Death of South Korean actor at 24 sparks discussion about social media and internet culture

South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron’s death at 24 has sparked widespread grief and discussions about the pressures celebrities face in South Korea’s intense social media and entertainment culture. Kim, once a rising star known for her acclaimed role in The Man from Nowhere, was found dead at her Seoul home, with police ruling out foul play. Her career had faltered following a 2022 drunk driving incident, after which she faced relentless online criticism and media scrutiny.

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Many have pointed to South Korea’s harsh celebrity culture, where public figures, particularly women, face severe backlash for personal mistakes. Editorials have drawn parallels to the tragic deaths of other stars like Seol-li, Goo Hara, and Parasite actor Lee Sun-kyun, calling for change. Critics argue that both social media and news outlets contribute to this toxicity by sensationalizing controversies for engagement.

Advocacy groups and media watchdogs have urged for a reevaluation of how celebrities are treated in the public eye, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate approach. Kim’s passing has reignited conversations about mental health, cyberbullying, and the responsibilities of both the media and audiences in shaping celebrity culture.

Source: AP News
Image Source: 디스패치, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons