South Korean model and TV star Kim Jong Suk, 29, died on June 4, sparking speculation over the circumstances of his death. Initial media reports suggested that a man in his 20s had jumped from a high-rise apartment in Hanam, Gyeonggi province, after an altercation with his girlfriend involving a broken glass bottle.
These reports led to rumors that Suk had taken his own life to avoid police involvement. His family confirmed his passing on June 6 at his funeral but did not disclose details.
Days later, his sister spoke out on social media, denouncing false claims that Suk had assaulted his girlfriend.
She explained that Suk had fallen into emotional and financial despair after being scammed by an acquaintance in an investment fraud, losing all his money and going into debt. She denied the reports of drunken violence, clarifying that Suk and his girlfriend had been drinking separately with friends, and he only visited her out of concern.
A soju bottle was broken by his friend in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, which led to the police being called. She emphasized that there was no assault or attempt to flee from the police. Suk had gained popularity as a model and appeared in the reality show “Skip Dating.” In the days leading up to his death, he had been active on social media, but his accounts were made private afterward. His sister announced plans to release messages and recordings to clear his name and stated that the family would take legal action against those spreading false information.