Actor Kim Soo Hyun held an urgent press conference on March 31 to vehemently deny accusations of having been in a relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron when she was underage. The emotional denial aimed at dispelling the rumors has caused a stir among Korean social media users.

The controversy surrounding the alleged relationship has been at the forefront of the Korean entertainment industry lately, triggered by claims made by Kim Sae Ron's grieving family. They asserted that Kim Soo Hyun was involved with the actress since she was 15 and that he, along with his agency Gold Medalist, had a part in her unfortunate demise. The family contended that Kim Soo Hyun had a significant sway over Kim Sae Ron's life, and the agency's demands for a steep penalty fee had exacerbated her situation.

Following the spread of these accusations, Korean netizens criticized Kim Soo Hyun, labeling him as a "groomer" and a "pedophile." In an effort to defend himself, the actor organized a press conference, but his statements further fueled the backlash. The public, in particular, ridiculed his self-given title of "Star Kim Soo Hyun."

The press conference received widespread attention internationally, with over 13 million viewers in China tuning in. Korean social media users have since sarcastically commented on Kim Soo Hyun's newfound global "stardom."

"They need to add this to his resume. This is the peak of his career."

"13 million people are watching his performance just because he's 'Star Kim Soo Hyun.'"

"This is the highlight of his career."

"This is rather embarrassing."

"I'm utterly appalled. Even from a neutral standpoint. Setting everything else aside, the bereaved family didn't aim to completely ruin Kim Soo Hyun—they simply wanted him to acknowledge it. But a 12 billion KRW lawsuit? This shows that he is prepared to fight to the end. He has reached a deplorable point."

"This is bound to become a meme."

"Kim Soo Hyun was immensely popular in China."

"This is comical."

"'My Love from the Star' was a huge hit in China."

"If even China is criticizing him, then he's finished."

"That's a significant number of people..."

"Who would have predicted that Do Min Joon from 'My Love from the Star' would end up like this? Life is unpredictable."

"He's unquestionably 'Star' Kim Soo Hyun."