Kim Soo-hyun's agency: "No indictment for violation of the Child Welfare Act... Strong response to false information dissemination"

On the 14th, Gold Medalist, Kim Soo-hyun’s agency, announced through an official statement that the allegations of violating the Child Welfare Act against Kim Soo-hyun have been dismissed with a decision of ″no charges.″ The agency emphasized that the matter was proven to be false according to the investigation by the authorities and declared a firm stance to take strong action against the spread of false information and malicious defamation. Gold Medalist explained that all allegations, including claims that Kim Soo-hyun dated the deceased during their minor years and suspicions of violating the Child Welfare Act, lack factual and objective evidence. They stated that the investigative authorities thoroughly examined related materials and facts and concluded that the charges could not be recognized, resulting in the ″no charges″ disposition. Additionally, the agency revealed that Kim Se-ui, the operator of Garosero Research Institute who initially raised and continuously spread false information, has been issued an arrest warrant by the court on charges including defamation by spreading false information under the Information and Communications Network Act and is currently detained awaiting trial. They warned that continuing to cite, repost, share, or redistribute Kim Se-ui’s claims as if they were true constitutes additional illegal acts. Gold Medalist also stated that posting audiovisual materials such as screens, photos, and videos used in Garosero Research Institute broadcasts without separate captions, indicating sources, or simply sharing others’ posts is not exempt from legal responsibility. They informed that legal action will be taken not only against the spread of false information but also against insults, personal attacks, malicious ridicule and defamation, posts that distort facts, and indirect defamation such as using initials. The agency is currently reviewing legal measures including criminal charges for obstruction of business under the Criminal Act and civil claims for damages against those who have interfered with Kim Soo-hyun’s activities and the company’s business through the dissemination of false information. They added that, depending on the seriousness of the matter, criminal prosecution will proceed without settlement, and separate civil lawsuits for business damages will be filed based on the trial results. Furthermore, the agency requested the immediate voluntary deletion of related posts, comments, videos, and images by those who created, shared, or redistributed them. They emphasized that whether or not voluntary deletion occurs may be considered during sentencing and damage assessment in future judicial procedures, but it does not extinguish criminal and civil liabilities for the illegal acts already committed. Gold Medalist expressed the hope that no one will suffer unnecessary judicial disadvantages such as criminal punishment or claims for damages by sympathizing with the false claims and illegal acts of the accused who has been indicted and detained. They stated they will take all legal measures against violations of their affiliated artist’s rights and acts that interfere with the company’s normal business and work activities.