Actor Kim Soo-hyun has publicly addressed the ongoing allegations surrounding his relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron, asserting that they were together for a year after she became an adult.

On March 31, Kim Soo-hyun held a press conference at a hotel in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, accompanied by his legal representative, Attorney Kim Jong-bok from LKB&Partners. This marked his first public appearance in 21 days, following claims made by Kim Sae-ron’s family on March 10 alleging a six-year relationship that began during her minor years. Gold Medalist, Kim’s agency, announced beforehand that the actor would not take any questions beyond his prepared statement.

In his emotional address, Kim began, “First, I am sorry. Because of me alone, so many people are suffering. I also deeply regret that the deceased cannot rest in peace. I consider myself a coward. I was always too focused on protecting what I had. I couldn’t even trust the kindness shown to me, constantly afraid of losing something or being harmed, running away, and denying everything. That’s why it took so long for me to stand here today.”

He continued, “If I had faced this from the beginning, the fans who loved me, the company staff who worked tirelessly for this press conference, and everyone else wouldn’t have suffered this much.”

Fighting back tears, he confessed, “Every time our private lives were exposed, I thought, ‘Tomorrow, I’ll speak up. I’ll end this hellish situation myself.’ But each time, I hesitated. I worried about how my decision would affect those around me and whether it would make things worse for everyone.”

Kim Soo-hyun also addressed the controversy sparked by a past social media post from Kim Sae-ron. “When the late Kim posted a photo with me during the airing of ‘Queen of Tears,’ I denied it. We dated for about a year, four years before ‘Queen of Tears’ aired, five years ago. I understand why people criticize my choice to lie then. Even if you don’t believe what I say now about our relationship, I get it. But I believe this is my only chance to speak openly like this.”

Previously, Kim had firmly denied dating Kim Sae-ron from 2015 to 2021, calling the claims “clearly false.” However, after texts, couple photos, and other evidence were revealed by her family, he reversed his stance, admitting to a one-year relationship after she became an adult.

As the controversy continues, Kim Soo-hyun’s emotional statement may mark a turning point in the unfolding situation.