Kim Soo Hyun’s agency faces financial crisis amid Kim Sae Ron controversy—Is bankruptcy imminent?

Kim Soo Hyun, once regarded as South Korea’s highest-paid actor, is facing turbulent times, not only due to his alleged involvement in the Kim Sae Ron dating scandal but also because his agency, GOLDMEDALIST, appears to be struggling financially. The controversy has led to a wave of backlash with multiple brands cutting ties with the actor, further exacerbating the agency’s monetary troubles.
According to a report from News18, GOLDMEDALIST’s financial health has deteriorated to a critical point, raising concerns about its stability. The situation is so dire that the agency has reportedly suspended its contract with an external cleaning service, signaling an attempt to cut costs in a bid to stay afloat. Once a thriving company, the agency now seems to be on shaky ground, with fears mounting that it could collapse if the current crisis continues.
On March 31, 2025, Kim Soo Hyun made a rare public appearance at a press conference. Industry insiders believe this was not just a response to the controversy surrounding him but also a calculated move to reassure investors and salvage his agency from potential bankruptcy. Experts speculate that the event was a desperate effort to manage the crisis, with some suggesting that if the scandal persists, GOLDMEDALIST might be forced to shut down entirely.
A financial analyst familiar with the company’s situation revealed that GOLDMEDALIST previously maintained a financial surplus of around 2 to 3 billion KRW (approximately USD 1.36 million to USD 2.04 million). However, the recent turmoil has drained its reserves. The cancellation of over 20 endorsement deals tied to Kim Soo Hyun has had a massive financial impact. Although some brands have refrained from imposing heavy penalties, the combination of refunding prepaid endorsement fees, event cancellations and high operational costs has put immense pressure on the agency’s budget.
While GOLDMEDALIST has not officially confirmed its financial distress rumors suggest that the agency is actively seeking external investment to avoid total collapse. A financial industry expert disclosed, “Before the press conference, the company was reportedly in urgent need of securing around 6 billion KRW (approximately USD 4.08 million). There are also reports that they have discontinued the use of outsourced cleaning services, hinting at internal cost-cutting measures.”
Amid the crisis, Kim Soo Hyun has also taken legal steps to mitigate his losses. The actor has filed a lawsuit for damages amounting to 12 billion KRW (approximately USD 12.24 million) against Kim Sae Ron’s family, an unnamed relative and the Garosero Research Institute YouTube channel, accusing them of causing financial harm.
As GOLDMEDALIST fights to stay afloat, the uncertainty surrounding Kim Soo Hyun’s career and the agency’s future remains a hot topic. Whether the company will secure the necessary funds to survive or face an inevitable downfall is something only time will tell.