SEOUL – South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found dead in her home in Seoul on Sunday, February 16, 2025. She was 24 years old. Authorities confirmed her death after a friend, who was supposed to meet her, discovered her unresponsive and called the police around 4:50 p.m. local time. Officials have ruled out foul play, though an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing is ongoing.
Kim, born on July 31, 2000, in Seoul, began her acting career at just nine years old. She gained international recognition for her role in the 2009 film A Brand New Life, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Her moving portrayal of a girl abandoned by her father established her as one of South Korea’s most promising young actresses.
In 2010, she further cemented her reputation with The Man from Nowhere, starring alongside Won Bin. She played a kidnapped child rescued by a former special agent, a role that won her the Best New Actress award at the 8th Korean Film Awards. Her performance, filled with depth and emotional intensity, set her apart from her peers.
Kim’s career flourished throughout her teenage years, with standout performances in films like A Girl at My Door (2014), where she portrayed a troubled teenager opposite Bae Doona. On television, she took on diverse roles in series such as Can You Hear My Heart (2011), The Queen’s Classroom (2013), and Hi! School: Love On (2014), proving her versatility and earning a devoted fanbase.
However, her career took a downturn in May 2022 after a drunk driving incident in Seoul’s Gangnam district. She crashed her vehicle into an electrical transformer box, causing a power outage in the area. Public backlash followed, and she was fined 20 million won (approximately $13,850). The controversy led her to withdraw from the spotlight, losing several acting opportunities, including a role in the drama Trolley.
She attempted a comeback in 2023 through the Netflix series Bloodhounds, but ongoing health struggles forced her to step back once again.
Kim’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a gifted actress whose potential was cut short. Tributes continue to pour in, honoring her contributions to film and television. While her career faced challenges, Kim Sae-ron’s legacy remains one of talent, resilience, and artistic brilliance.