Seven real-life K-drama scandals that sent shockwaves through the industry

The latest storm surrounds Kim Soo-hyun, whose alleged underage relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron has led to a swift fall from grace. In mere days, brand deals have crumbled, social media is ablaze, and once-loyal fans are questioning their allegiance. But he’s far from the first to face such reckoning. Over the years, Korean entertainment has seen explosive scandals – from high-profile breakups and legal battles to industry-shaking crimes – that have not only reshaped careers but also sparked larger conversations about power, accountability, and the relentless pressures placed on celebrities.

As the dust settles on yet another controversy, let’s take a retrospective look at seven of the most shocking scandals that have gripped the industry in recent years – each a moment that once dominated headlines, divided opinions, and left an indelible mark on Korean entertainment.

Seungri’s Burning Sun scandal

Who: Seungri of Big Bang, Jung Joon-young, Choi Jong-hoon, and others.

The scandal: The Burning Sun nightclub scandal erupted in 2019, exposing an underground network of criminal activities involving drug distribution, prostitution, police corruption, and sexual assault. Seungri, a co-owner of the club, was accused of facilitating prostitution for business investors, while Jung Joon-young was convicted for illegally filming and sharing explicit videos without consent. The case ignited widespread outrage, exposing the darker side of South Korea’s entertainment industry and prompting discussions about systemic abuse of power.

Kim Seon-ho’s abortion controversy

Who: Kim Seon-ho, best known for Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.

The scandal: In October 2021, Kim Seon-ho’s ex-girlfriend anonymously accused him of coercing her into terminating a pregnancy under false pretences. She alleged that he promised marriage but distanced himself afterwards. The revelation led to brands pulling endorsements and Kim withdrawing from various projects. However, subsequent reports suggested the situation had been misrepresented, with claims that the abortion had been a mutual decision. This led to a public reassessment of the scandal, with some brands reinstating their partnerships with him.

Lee Byung-hun’s blackmail case

Who: Lee Byung-hun, celebrated actor known for Iris and Hollywood films such as G.I. Joe.

The scandal: In 2014, Lee Byung-hun became the target of a blackmail scheme when two women, including a member of the girl group GLAM, attempted to extort money from him by threatening to release a video of him making inappropriate remarks. The case went to court, resulting in prison sentences for the blackmailers. Although Lee was the victim of extortion, the scandal still sparked controversy over his behaviour and personal conduct, particularly as he was married at the time.

Yoo Ah-in’s drug use investigations

Who: Yoo Ah-in, acclaimed actor known for Burning and Hellbound.

The scandal: In 2021, Yoo Ah-in was investigated for alleged illegal use of propofol. Subsequent tests revealed the presence of marijuana, cocaine, and ketamine in his system. The scandal led to his arrest and a one-year prison sentence in September 2024, causing significant disruptions to his ongoing projects and tarnishing his public image.

Lee Sun-kyun’s drug use allegations and suicide

Who: Lee Sun-kyun, known for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite.

The scandal: In October 2023, Lee was booked for investigation over suspected drug use, leading to his withdrawal from the upcoming drama No Way Out and the imposition of a travel ban during the investigation. Despite initial negative drug test results, further investigations were conducted, drawing significant media attention due to his public persona as a “family man.” On December 27, 2023, Lee was found dead in a parked car in central Seoul, with evidence suggesting suicide.

Kim Hyun-joong’s assault allegations

Who: Kim Hyun-joong, former SS501 member and star of Boys Over Flowers.

​The scandal: In August 2014, Kim Hyun-joong’s ex-girlfriend, identified as Ms. Choi, accused him of physical assault, alleging repeated beatings that resulted in injuries requiring medical attention, including broken ribs. Kim admitted to one incident of physical altercation but denied habitual abuse. He was subsequently fined 5 million won for the assault. 

The case escalated as Ms. Choi claimed she suffered a miscarriage due to the assault and filed a lawsuit seeking 1.6 billion won in damages. Kim counter-sued for defamation, asserting that her allegations were false. In 2015, Ms. Choi gave birth to a child, and a paternity test confirmed Kim as the father. ​

After years of legal battles, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Kim in November 2020, citing insufficient evidence to support Ms. Choi’s claims of miscarriage and coercion into abortion. The court ordered Ms. Choi to pay Kim 100 million won in damages for defamation.

Park Sung-hoon’s explicit image accident

Who: Park Sung-hoon, known for roles in The Glory and Squid Game season 2.

The scandal: Park Sung-hoon faced backlash in December 2024 after accidentally posting an explicit image on his Instagram Stories. The image, a parody from a Japanese adult video, quickly spread online before he deleted it. His agency initially claimed it was an accident while checking messages but later admitted he had received it via DM and mistakenly uploaded it while intending to forward it to his manager. The controversy led to his withdrawal from the upcoming drama The Tyrant’s Chef and widespread public criticism. While the incident sparked heated discussions, Park later issued a tearful public apology, expressing regret for the mistake.