South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron found dead at 24 in Seoul home

South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron, known for A Brand New Life, was found dead at 24, prompting an investigation.

South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron, known for her early success in film and television, was found dead at her home in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, on Sunday. She was 24.

A friend discovered her body after she failed to attend a scheduled meeting. Authorities have not found any signs of foul play but are continuing to investigate the circumstances of her death.

Born in 2000 in Seoul, Kim began acting at the age of nine and quickly rose to prominence. She gained international recognition with her performance in A Brand New Life (2009), which was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival, making her one of the youngest actors invited to the event. Her role in The Man From Nowhere (2010) further cemented her status as a rising star in South Korean cinema.

Kim transitioned seamlessly from child roles to more complex characters. She starred in films such as The Neighbor (2012) and A Girl at My Door (2014), earning praise for her acting versatility. She also had notable television roles in The Queen’s Classroom (2013), Hi! School-Love On (2014), and the period fantasy series Mirror of the Witch (2016). In 2018, she appeared in the action-thriller The Villagers.

In May 2022, Kim faced professional and personal setbacks after being charged with driving under the influence in Seoul’s Gangnam District. The incident, which resulted in property damage, led to a fine of KRW20 million ($13,815) and a temporary hiatus from acting.

She had been set to return to the screen with a role in the 2023 Netflix series Bloodhounds, but most of her scenes were removed following the DUI controversy. She later withdrew from the series Trolley and was expected to make her stage debut in the play Dongchimi in 2024 before stepping away.

Authorities continue to investigate her death, with further details yet to be released.