"Is an Adult-Minor Relationship a Crime?" Cultural Critic Sparks Controversy by Defending Kim Soo-hyun Amid Minor Dating Allegations

Cultural critic Kim Gap-su is under fire for remarks perceived as defending actor Kim Soo-hyun amid allegations of a past relationship with a minor.

On March 17, Kim appeared on the YouTube channel Maebul Show during the segment Midday Maebul Controversy, where he discussed the ongoing scandal surrounding Kim Soo-hyun and the late Kim Sae-ron. Kim Sae-ron’s family has claimed that she dated Kim Soo-hyun for six years, starting when she was 15, while Kim Soo-hyun has stated that they only dated for one year after she became an adult.

During the broadcast, Kim Gap-su remarked,

"I was never particularly interested in Kim Soo-hyun, but the way this news is being treated makes it seem like dating a minor is some kind of massive crime. There can be significant age gaps in relationships, and sometimes the woman is older than the man. There are various types of relationships, so I don’t understand why this is suddenly being framed as a 'minor issue.'"

He continued,

"Perhaps the two started dating at a young age. Since Kim Sae-ron was a child actress, she was likely socialized earlier than most. She was 16 at the time, and the man was 27. Personally, I’ve never considered dating a younger woman, but isn't this a matter of personal preference?"

Host Choi Wook, sensing the growing tension, responded,

"That seems like an inappropriate choice of words."

However, Kim Gap-su stood firm, countering,

"This is a matter of individual characteristics. As times change, so do social norms and ethical standards, but people still cling to outdated notions. Is it fair to condemn an adult man simply for dating a minor?"

Backlash and Online Outrage

Following the broadcast, Kim Gap-su’s comments ignited fierce criticism, with many accusing him of normalizing or excusing relationships between adults and minors. Amid the escalating controversy, Maebul Show deleted the segment, but clips had already spread online.

Netizens reacted strongly:

"A formal apology and Kim Gap-su’s removal from the show are necessary."

"Defending relationships with minors is unacceptable."

"Underage dating is a legal issue, not a 'personal preference'—he’s downplaying a serious matter."

Kim Gap-su’s History of Controversial Statements

This is not the first time Kim Gap-su has been embroiled in controversy.

In 2023, he criticized actress Park Eun-bin’s acceptance speech at the Baeksang Arts Awards, drawing public backlash.

In 2022, he made remarks that appeared to downplay school bullying allegations against actor Nam Joo-hyuk, sparking further criticism.