Brace yourself for another disappointment, Hallyu wave enthusiasts! Disney+ has officially delayed the release date of “Knock Off” K-drama due to the Kim Soo Hyun controversy. Just when we’re all getting ready for its highly-anticipated broadcast next month, the growing controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun has resulted in a massive roadblock for the K-drama.
Not only that, but as the controversy escalated even more, industry experts also predicted a possible lawsuit from Disney+ against Kim Soo Hyun. And if that happens, they believe Kim Soo Hyun might face potential bankruptcy. How exactly is that possible? Join us in a full report below.
“Knock Off” K-drama Release Date Undecided
The growing controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun and late actress Kim Sae Ron has caused an undecided release date for “Knock Off” K-drama.
On March 12, 2025, the Walt Disney Company behind the operational management of Disney+ announced that the release date of the “Knock Off” drama starring Kim Soo Hyun had yet to be decided. Since then, there has been no additional statement to follow up on this decision.
The controversy surrounding Kim Soo Hyun has been escalating even more massively. More photos and videos emerged as alleged evidence accusing Kim Soo Hyun of dating the underage Kim Sae Ron and neglecting her when she needed help.
But Disney+ remains silent, causing industry insiders to release speculations on what will soon happen to the K-drama.
Disney+ No Longer Trusts Kim Soo Hyun: “Knock Off” Release Date Delayed
Before the Kim Soo Hyun controversy erupted, Disney+’s “Knock Off” K-drama had reportedly completed filming the first season. The company had originally planned the K-drama to premiere during the first half of 2025 while filming is on the way for the second season. The production team has even scheduled the presentation for next month. So, everything’s all set and ready to launch.
Then, the controversy surrounding “Knock Off” main actor Kim Soo Hyun started on March 10.
At the time, Disney+ remained calm and put their trust in the actor. That is why they originally stated that the release date of “Knock Off” would go as planned, even amid the Kim Soo Hyun controversy.
However, Garosero then escalated the controversy. The YouTube channel posted numerous alleged evidence of Kim Soo Hyun underage dating scandal with Kim Sae Ron. This then resulted in Kim Soo Hyun’s agency reversing its official statement and eventually admitting the dating relationship.
To make everything worse, Kim Sae Ron’s family revealed some demands and condemning details proving the underage relationship. Additionally, a fan of the late actress uncovered an old photo from 2017 showing Kim So Hyun and Kim Sae Ron together in front of her home, further fueling suspicions that Kim Soo Hyun’s earlier denial was false.
That is why Disney+ can no longer trust Kim Soo Hyun.
Blockbuster K-drama that Relies on Kim Soo Hyun–Now Backfired!
While the underage part remains unconfirmed, the public’s sentiments have now turned against the actor entirely. All the negative sentiments against Kim Soo Hyun then resulted in massive jeopardy to the release date of “Knock Off” K-drama.
Previously, “Knock Off” K-drama reported an approximately 600 billion KRW (around 450 million USD) investment with a star-studded cast and plans for a global launch.
During the planning stage, the production team aimed to recover their investment by casting Kim Soo Hyun, who had gained immense international popularity through the tvN drama “Queen of Tears.”
However, once the controversy massively escalated, both domestic and international fandoms reported turning against him. The public then flooded Disney Korea and Disney+ Korea’s official accounts with criticisms. They demanded the company remove Kim Soo Hyun from the projects. Comments vary from “Is this really a company that produces children’s content?” to “I will never let my kids watch Disney+ again. Make the right choice.”
Due to this negative sentiment, Disney+, which originally stood by the actor, decided to change its stance. That is why the release date of “Knock Off” K-drama starring Kim Soo Hyun remains undecided for now.
“The release schedule has not been finalized.”
Disney Korea.
The trust they put in Kim Soo Hyun and his global popularity has backfired. And sponsors are reportedly in distress.
Possible Multiple Lawsuits Against Kim Soo Hyun
Since the Kim Soo Hyun controversy has caused damage not only to “Knock Off” K-drama production but also to its sponsors and investors, industry experts predicted a possible lawsuit against Kim Soo Hyun for its indefinite postponement of the release date.
Similar to what happened to “Bloodhounds” after Kim Sae Ron’s DUI incident, the whole “Knock Off” K-drama production is in jeopardy simply because of Kim Soo Hyun. Not to mention, this is a project that has relied entirely on his massive popularity and status as Korea’s most expensive actor. Hence, when the main pillar fails to hold, the whole building starts crumbling down.
Now, if the controversy is irreversible, industry experts believe that Disney+ may then pursue a high-stakes lawsuit against Kim Soo Hyun over contract violations.
Kim Soo Hyun May Face Bankruptcy If Disney+ Files A Lawsuit
Eventually, the worst possible speculation if Disney+ truly files a lawsuit is that Kim Soo Hyun may face potential bankruptcy.
According to industry experts, a “morality clause” exists in all entertainment contracts, including advertisements, dramas, and films. This clause states that if a celebrity causes public controversy, they must compensate for damages. Why? Because an actor’s image is directly linked to the value of a production or brand.
Now, the total production cost of Knock-Off is estimated at 600 billion KRW (approximately 450 million USD). Lead actors typically receive 10–20% in fees from this budget.
As Korea’s highest-paid actor, Kim Soo-hyun’s per-episode rate reportedly ranges between 500 million to 800 million KRW (approximately 375,000 to 600,000 USD). This means that for an 8-episode series, his total compensation could exceed 5 billion KRW (approximately 3.75 million to 6 million USD).
Just like what happened to Kim Sae Ron’s “Bloodhounds” penalty, Kim Soo Hyun may face enormous financial issues if Disney+ decides to file a lawsuit.
Not only must he return his acting fees, but Kim Soo Hyun will also have to cover additional costs related to “Knock Off” release date delays or even its possible cancellation.
In the entertainment industry, contract violations often result in compensation claims ranging from 20–30% of the production budget. Since Knock-Off had a 600 billion KRW budget, Disney+ could demand significant damages.
On top of everything, Kim Soo Hyun is also a brand ambassador for over 15 companies. All of these are prominent brands, including Shinhan Bank, Homeplus, Prada, Jo Malone, and Cuckoo.
If Disney+ moves forward with legal action, other brands may follow, possibly leading to further financial consequences.
Fate of “Knock Off” Lies on Kim Soo Hyun
Finally, the whole fate of “Knock Off” K-drama, its cast, and the release date now rely on Kim Soo Hyun. Now that the agency has released a 12-page lengthy statement, the public’s sentiments remain to be seen.
If Kim Soo Hyun can eventually prove his innocence, “Knock Off” K-drama will proceed with its release date. But if his scandal is proven true, then everything will eventually falter.
What do you think about this situation? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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