• Source:JND

South Korean actress Kim Sae-Ron has reportedly passed away at the age of 24. As per Korean media reports on February 16, she was found dead at her home in Seongdong-gu, Seoul. The news has come as a shock to many, as the actress had been keeping a low profile in recent years.

According to The Korea Herald, Kim's body was discovered by a friend who immediately alerted the authorities. Police arrived at her residence around 4:50-5:00 PM on Sunday. Initial investigations have ruled out any signs of foul play or forced entry. A police official, as cited by Chosun Biz, stated, "So far, no evidence of external intrusion or other criminal suspicions have been confirmed. The circumstances of death are under investigation."

The actress had been entangled in a DUI (driving under the influence) case in May 2022, when she crashed into an electrical transformer, causing a power outage in the neighborhood. Her blood alcohol content was reportedly 0.2 percent, leading to the revocation of her driver's license. Kim later issued a public apology through her agency and a handwritten letter, also compensating those affected by the incident. Following this, she was reported to be working part-time at a cafรฉ to manage financial difficulties. Her agency, Gold Medalist, confirmed, "It's true Kim Sae-Ron got a part-time job because her livelihood is in a difficult circumstance."

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Kim Sae-Ron attempted a return to acting in April 2024 through a theater project but withdrew due to controversies and health concerns. Later, in November 2024, reports suggested she had signed on for a new film titled Guitar Man, though no further updates were given about the project.

On March 24, 2024, Kim Sae-Ron sparked controversy by posting a selfie with actor Kim Soo-Hyun on her Instagram account. The photo, which showed them in an affectionate pose, was deleted within three minutes but quickly fueled speculation about a romantic relationship between the two stars. In response, Kim Soo-Hyun's agency, Gold Medalist, denied the dating rumors, clarifying that the picture was taken when both actors were part of the same agency and that Kim Sae-Ron's intentions behind posting it were unclear.

Following the incident, Kim Sae-Ron faced backlash from Kim Soo-Hyunโ€™s fans both domestically and internationally. A close associate of Kim Sae-Ron told Star News that she was going through a difficult time and was unsure of how to address the controversy. The associate hinted at a "complex story" behind the photo, suggesting that it was too intricate to be shared openly.

In a conversation with My Daily, Kim Sae-Ron mentioned that she was preparing a statement regarding the viral image. However, she later decided against it, stating, "I really thought hard to myself, and I feel that it would help me to be silent. I will not be making a statement and will no longer comment." Kim rose to fame as a child actress, earning acclaim for her performances in A Brand New Life, The Man From Nowhere and Bloodhounds, among others.

Also Read: Kim Sae-Ron Breaks Silence On Posting Intimate Photo With Kim Soo-Hyun: 'Will No Longer...'

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