South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun has found himself embroiled in controversy after a handwritten love letter, allegedly written by him to the late actress Kim Sae-ron, surfaced online. The letter, dated June 9, 2018, was reportedly sent to Sae-ron when she was 17 years old, while Kim Soo Hyun was 30. The significant age difference has sparked widespread criticism and debate.
The letter, which Kim Soo Hyun wrote during his military service, expresses his deep feelings for Sae-ron, whom he affectionately referred to as “Saero-Nero.” In the note, he shared his longing for her and described his desire to create beautiful memories despite their physical separation. The letter was reportedly provided by Sae-ron’s aunt, adding credibility to its authenticity.
The content of the letter, which has been widely circulated online, reads:
*“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.”*
The emergence of the letter has reignited discussions about the nature of their relationship, with many questioning the appropriateness of such a bond given the age gap. While it remains unclear how the letter came to light, its widespread sharing online has drawn significant attention.
Kim Soo Hyun has not yet publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the letter. Meanwhile, the late Kim Sae-ron, who passed away in February 2025, had a complicated public image, often overshadowed by legal troubles. This letter has added a new dimension to the ongoing speculation about her personal life and relationships.
As the debate continues, the incident highlights the complexities of celebrity relationships and the scrutiny they face in the public eye.
