Actor Kim Soo-hyun is at risk of losing multiple advertising contracts following allegations of a past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. The controversy could lead to significant financial penalties for the actor.
According to industry insiders, Kim Soo-hyun currently serves as a model for 16 brands, including Eider (apparel), Shabu All Day (food), Dinto (cosmetics), Homeplus (retail), Shinhan Bank (finance), Tous Les Jours (food), Cuckoo (electronics), Prada (luxury goods), and Jo Malone London (luxury goods). However, claims by Kim Sae-ron’s family about their alleged relationship have cast doubt on his suitability as a brand ambassador.
CJ Foodville, the operator of Tous Les Jours, announced on the 13th that it would terminate its contract with Kim Soo-hyun. Homeplus, which featured him in its “Homeplun” campaign, also decided to exclude him from its upcoming “Encore! Homeplun is Back” event starting on the 19th. Additionally, Eider, an outdoor fashion brand under K2 Korea Group, removed Kim’s advertisements from its website and social media channels.
Kim Soo-hyun rose to fame after the success of the 2012 drama My Love from the Star, which reportedly earned him approximately 10 million annually in modeling fees, with his total advertising revenue estimated at around 500 million. Notably, he received $2.25 million per episode for his recent hit drama Queen of Tears.
Given his high modeling and appearance fees, the cancellation of contracts could result in substantial penalties. Advertising contracts typically include clauses requiring the advertiser to pay two to three times the advertising fee in cases of legal violations or social controversies. Industry estimates suggest Kim Soo-hyun’s penalties could reach up to $200 million.
In an official statement, Kim Soo-hyun denied allegations of having a relationship with Kim Sae-ron while she was a minor, as well as claims that he was pressured to pay approximately $5 million related to a drunk driving incident. However, he acknowledged that they dated for two years after Kim Sae-ron reached adulthood.
Public sentiment toward Kim Soo-hyun has turned negative, with many criticizing his team for inconsistencies in their statements. Critics argue that the lack of a clear justification has damaged the credibility of his claims.
As the situation develops, the impact on Kim Soo-hyun’s career and financial standing remains uncertain.
