Embattled South Korean superstar Kim Soo Hyun has personally addressed a growing scandal about the nature of his relationship with late actress Kim Sae-ron for the first time, in a closely watched saga that has roiled the country’s entertainment industry.

At a surprise press conference, Kim Soo-hyun denied claims he groomed Kim Sae-ron, who died by suicide in February.

SEOUL – Following actor Kim Soo-hyun’s tearful press conference on M arch 31 addressing his relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron, a petition submitted to the National Assembly to amend statutory rape laws gathered more than 30,000 signatures in less than two days.