South Korean authorities have arrested a YouTuber over allegations that he spread false claims about popular actor Kim Soo-hyun using manipulated and AI-generated evidence, the BBC reported.
According to police and prosecutors, Kim Se-ui, who operates the popular YouTube channel Hover Lab, falsely alleged that Kim Soo-hyun had dated actress Kim Sae-ron while she was underage, accusations the actor has consistently denied. Investigators allege that a voice recording published by Hover Lab, in which Kim Sae-ron appeared to discuss the relationship, was generated using artificial intelligence.
Authorities also claim screenshots of text messages from the actress’s phone were altered to suggest communication with Kim Soo-hyun. The Seoul Central District Court approved an arrest warrant for the YouTuber, citing concerns that he could destroy evidence or flee.
The controversy emerged months after actress Kim Sae-ron died by suicide at age 24.
In March 2025, Kim Soo-hyun acknowledged dating Kim Sae-ron, but said she was an adult at the time.
The actor later filed criminal complaints and lawsuits against the YouTuber and Kim Sae-ron’s family, alleging that the accusations were false.
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