A lawyer for the family of the late actress Kim Sae-Ron was reported to the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission last week in connection with a high-profile scandal surrounding actor Kim Soo-Hyun.
The attorney, Bu Ji-seok, faces allegations of serious misconduct related to the recent controversy.
A complainant, identified only as "A," filed a public interest report accusing Bu of providing incorrect legal counsel, which allegedly led to the unlawful release of private materials in the ongoing scandal.
Actor Kim Soo-hyun's agency previously filed a criminal complaint against Kim Sae-ron's family, YouTuber Garo Sero, and an individual claiming to be Kim Sae-ron's aunt.
The complaint centers on violations under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, specifically the illegal distribution of imagery.
According to the complaint, Bu purportedly advised the family in a manner that facilitated the dissemination of private materials.
"A" also alleges that Bu used his legal status to publicly endorse unverified information, damaging Kim Soo-hyun's reputation and career prospects.
The complaint further claims that Bu's statement during a press conference, which included allegations of "grooming," inflicted harm on Kim Soo-hyun's professional engagements, including a delay of the major Disney+ project "Knock Off."
The controversy began when Kim Sae-ron's family accused Kim Soo-hyun of dating her while she was a minor.
They presented alleged messenger conversations as evidence. During a press conference, Bu Ji-seok asserted that Kim Sae-ron was 17 at the time, claiming their relationship lasted five to six years.
Kim Soo-Hyun, however, has admitted to having been in a particular relationship with Kim Sae-Ron, stating that their relationship began after she became an adult.
As a result, Kim Soo-hyun has sued the publishers and authors for 87 million USD in defamation and damages.
While the scandal has yet to conclude, investigations continue, and Kim Soo-hyun's drama, "Knock Off," was indefinitely delayed.
