Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Sae-Ron controversy: His scenes from Good Day edited out, show makers say, ‘Prioritising reactions of viewers’ | Hollywood News
Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun became the centre of attraction in actress Kim Sae-Ron’s death case after it was recently revealed that the two were secretly dating since 2015, when the late actress was just 15 (minor) and Soo Hyun, 27. The news came in light after YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute released a phone conversation with Sae-Ron’s aunt. Following the revelation, Kim Soo Hyun was dropped as the brand ambassador for Prada for dating a minor. Now, the makers of Korean drama Good Day too have decided to drop scenes featuring the actor due to severe backlash netizens.The makers of the show recently shared a statement, where they apologised for causing concerns to those who have been watching the show for the sudden changes. The statement read, “Hello, this is the production team of “Good Day.” First, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to those who have been watching Good Day. The production team is fully aware of the gravity of the controversy surrounding one of the cast members and is continuing production while prioritizing the reactions of our viewers.”
Sharing an explanation for the uncertainty and lack of link in the episode 5 of the show, the makers said that the program was pre-produced at least two weeks in advance of its broadcast due to the translation process required for overseas broadcasting or streaming. They said, “Episode 5, which aired yesterday, was edited urgently to remove Kim Soo Hyun’s footage from the “Good Day General Assembly” segment. This decision was made as soon as the controversy arose, in agreement with MBC and global OTT platforms, even though the episode had already been submitted and was in the process of being translated. As a result, episode 5 was approximately 10 minutes shorter than usual and lacked some details.”
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They further wrote, “Regarding the recording session held on March 13, the production team had been waiting for the official statement from Kim Soo Hyun’s agency amidst delays in the scheduled recording of the “Good Day” soundtrack. However, the agency informed us that their statement would be released the following week (March 13), and securing the cast member’s schedule after that date would be difficult. After much deliberation, we had no choice but to proceed with the recording. The production team conducted the recording and sketch filming with careful consideration, ensuring minimal overlap with other cast members and keeping in mind the possibility of editing out the footage. We sincerely apologize for causing concern to those who love “Good Day” during this process.”
The team further feared that Kim Soo Hyun’s controversy would damage the purpose of Good Day, “which began with good intentions, as well as the sincerity of the cast members who have participated wholeheartedly and the love and support of viewers.”
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They clarified, “The “Good Day General Assembly” content, which began airing in the latter part of episode 5 yesterday, was filmed on February 18 and will unfold over the next six to seven episodes. The production team has decided to edit out Kim Soo Hyun’s appearances as much as possible. Additionally, the individual recording session involving the cast member on March 13 will not be aired.”Story continues below this ad
Irrespective of the changes, the makers, however, promised to ensure that the remaining episodes bring joy to their viewers. They concluded their statement with: “We will also pay close attention to the feelings of the cast members who are part of this journey and strive to make “Good Day” a program that can be enjoyed with good people on good days.”
Kim Sae-ron died on February 16, coinciding with Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday.
Other brands that dropped Kim Soo Hyun
Previously, on March 14, Prada dropped Kim Soo Hyun as its brand ambassador. In a statement, the brand stated: “We would like to inform you that after considering the severity of the issue, our collaboration with Kim Soo Hyun has been mutually concluded. The contract has been terminated. The decision came from headquarters.”
Apart from Good Day, and Prada, several other brands are reportedly reevaluating their collaborations. On March 11, vegan beauty brand Dinto, for which the actor serves as a model, put all promotional activities featuring him on hold. Additionally, bakery chain Trous les Jours has also deleted advertisements featuring Kim Soo Hyun from all its social media handles as of March 12.Story continues below this ad
What is the controversy about?
Kim Soo Hyun is accused of dating Kim Sae Ron in 2015 when she was a minor, while he was 27. These revelation was made after a YouTube channel brought to light a phone conversation with Sae-ron’s aunt. Soo Hyun’s agency, Gold Medal, initially denied any romantic involvement, however, later confirmed that the two did date, but only after Sae-ron turned 19 (legal age in Korea).
In its statement, Gold Medal also confessed that Soo-hyun had been “guiding” Sae-ron since she was 15. Kim Sae-ron’s career took a massive hit after her 2022 DUI incident, where she crashed into public property while intoxicated. She also faced a 700 million won debt post her DUI case, which reportedly Kim Soo-hyun’s agency forced her to repay. They reportedly threatened a legal action against her when requested more time and didn’t allow her The Man from Nowhere co-star Won Bin help her repay the debt, increasing the financial pressure.
However, these allegations were denied Gold Medal, stating that these were standard procedure to protect the company from financial fraud. On February 16, the actress was found dead. While there has been no confirmed link between her death and her relationship with the Queen of Tears actor, netizens speculate that the financial pressure, lack of work post DUI case, and online harassment contributed to the actress taking the drastic step.
