Kim Sae Ron withdraws from play Dongchimi due to controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun: Report

Actress Kim Sae Ron's return to the acting scene, slated through the play Dongchimi, took an unexpected turn as she withdrew from the project citing a ‘bad mental state’. Following a hiatus stemming from personal reasons, including a past drunk-driving incident that received attention, Sae Ron's comeback was highly awaited by fans. The actress, who had been on a hiatus for some time due to her involvement in a drunk-driving accident causing damage to road structures and subsequently testing over the alcohol limit, had been gearing up to make her comeback through the theatrical production.However, her plans were disrupted when a photo of her with actor Kim Soo Hyun circulated online, stirring controversy. She herself posted the intimate selfie but then deleted it immediately. Recent reports on April 18, 2024, revealed that Sae Ron opted to withdraw from Dongchimi due to her struggling mental health. According to XSports News, she “knows it is still early to make a comeback. However, she made much effort as she really wanted to act on stage. She hopes that people can view it as her passion for the few fans who are still waiting for her acting”, as cited by Koreaboo. Kim Sae Ron reportedly began preparing for the play a month ago, personally attending auditions and displaying humility throughout the process. Following rigorous auditions, she secured the role. However, amid her preparations, the controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun took a toll on her mental well-being, leading to a decline in her health. Consequently, she made the decision to prioritize her health and withdrew from the project.