SEOUL, South Korea — The recent passing of South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron has sparked a wave of sorrow and has reignited discussions about the treatment of public figures in the nation, particularly regarding social media which many claim can contribute to a hostile environment.
The 24-year-old actress, who transitioned into the spotlight as a child star and gained recognition for her performances in notable films such as the 2010 crime drama “The Man from Nowhere,” was discovered deceased in her apartment in Seoul by a friend on Sunday. Authorities have indicated that they believe her death to be a suicide, with the National Police Agency stating that there are no suspicions of foul play and that Kim did not leave behind a note.
Once a prominent figure in South Korea’s thriving film and television industry, Kim faced difficulties in securing roles following a drunk driving incident in 2022, which ultimately led to a court-imposed fine.
In South Korea, public sentiment towards celebrities can be particularly harsh, especially when they stumble in their careers. Kim encountered a barrage of negative media scrutiny, as various news outlets capitalized on the public’s perception, scrutinizing her every misstep. Reports were often critical of her social activities, such as attending parties, and she faced backlash for voicing her feelings of being overlooked and for dealing with the harshness of online comments. Even seemingly innocuous moments—like smiling while filming an independent project—were sources of ridicule.
In the wake of Kim’s tragic death, major South Korean newspapers published strong editorials advocating for a reevaluation of the vicious commentary directed at celebrities. Some reminded readers of the tragic demises of K-Pop stars, Sulli and Goo Hara, as well as actor Lee Sun-kyun, highlighting the need for a shift away from the “harsh, zero-tolerance” mentality that surrounds public figures.
The Hankook Ilbo newspaper pointed fingers at media organizations, asserting that they perpetuate the problem by using sensational headlines that capitalize on Kim’s struggles, even posthumously.
At a press conference on Tuesday, the Citizens’ Coalition for Democratic Media expressed concern over news outlets shifting blame towards social media without reflecting on their roles in promoting sensational and provocative stories.
Born in 2000, Kim began her journey in acting at the age of nine with the film “A Brand New Life,” which depicted a young girl’s challenges after being abandoned at an orphanage. Her breakthrough came with “The Man from Nowhere,” which became one of the year’s standout films in South Korea and earned her accolades in domestic awards.
Despite her earlier success across various films and television programs, her career altered significantly following the 2022 incident. Kim’s former management agency, Gold Medalist, has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding her passing.
