Overview
- Seoul Seongdong Police decided in May 2026 not to refer Kim Soo‑hyun for prosecution, saying investigators found insufficient evidence to support the Child Welfare Act charge.
- Police found key audio and chat files had been edited or generated using AI, and prosecutors have indicted Kim Se‑ui, the operator of the Garosero YouTube channel, on defamation and related charges.
- Kim Soo‑hyun released a short promotional video for Philippine brand Bench on August 2, 2026, his first official public appearance after a roughly 16‑month hiatus.
- Several advertisers have filed civil compensation claims reportedly totaling about 10 billion won over interrupted promotions, and Disney+ has kept the actor’s series 'Knock‑Off' on hold.
- What to watch next: the upcoming criminal trial of the channel operator, ongoing civil claims by companies, and whether further endorsements or project releases follow as public reaction and industry reviews evolve.