Kim Soo-hyun Asks YouTube to Shut Down HoverLab Over Alleged Defamatory Content
TeeKast · Oct 20, 2026 · 2:01
TeeKast · Oct 20, 2026 · 2:01
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South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has asked YouTube to shut down HoverLab, also known as the Garo Sero Research Institute, and remove 30 videos about him that his legal team says contain defamatory material.
According to reports published on October 20, 2026, Kim’s representatives argue that removing individual videos is not enough to prevent repeated attacks and further harm.
🔎 What Is the Dispute About?
The controversy began in 2025, when the channel raised allegations about Kim’s past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Kim acknowledged that they had dated but disputed claims that the relationship began while she was underage.
Kim’s legal team says investigations found that certain materials circulated in connection with the allegations—including chat conversations and voice recordings—were fabricated, altered or generated using artificial intelligence.
The channel’s operator, Kim Se-ui, has faced criminal proceedings related to the allegations. He has denied wrongdoing in earlier statements. The legal proceedings and the request to close the channel are separate matters.
⚖️ What Happens Next?
Kim’s representatives have also sought court intervention to remove the videos and prevent their further publication. A court hearing is scheduled for November 4, according to Newsis. YouTube’s final response to the shutdown request has not been confirmed in the reports cited here.
The case raises broader questions about online defamation, AI-generated evidence, platform accountability and the balance between protecting individuals from harm and safeguarding freedom of expression.
📰 Credible Sources
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