Actor Kim Soo-hyun faces escalating troubles as an advertiser filed for the provisional seizure of one of his luxury apartments. The medical device company, which previously hired Kim as a brand ambassador, filed the claim on May 8. Soon after, the Seoul Eastern District Court approved the seizure of Kim’s apartment in the upscale Galleria Foret complex. The claim involves a penalty fee reportedly worth 3 billion won ($2.2 million). This latest legal action adds to the ongoing Kim Soo-hyun controversy surrounding his professional and personal life.
The advertiser ended its contract with Kim following his scandal linked to the late actress Kim Sae-ron. The company demanded compensation, which it says Kim has yet to pay. Meanwhile, Kim owns three luxury units in the Galleria Foret area of Seoul’s Seongdong District. He bought two units in 2013 and 2014 and acquired a penthouse in January 2024. The total market value of these properties now stands at roughly 30 billion won, highlighting the stakes involved in the legal dispute.
Kim’s lawyers from LKB & Partners confirmed the apartment seizure relates to the advertiser’s compensation claim. However, they strongly denied false allegations from the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, also known as Gaseyeon. The law firm argued that Kim Soo-hyun is actually the victim of criminal acts. They expressed concern over the secondary harm he continues to suffer due to the ongoing controversy. This public dispute deepens the Kim Soo-hyun controversy, casting a shadow over his career.
The controversy initially erupted after suspicions emerged that Kim dated Kim Sae-ron for six years, starting when she was a minor. Gaseyeon released private photos and messages, citing claims from the late actress’s family. Kim held a press conference in March, denying all allegations and insisting their relationship began only after she turned legal age. Following this, his legal team filed criminal complaints and civil lawsuits against Gaseyeon’s CEO and Kim Sae-ron’s family members.
In response to the legal actions, Kim’s lawyers also sought provisional seizure of two apartments owned by Gaseyeon’s CEO, granted in June by the Seoul Central District Court. Despite his recent success in the drama “Queen of Tears,” Kim’s upcoming Disney+ series “Knock Off” has been postponed. Furthermore, his endorsement deals have been put on hold amid the legal turmoil. The Kim Soo-hyun controversy continues to impact his public image and professional opportunities significantly.
