SEOUL: Kim Soo-hyun is set to return to South Korea’s entertainment scene on Sept. 19 as a presenter at the 2026 The Fact Music Awards in Busan, his first official domestic appearance since the controversy surrounding late actress Kim Sae-ron.
The actor will attend the ceremony at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, marking his first official public appearance in South Korea in about 17 months.
Kim stepped away from public activities in March 2025 following the death of Sae-ron, whose family later alleged that she had been in a relationship with the actor while she was a minor. Kim has strongly denied the allegations.
Police later decided not to indict Kim over alleged violations of the Child Welfare Act, citing insufficient evidence, according to reports. The operator of a YouTube channel that raised allegations against the actor was arrested on charges including defamation.
Kim recently returned to social media after his lengthy absence and also appeared as a special guest at Indonesian broadcaster RCTI’s 37th-anniversary live special, signaling a gradual return to public activities.
His planned appearance in Busan has nevertheless triggered a strong backlash online, with some users questioning why he was invited to present an award.
Several social media posts criticized his return, while others expressed concern about his appearance at an event featuring younger performers. The reactions reflect the continued controversy surrounding the actor despite the police decision not to pursue an indictment over the child welfare allegations.
The 2026 The Fact Music Awards will feature performances by artists including RIIZE, RESCENE, xikers, IDID, ILLIT, ALD1, NOL FESTIVAL, ATEEZ, NMIXX, ALLDAY PROJECT, Lim Young-woong, YENA, CORTIS, CLOSE YOUR EYES, KiiiKiii, TREASURE and tripleS.
Kim’s appearance is expected to bring renewed attention to his career and his efforts to resume activities in South Korea after a prolonged absence.
