Kim Soo-hyun's Lawsuit Heats Up: Who's Responsible for Ad Damages After Controversy?

What's at Stake in This Lawsuit?

On August 20, 2025, Kim Soo-hyun and his agency, Gold Medalist, faced their first court hearing in a major damages claim. Advertisers are seeking over 100 billion won, pointing to fallout from a personal controversy involving the late Kim Sae-ron. It's not just about money— this could set rules for how far companies can hold celebrities accountable.

The Background of the Drama

The trouble started with rumors about Kim Soo-hyun's private life. Advertisers, like Prombio, pulled their deals and filed lawsuits. They argue that Kim Soo-hyun caused public backlash and handled the fallout poorly. On the other side, Kim Soo-hyun's team says these claims are unfair. They point out that false accusations spread online, and now they're dealing with the fallout. It's like getting blamed for someone else's mess.

What Happened in Court?

During the hearing at the Suwon District Court's civil division, both sides laid out their arguments. The advertisers focused on Kim Soo-hyun's response to the controversy, claiming it made things worse. Kim's team pushed back, noting that public opinion has shifted and the accusations look baseless now. The judge mentioned that ongoing criminal cases might play a role here. For now, the court is moving to the next steps, but it's clear this is far from over.

Why This Matters for the Industry

This isn't just a celebrity spat. If the advertisers win, it might mean stars have to pay up even before any proof is solid. That could scare off actors from big deals. On the flip side, companies want protection for their investments. Either way, the final decision will shape how entertainment and advertising worlds handle scandals. And that's why people in the industry are watching closely.