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Kim Soo Hyun Faced with “Severe Psychological Distress” Amid Ongoing Legal Turmoil and Controversies
SEOUL – One year after the tragic passing of actress Kim Sae Ron, Hallyu megastar Kim Soo Hyun remains at the center of a relentless storm. Recent updates from industry insiders and legal representatives paint a somber picture of the actor’s current state, as he grapples with deteriorating mental health and a mounting pile of high-stakes lawsuits.
A Year of “Psychological Instability”
Reports from late 2025 and early 2026 indicate that the actor has fallen into a state of “distraught,” “severe psychological instability,” and “extreme stress.” There are claims that he requires constant supervision and frequently goes mountain climbing to regain his composure.
According to recent statements from his agency, Goldmedalist, the Queen of Tears star has been experiencing “extreme confusion and chaos.” Since the eruption of the scandal in early 2025, Kim has reportedly suffered from severe psychological instability and high levels of stress.
Sources close to the actor suggest he has largely withdrawn from public life, seeking solace in private activities like mountain climbing to manage his anxiety. During a rare, emotional press conference in March 2025, a tearful Kim admitted to living in “fear” and feeling “cowardly” under the weight of public scrutiny. While rumors of physical injuries (such as a fractured leg) were debunked as “fake news,” the toll on his mental well-being is confirmed to be significant.
The 10-Billion-Won Legal Battle
The actor’s health concerns are compounded by a complex web of legal battles that show no signs of concluding:
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Breach of Contract Lawsuits: Several major brands have terminated their contracts with Kim, citing “moral clauses.” A significant trial involving a prominent cosmetics brand is scheduled for March 13, 2026. Reports indicate he faces potential damages exceeding 10 billion KRW ($6.8 million USD).
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The “Grooming” Allegations: The bereaved family of Kim Sae Ron has filed complaints accusing the actor of violating the Child Welfare Act, alleging a relationship began when she was a minor. Kim’s legal team has fiercely denied these claims, asserting the relationship only occurred after she reached adulthood and accusing the family of fabricating evidence.
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Defamation Counter-Suits: In response to the allegations, Kim Soo Hyun has filed a 12-billion-won defamation and stalking lawsuit against the family and certain YouTube channels (including HoverLab/Garo Sero Institute).
Career on Standstill
The ongoing controversy has effectively frozen Kim’s once-flourishing career. His highly anticipated Disney+ series, Knock-Off, remains postponed indefinitely as the investigation reaches its “final stages,” according to the Seoul Metropolitan Police.
Furthermore, some of his assets, including a luxury property at Galleria Foret, were reportedly subject to temporary seizure last year due to unpaid penalties related to advertising disputes—a move his lawyers have called “unfair” as he maintains his status as a victim of malicious rumors.
What Lies Ahead
As the first anniversary of Kim Sae Ron’s death passed on February 16, 2026, public opinion remains deeply divided. The upcoming court dates in March are expected to be a turning point, potentially providing the clarity needed for Kim to either begin a path to recovery or face further professional fallout.
Would you like me to translate this article into Vietnamese or provide more details on the specific dates of the upcoming court hearings?
