Overview

• Attorney Ko Sang-rok said the letters document exclusive affection for a then-girlfriend and were released to counter claims of a romantic relationship with Kim Sae-ron while she was underage.
• He argued that the phrase “I miss you” in a letter to Sae-ron was a routine expression by a soldier to an acquaintance and not an indication of romance, noting no promises or affectionate language toward her.
• The defense said Sae-ron visited a residence registered to Kim only once during his military leave and that Kim’s brother, who lived there, was present, characterizing the meeting as non-romantic.
• Kim’s side asserted that photos circulated by GaroSero Institute were taken after Sae-ron became a legal adult and claimed leaked KakaoTalk messages were third-party fabrications.
• The legal team confirmed a 12 billion won damages suit against Sae-ron’s bereaved family and GaroSero, following public allegations that surfaced after her death and Kim’s statement that any dating occurred only after she reached adulthood.