Kim Soo-hyun’s Legal Team Vows Aggressive Action Against YouTuber, Eyeing Massive Damages
Kim Soo-hyun's representatives have signaled they will pursue extensive civil damages against controversial YouTuber Kim Se-eui, head of the Garoseoro Research Institute (often called “Gaseyeon”), potentially seeking up to 300 billion KRW in compensation.
Speaking on YTN’s “Wise Radio Life” on June 1, high-profile attorney Ko Sang-rok, representing Kim Soo-hyun, reiterated that the cyber defamation and false accusation campaign caused severe reputational and financial harm. Ko emphasized that authorities determined key evidence presented by Kim Se-eui including alleged KakaoTalk messages and recordings related to Kim’s past relationship with late actress Kim Sae-ron had been manipulated or fabricated using AI tools.
The lawyer noted that despite claims the National Forensic Service could not reach a definitive conclusion, a Seoul Court reviewed extensive records during a four-hour hearing and ultimately issued an arrest warrant for Kim Se-eui. This development, according to Ko, undermines the defense’s position that the materials were authentic.
Ko also addressed inconsistencies in statements from individuals associated with the YouTuber, suggesting efforts to retroactively justify sensational claims that lacked evidence. These included outlandish allegations of hired attacks and celebrity interventions, which he described as fabrications designed to fit a preconceived narrative.
The legal team initially filed a damages suit last year for around 12 billion KRW but is now reassessing the claim upward to reflect actual losses incurred over time. “We believe it is crucial not only to secure criminal punishment but also to impose strong civil liability,” Ko stated, adding that the goal is to dismantle the perpetrator’s economic foundation so such “heinous cyber crimes” cannot be repeated.
If the massive judgment is upheld, Ko warned that Kim Se-eui could face lifelong debt, as personal assets would likely fall far short of covering the amount.
The case has drawn significant public attention amid broader discussions about online defamation, the weaponization of unverified content, and the protection of celebrities’ personal lives. Kim Soo-hyun, one of Korea’s most prominent actors, has maintained a relatively low profile since the controversy erupted but continues to enjoy strong fan support.
This latest development underscores the entertainment industry’s growing resolve to combat malicious online campaigns through both criminal prosecution and substantial financial accountability. As the civil suit progresses, it may set a significant precedent for similar cases in Korea
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