The aftershocks of actor Kim Soo Hyun‘s recent personal controversy are now hitting his wallet hard. Legal sources revealed on April 28th KST that two companies, identified as A and B, have filed lawsuits against the actor and his agency, GOLDMEDALIST. The bone of contention? Breach of contract stemming from the negative publicity surrounding the controversy.
These advertisers aren’t just looking to sever ties; they’re demanding significant financial redress. The combined amount sought by Companies A and B reportedly surpasses a staggering 3 billion KRW, which translates to approximately 2 million USD. This substantial figure includes the return of modeling fees already paid and additional damages incurred due to the actor’s tarnished image.
And it seems the legal storm is far from over for Kim Soo Hyun. Company C is also reportedly weighing its options and considering filing its own lawsuit. Citing a breach of trust, they are looking to terminate their advertising contract with the actor and pursue either the return of their investment or hefty penalties.
Adding further context to the situation, entertainment lawyer Park Sung Woo from Woori Law Firm shed light on the industry’s typical advertising deals.
“It is known within the industry that Kim Soo Hyun signed advertising contracts with about 15 brands, with each domestic contract reportedly valued at around 1 to 1.2 billion KRW.”
Park Sung Woo further elaborated on the domino effect often seen in such cases.
“Advertisers usually try to avoid being the first to publicly sue a model. However, once news of a lawsuit emerges, it is likely that more advertisers will follow.”
If more of the approximately 15 brands decide to pursue legal action, the total financial damage could balloon to over 10 billion KRW.
What are your thoughts on Kim Soo Hyun being sued by advertisers? Let us know in the comment section below.
