Kim Soo-hyun, Yoo Ah-in: how K-scandals are costing South Korea’s entertainment industry

Controversies involving stars like Kim Soo-hyun have caused delays and costly production changes across the industry

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South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun, embroiled in controversy over his relationship with actress the late Kim Sae-ron, sheds tears during a press conference in Seoul on March 31. Photo: Reuters

Published: 9:16pm, 14 May 2025Updated: 7:18am, 15 May 2025

As recent controversies surrounding performers trigger costly production disruptions and cast changes, South Korea’s entertainment industry is facing growing instability due to harsh scrutiny of celebrity scandals and the public’s demand for high ethical standards.

The industry is now grappling with how to handle completed projects starring controversial celebrities, after a recent scandal involving prominent actor Kim Soo-hyun, The Korea Times reported.

Kim, 37, faced intense public criticism over rumours of a relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, who died by suicide in February at age 24, and allegations that their relationship may have started when she was underage.

The backlash prompted streaming platform Disney+ to indefinitely delay the release of his highly anticipated series Knock-Off, initially scheduled for April.

The fallout from these “actor risks” causes more than delays and uncertainty; it also necessitates costly reshoots and production changes.

The variety show Good Day edited out footage featuring Kim from its episodes after the controversy was revealed.

Kim Soo-hyun, Yoo Ah-in: how K-scandals are costing South Korea’s entertainment industry

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Controversies involving stars like Kim Soo-hyun have caused delays and costly production changes across the industry

Controversies involving stars like Kim Soo-hyun have caused delays and costly production changes across the industry