Full Breakdown
Kim Soo-hyun’s Bench Campaign Marks Return After Controversy
6/8/2026, 11:28:15 PM
Bench Shoot Signals Return
South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun will film a print advertisement for the Philippine fashion label Bench on July 14, according to his agency Gold Medalist. The assignment, location not disclosed, constitutes his first official public activity in roughly a year.
Controversy and Legal Fallout
In March 2025, Kim faced accusations that he had dated actress Kim Sae-ron for six years beginning in 2015 while she was a minor and that he pressured her over debt repayment. The actress died by suicide on his birthday in February 2025. Police later determined that KakaoTalk messages and audio recordings presented by the YouTube channel HoverLab were manipulated. HoverLab’s operator, Kim Se-ui, was arrested on charges of spreading false information and fabricating evidence with artificial-intelligence tools. Following the scandal, several advertisers—including FromBio, Cuckoo Electronics, Trendmaker, Classys, Eider and Mido—filed damages lawsuits against Kim, totaling billions of won. The Disney+ series “Knock-Off” was placed on indefinite hold.
Official Statements
Gold Medalist thanked supporters and investigative authorities for uncovering the truth and praised the judicial decision on the suspect’s custody. The agency noted that Kim’s activities were suspended pending the legal process. Kim Soo-hyun himself reiterated that his relationship with Kim Sae-ron began only after she reached adulthood.
Criticism and Brand Withdrawals
Industry observers highlighted the rapid termination of Kim’s endorsement contracts after the allegations, citing reputational risk. Critics argued that his continued prominence despite the controversy raised questions about accountability within the entertainment sector.
Conflicting Reports and Uncertainties
Gold Medalist confirmed the July 14 shoot, but the exact filming location—whether in the Philippines or South Korea—remains unspecified. Bench has not issued an official statement, and some media reports suggest the campaign is still under negotiation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Kim Soo Hyun will participate in a print advertisement shoot for the leading Philippine fashion brand Bench on July 14,” — Gold Medalist
- “Kim Soo-hyun's side issued an official statement, saying, "We are grateful to those who have spoken on Kim Soo-hyun's behalf for a long time even though they were not directly involved in the case, as well as everyone who investigated and worked to uncover the truth.” — Gold Medalist
- “I deeply appreciate those who spoke out for a long time on behalf of Kim Soo-hyun, who was waiting for the procedure set by the law, despite not being a direct party to the case.” — Kim Soo-hyun
- “READ: Kim Soo-hyun’s agency says truth finally proven after YouTuber’s arrest Soo-hyun denied the allegations during a press conference, maintaining that their relationship only began after Sae-ron had already reached adulthood.” — Kim Soo-hyun
Future Outlook
If confirmed, the Bench campaign would signal the beginning of Kim’s return to the public eye. Ongoing lawsuits and any further legal determinations will shape the trajectory of his career revival.
