A recently revealed phone call recording supports assertions that the deceased actress Kim Sae Ron had accrued significant debt to her agency due to hospital expenses after an apparent self-harm incident.

On March 24th, Lee Jin Ho, a former journalist turned YouTuber, posted a video on his YouTube channel titled “Kim Sae Ron’s Last Recording - The Sad Truth About Her Medical Bills”.

Lee clarified that Kim Sae Ron supposedly tried to take her own life the year before, resulting in hospital fees of 5 million won per hospital visit. As she reportedly lacked the funds at that time, her agency covered the costs, which were later noted as a loan.

There have been queries about whether the agency misappropriated the funds or engaged in fraudulent activities, as some find it hard to believe that hospital expenses could reach 5 million won. It is highlighted that usual emergency medical treatment expenses typically do not surpass 400,000 to 1 million won. Nonetheless, Kim’s circumstances were unique. Lee shared a phone conversation from when Kim was alive with a close acquaintance to back this up.

In the recording, Kim mentions, “I injured the ligaments and tendons in my arm. It’s severe, requiring surgery, but insurance will not cover it. It will cost around 5 million won.”

Korea’s National Health Insurance Service currently does not extend coverage for self-inflicted injuries according to the National Health Insurance Act’s Article 53, which specifies that intentional injuries or illnesses are not eligible for medical benefits.

Lee commented, “Most people would seek support from their family in such a situation. However, Kim possibly hesitated due to concerns about imposing financial or emotional burdens on them. It seems that the late actress endured a very isolated and challenging existence."