Kim Soo-hyun 'The Trial of the Century'… Legal Experts Are in Agreement
Legal experts discuss the complexities of grooming accusations, defamation, and the reliability of digital evidence of Kim Soo-hyun's case.
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Legal experts discuss the complexities of grooming accusations, defamation, and the reliability of digital evidence of Kim Soo-hyun's case.
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On March 30, at a tearful press conference, Kim Soo-hyun firmly declared, “I did not do what I did not do,” announcing his intent to fight in court. The legal dispute is expected to center around allegations of grooming, defamation, coercion, threats, and false accusations.
However, the nature of the battle between Kim Soo-hyun and the family of the late Kim Sae-ron remains unclear. Whether this fight seeks to restore the deceased’s honor or clarify the circumstances that led to her tragic end is uncertain. Many believe that analyzing this scandal purely through legal means turns it into a messy public spectacle.
Legal experts express skepticism about the case’s viability. Attorney Kim Tae-hyun, a former legal counsel for Samsung, remarked, “Morally, he can be criticized, but whether he can be criminally prosecuted is questionable. The family released private messages, but they also exposed unrelated personal details. It’s unclear whether this was done for public interest or personal motives.”
Former prosecutor Kim Kwang-sam, appearing on YTN’s NewsNOW, stated, “Dating a minor is not illegal in itself. Even if emotional intimacy or physical contact existed, it is difficult to establish grounds for criminal charges. Any contractual penalties he may face are likely minimal.”
Attorney No Jong-eon, an expert in criminal and family law, emphasized, “Proving facts in this case is challenging. Text messages, videos, and witness testimonies conflict, meaning law enforcement must determine credibility. Courts rely on clear evidence, consistency, and forensic validation, making it difficult to reach a definitive legal judgment.”
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Some see Kim Soo-hyun’s press conference as a strategic move to protect his public image. Attorney Yang Ji-min, a former news anchor, noted, “Kim Soo-hyun’s decision to speak publicly is likely aimed at minimizing financial losses due to reputational damage. Since public opinion plays a crucial role in prolonged legal battles, his preemptive statement may offer strategic advantages.” This suggests an attempt to shift the narrative in his favor.
Beyond celebrity scandal, this case raises critical legal questions about the reliability of digital evidence, posthumous interpretation of private messages, and the boundaries of defamation law. With these issues at stake, Kim Soo-hyun’s trial could set a significant legal precedent, solidifying it as one of the most high-profile courtroom battles in recent history.
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