No refund owed, Seoul court rules, as actor Kim Soo-hyun beats watch brand’s lawsuit

In a final ruling on September 14, a Seoul court dismissed actor Kim Soo-hyun's obligation to repay Swiss watch brand Mido about 577 million won (RM1.81 million) in advertising fees. The dispute arose from Mido's attempts to terminate its endorsement contract with Kim due to alleged dating of a minor. The Seoul Eastern District Court upheld Kim's agency, Gold Medalist's claim that he was not at fault for ending the contract, and thus owed no refund.

Mido terminated the contract in May 2025 and sued for the remaining fee, arguing the controversy had damaged Kim's commercial value. The court accepted the agency's argument, dismissing Mido's claim. Separately, the Seoul Seongdong police station decided not to forward Kim's case to prosecutors in July, stating there was insufficient evidence to support allegations of violating the Child Welfare Act or making a false accusation.