On July 14, actor Kim Soo Hyun’s agency Gold Medalist confirmed to Xports News that the actor is filming a commercial and promotional photoshoot for Philippine lifestyle brand BENCH.
The shoot marks Kim Soo Hyun’s first official schedule in approximately one year and four months, after his activities were effectively halted following allegations related to the late actress Kim Sae Ron in March last year.
Kim Soo Hyun has denied allegations that he dated Kim Sae Ron while she was a minor, maintaining that their relationship began only after she became an adult. The actor later filed criminal complaints against Kim Se Ui, the head of the YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute, accusing him of defamation over claims related to the controversy. Kim Se Ui has since been indicted and detained on multiple charges, including criminal defamation, violating South Korea’s sexual violence laws, blackmail, and attempted coercion.
Separately, Kim Soo Hyun also became involved in a civil lawsuit filed by one of his former advertisers. On July 8, a South Korean court recommended mediation during the second hearing of a damages lawsuit filed by outdoor brand Eider against Kim Soo Hyun and Gold Medalist. Eider had originally sought approximately 2.5 billion won (around US$1.8 million) in damages, arguing that the controversy surrounding the actor had harmed the brand’s image.
During the latest hearing, however, the company reportedly reduced its claim to approximately 400 million won, shifting its request from reputational damages to the return of the remaining model fees under the endorsement contract.
While it remains unclear when the actor will resume domestic entertainment projects, the overseas campaign represents his first confirmed professional activity since the controversy paused much of his career.
Sources: 네이트 뉴스
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