Recent reports indicate that actor Kim Soo Hyun is facing significant legal challenges from brands that previously engaged him as a promotional model. The “Queen of Tears” actor is reportedly being sued for 3 billion won in damages.
Kim Soo Hyun Sued for 3 Billion Won
On April 28, two companies—referred to anonymously as “A” and “B”—filed civil suits seeking reimbursement of the model fees they paid Kim Soo Hyun, as well as additional damages tied to lost marketing value. According to legal sources, these combined claims total approximately 3 billion won (around $2.1 million) .
A third company, “C,” has already terminated its advertising contract with Kim Soo Hyun on grounds of breach of trust and is reportedly considering similar legal action to recoup fees and impose contractual penalties. In South Korea’s entertainment industry, such terminations often invoke “morals clauses” in contracts, allowing brands to void agreements if a talent’s public conduct undermines the company’s image.
Attorney Park Sung Woo of Wooree Law Firm—representing the suing companies—explained that Kim Soo Hyun held endorsement contracts with 15 different brands, each worth roughly 1 billion to 1.2 billion won (about $698,000 to $837,000) in model fees . Park noted that advertisers are traditionally hesitant to be the first to sue a high-profile celebrity, but once one company takes legal action, others often follow suit to protect their own interests and encourage settlement.
These lawsuits also come in the wake of Kim Soo Hyun’s recent public controversies, which have prompted several brands to pause or cancel scheduled campaigns featuring him. With multiple civil suits now in play, additional advertisers may feel compelled to file their own claims to recover expenses and safeguard their reputations.
Agency Response and Next Steps
Kim Soo Hyun’s agency, GOLDMEDALIST, has stated that they “have not yet confirmed whether a lawsuit has been filed,” and are reportedly reviewing the situation internally. If the suits proceed, they will enter the civil court process, where plaintiffs must prove breach of contract or reputational harm. Kim Soo Hyun may choose to negotiate settlements or contest the claims, but either path will also likely involve detailed contract reviews, expert testimony on market losses, and potential appeals.
As this legal saga unfolds, it will not only shape Kim Soo Hyun’s future endorsements but also underscore the risks that brands face when high-profile talents become embroiled in public controversies.
