUI was exaggerated. The actual amount she owed was closer to ₩7 billion.

Kim Soo Hyun allegedly fought with his cousin over the repayment issue but ultimately cut ties with her.

When reporters tried to get a response from Gold Medalist, the agency only said, "We need internal discussions," delaying an official statement.

When asked directly, Kim Sae Ron’s family insisted that she and Kim Soo Hyun were in a relationship. Her aunt questioned,

"What kind of parent would lie about their deceased child? Sae Ron and Kim Soo Hyun were dating."

With unanswered questions and a family desperate for justice, the truth behind this tragic story is still unfolding.

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Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

Source: [1]