Police Seek Arrest Warrant Against YouTuber
South Korean police are pursuing an arrest warrant for YouTuber and media personality Kim Se-ui over allegations that he created fake evidence using artificial intelligence to defame actor Kim Soo-hyun.
Investigators claim the YouTuber manipulated screenshots of text messages and used AI-generated audio to falsely suggest that Kim Soo-hyun had dated late actress Kim Sae-ron when she was underage.
The controversy reportedly began shortly after Kim Sae-ron’s death last year. She died at the age of 24, and the incident sparked widespread public discussion across South Korea’s entertainment industry.
Alleged AI Audio and Edited Messages
According to authorities, Kim Se-ui uploaded a voice recording online that appeared to feature Kim Sae-ron claiming she had been in a relationship with Kim Soo-hyun since middle school.
Police now believe the recording was created using AI technology. They also allege that screenshots of private messages were altered to make it appear as though the actress had exchanged texts with the actor.
Investigators say the false claims were intentionally spread online to attract attention and generate financial profit through views and engagement.
Kim Se-ui has denied wrongdoing. In a recent video, he claimed the investigation against him was an attempt to interfere with his own reporting activities.
Career and Mental Health Impact on Kim Soo-hyun
The allegations severely affected Kim Soo-hyun’s public image and professional career. Police documents reportedly state that the scandal damaged his reputation, disrupted his business activities, and harmed his ability to continue working in the entertainment industry.
Authorities also revealed that the actor is currently receiving psychiatric treatment due to the emotional stress linked to the controversy.
Kim Soo-hyun has repeatedly denied all accusations connected to the case.
South Korea’s Celebrity Culture Under Pressure
Celebrities in South Korea often face intense public scrutiny. Even minor controversies can lead to major backlash, damaged careers, and loss of public support.
Before her death, Kim Sae-ron had already faced criticism online following a 2022 drink-driving incident. Despite being considered one of the country’s most talented young actresses, she struggled with public criticism after the case.
Following her death, rumors about her alleged relationship with Kim Soo-hyun quickly spread across social media platforms. The controversy gained momentum after the release of the alleged audio recording and edited messages.
Kim Soo-hyun’s agency initially denied that the two stars had ever been romantically involved.
