Daijiworld Media Network - Seoul
Seoul, Mar 21: Disney+ has officially postponed the release of Knockoff, the highly anticipated drama starring Kim Soo Hyun and Jo Bo Ah, following the growing controversy surrounding Kim Soo Hyun and the late Kim Sae Ron. Initially scheduled for an April release, the show’s premiere has now been delayed indefinitely due to strong public backlash.
The production team announced the decision, stating, “After careful consideration, we have decided to postpone the release of Knockoff.” Industry insiders suggest that Disney+ is wary of potential financial losses tied to the scandal, with calls for boycotts gaining momentum online.
A petition on Change.org demanding the show’s cancellation has also surfaced, accusing Disney+ of “sending a dangerous message” by releasing a project involving Kim Soo Hyun. The controversy stems from allegations that the actor dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor and later distanced himself after her DUI scandal in 2022, allegedly worsening her financial struggles.
Further fueling speculation, South Korean outlet KNN News reported that Kim Soo Hyun has been paying social media users to post positive content about him amid the backlash. Additionally, his brand deals and advertisements have taken a hit, with his Instagram following dwindling.
Meanwhile, shocking revelations about Kim Sae Ron’s alleged forced marriage and abortion surfaced through leaked audio recordings shared by YouTuber Lee Jin Ho. However, her family denied knowledge of any such marriage. Kim Sae Ron, 24, was found dead at her Seoul residence on February 16 coincidentally, Kim Soo Hyun’s birthday.
As controversy deepens, Knockoff’s future remains uncertain, with industry experts speculating whether the show will ever see the light of day.