Following reports of Im Si Wan unfollowing Kim Soo Hyun, actor Ahn Bo Hyun has also reportedly removed the once top-earning star from his Instagram following list. Kim Soo Hyun is currently facing a significant downturn in his career and public image due to a dating scandal involving the late actress Kim Sae Ron. The controversy has been further fueled by allegations that their relationship began when she was underage. Despite his consistent denials, the surfacing of alleged evidence has severely damaged his popularity. As a result, he has lost major brand endorsements, including Prada, and is reportedly causing financial strain on his agency. His standing within the industry is now said to be at a low point.
Social media purge signals industry disassociation
On April 4, South Korean celebrity gossip platform Instiz noted that Ahn Bo Hyun, known for his role in Military Prosecutor Doberman, had drastically altered his Instagram activity. Previously following only a few people, including Kim Soo Hyun, his account now shows zero following, though he maintains 5 million followers. This mirrors a similar move by Squid Game 2 actor Im Si Wan, who also wiped his Instagram following list clean. Both actions come amid growing pressure from fans, urging associates of Kim Soo Hyun to distance themselves from the scandal. Im Si Wan now only follows his agency, Plum A&C.
Jung Hae In faces fan scrutiny as more unfollows emerge
Snowdrop actor Jung Hae In is also facing backlash from fans, who are pressuring him to unfollow Kim Soo Hyun following a press conference where Soo Hyun, according to critics, appeared insincere in justifying his stance on the Kim Sae Ron case.
Ahn Bo Hyun’s connection to Kim Soo Hyun drew attention after they were photographed together alongside Byeon Woo Seok at the 2024 Asia Artist Awards, sparking rumors of their inclusion in the ‘88-liner friendship circle. However, none of the actors involved have issued official statements, and their social media actions remain speculative responses to the ongoing controversy.
In March, Business Proposal star Seol In Ah was the first to reportedly unfollow Kim Soo Hyun, his agency Gold Medalist, and all her colleagues — despite being signed to the same company. The Twinkling Watermelon actress had joined the agency in 2022, which is co-owned by Kim Soo Hyun and his cousin, Lee Sa Rang.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s popular online platform Weibo is abuzz with reports of other celebrities quietly distancing themselves from the Dream High star. Among those rumored to have unfollowed him are Cho Sei Ho, Lee Soo Hyuk, Dino, Ren Shi Wan, Cha Seung Won, and Hwang Kwang Hee.
The TOI Entertainment Desk is a dynamic and dedicated team of jou...
Read MoreThe TOI Entertainment Desk is a dynamic and dedicated team of journalists, working tirelessly to bring the pulse of the entertainment world straight to the readers of The Times of India. No red carpet goes unrolled, no stage goes dark - our team spans the globe, bringing you the latest scoops and insider insights from Bollywood to Hollywood, and every entertainment hotspot in between. We don't just report; we tell tales of stardom and stories untold. Whether it's the rise of a new sensation or the seasoned journey of an industry veteran, the TOI Entertainment Desk is your front-row seat to the fascinating narratives that shape the entertainment landscape. Beyond the breaking news, we present a celebration of culture. We explore the intersections of entertainment with society, politics, and everyday life.
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