Kim Sae-Ron’s Death Highlights Suicidal Risks in South Korea’s Entertainment Industry

The recent tragic death of actress Kim Sae-ron at the age of 24 in Seoul has once again exposed the pressing issues within South Korea’s entertainment industry. Known for fostering both immense success and relentless pressure, the industry has been criticized for its treatment of celebrities.

Discovered dead at her home following a drink-driving conviction in 2022, Kim Sae-ron faced severe backlash from both media and online users. Her case is not isolated; numerous other celebrities have lost their lives under similar circumstances. The suicide of K-pop stars Sulli and Goo Hara in 2019 serves as a grim testament to the devastating impact of cyberbullying and unforgiving media attention.

According to Korean culture critic Kim Hern-sik, criticized individuals are not only legally punished but also subjected to relentless online criticism. “It’s not enough that celebrities are punished by law; they become targets of relentless criticism,” he emphasized.

The influence of “super fans,” highly dedicated followers, and media outlets plays a crucial role in this cycle of negativity. “Super fans” often demand conformity and swift retribution from stars who fail to meet their standards. Media outlets, seeking increased engagement and traffic, can exacerbate the situation by amplifying unverified claims and fueling public animosity.

Kim Sae-ron’s father blamed a YouTuber for her emotional distress, suggesting that cyberbullying was a significant factor in her death. Some local media outlets have also been accused of contributing to the hostile environment.

The phenomenon extends beyond the entertainment industry. While politicians such as opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who also has a DUI conviction, have managed to bounce back, artistes find it exceptionally difficult to regain their reputation once it’s tarnished. NA Jong-ho, a psychiatry professor at Yale University, draws parallels to the South Korean Netflix series “Squid Game,” highlighting a societal tendency to abandon those who falter.

“Our society abandons those who stumble and moves on as if nothing happened,” Prof. Na wrote. “How many more lives must be lost before we stop inflicting this destructive, suffocating shame on people?”

In contrast to the Western entertainment industry, where controversies might add an edge to celebrities’ reputations rather than ending their careers, South Korea lacks a similar space for redemption. K-pop columnist Jeff Benjamin notes that while Western celebrities face consequences for their actions, they don’t necessarily face career-ending consequences.

“While no one cheers when a Hollywood celebrity is arrested for DUI or sent to jail for significant crimes, it’s not necessarily career-ending,” he says.

The South Korean entertainment industry has acknowledged concerns about performers’ mental well-being and implemented measures to address these issues. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains uncertain.

Real change, according to Benjamin, can only occur when there are no financial or attention incentives to perpetuate intrusive reporting. “It’s about creating a culture that allows individuals to make mistakes and learn from them,” he adds.

If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this article, you can find information and support on the BBC Actionline website here.

Additional reporting by Jake Kwon in Seoul.