Kim Soo-hyun Asks YouTube to Shut Down 'Garosero Research Institute'

Actor Kim Soo-hyun's side has asked YouTube to shut down the channel "Garosero Research Institute" (Garosero Yeonguso). The move is the latest development in the ongoing legal dispute between the actor and the channel's operator.

According to a report by the South Korean daily JoongAng Ilbo on Oct. 20, Kim Soo-hyun's side submitted the request to YouTube on Oct. 6 The request alleges that the channel has repeatedly violated YouTube's policies on harassment and cyberbullying.

"The investigation confirmed allegations that 'Garosero Research Institute' defamed and threatened Kim Soo-hyun using false evidence, including voice recordings manipulated with artificial intelligence (AI)," claimed Ko Sang-rok, a lawyer at the law firm Phil who represents the actor.

"The channel must be shut down quickly to prevent further harm," he added.

The request to shut down the channel followed an earlier move on Oct. 3, when Kim Soo-hyun's side asked for the removal of 30 videos about him posted on the channel. The videos were reportedly divided into groups of five, with six defamation-related legal reports filed in total.

The channel's operator, Kim Se-ui, was indicted and taken into custody in June. He faces charges related to allegedly spreading false information about Kim Soo-hyun between March and December of last year, along with charges including threats and stalking. Kim Se-ui had earlier raised allegations about the timing of a past relationship between Kim Soo-hyun and the late actress Kim Sae-ron.

A separate criminal case involving Kim Soo-hyun has also reached a decision. In July, police decided not to refer the case to prosecutors over allegations that he violated the Child Welfare Act and made a false accusation.

His agency, GOLDMEDALIST, addressed the decision in an official statement on Oct. 14.

"The police decided not to refer the case to prosecutors, finding 'no charges' on the allegation that Kim Soo-hyun violated the Child Welfare Act," the agency said.

The agency again stressed that there is no objective evidence behind the claims against the actor. It also said it will file criminal complaints and civil lawsuits seeking damages in response to any further defamatory statements or attempts to interfere with his professional activities.

Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun has begun returning to public activities. In July, he took part in an ad campaign and photo shoot for a Philippine fashion brand. Earlier this month, he held a fan meeting in Manila, where he met local fans. The request to YouTube shows that even as he returns to public life, his legal fight over what was said about him online is far from over.