South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun is at the centre of controversy after a handwritten love letter he allegedly wrote to the late actress Kim Sae-ron surfaced. The letter, dated June 9, 2018, was reportedly sent to Sae-ron when she was 17 years old and he was 30, sparking outrage due to the significant age difference.
In the letter, which Kim Soo Hyun penned during his military service, he expressed his deep affection for Sae-ron, referring to her as “Saero-Nero” and writing about how much he missed her.
The letter, which was provided by Sae-ron’s aunt, reveals Kim Soo Hyun’s desire to share beautiful moments with Sae-ron, despite being physically separated.
Photo: Garosero Research Institute
“2018. 6. 9 Saero-Nero,
Today, the weather was so unpredictable that I felt like I was being tossed around in all directions this wonderful Saturday. What a great day for writing something and thinking about you, Saero-Nero.
This morning, in the foggy haze, I wondered, ‘What kind of a day will it be today…?’ Caught up in that feeling, I went straight to the noraebang (karaoke) and tried some Shin Seung Hoon songs, butchered them, and got in trouble for doing him disgrace…
Maybe an hour or so later, the sun started blazing—the same sun that messed with my skin. I thought, ‘This is a sign.’ So, I grabbed some oil and went up to the helipad. Tanned both sides. After an hour, I couldn’t handle it anymore because it got too hot. Then, I ate some lunch and am now watching some reruns of Heart Signal 2, cheering on for the contestants.
It got dark outside again. Soon enough, the stormy clouds are letting go of everything they held onto, making all sorts of strange noises. I thought, ‘Wow. I’m so glad I’m not on a training mission today.’ About an hour later, the rain stopped unexpectedly. Perhaps the clouds went too hard, too fast. Or maybe it’s gearing up for round two. Anyway, the clouds stayed, but the weather cleared. The sun began gleaming in the clouds. The shadows of the clouds deepened, and through those shadows, rays of sunshine began bursting out. It was a sight worth seeing, but I didn’t have a camera with me.”
— Kim Soo Hyun
The discovery of the letter has reignited discussions around their relationship and raised questions about the appropriateness of such a bond given the age gap. While it is unclear how the letter came to light, it has been widely shared online, drawing attention to the nature of their relationship.
Kim Soo Hyun has yet to comment on the resurfacing of the letter, and the controversy continues to evolve.
Kim Sae-ron, who tragically passed away in February 2025, had a complex public image, marred by legal issues. However, this letter has added a new layer to the ongoing speculation surrounding her relationships.
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