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Kim Sae-ron in a glamorous dress at the Mnet Asian Music Awards red carpet.© Visual China Group via Getty Ima

Kim Sae-ron, South Korean Netflix star, passes away at 24

South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron, known for Netflix’s Bloodhounds, has passed away at 24. Learn about her career, legacy, and the latest updates on her death.


FEBRUARY 16, 2025 3:15 PM EST

Kim Sae-ron, the South Korean actress best known for her role in the Netflix drama Bloodhounds, was found dead in her Seongsu-dong home in eastern Seoul on Sunday, February 16, according to police reports. A friend, who had planned to meet her, discovered her body and immediately alerted authorities. However, by the time emergency responders arrived, nothing could be done.

Kim Sae-ron, South Korean Netflix Star, Passes Away at 24© Imazins via Getty Images
Kim Sae-Ron attends the "Love Playlist - Season 4" Premiere on June 12, 2019 in Seoul, South Korea.

Ongoing investigation

The exact cause of Kim Sae-ron’s death remains unknown, and local police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding it. Officials have found no evidence of foul play or robbery. A statement from The Korean Times quoted police as saying, “We have not found any signs of a crime, but we are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.”

Kim Sae-ron in a glamorous dress at the Mnet Asian Music Awards red carpet.© Visual China Group via Getty Ima
Kim Sae-ron poses on the red carpet at the Mnet Asian Music Awards, showcasing her elegant style and radiant presence.

Fans and colleagues in South Korea's entertainment industry have expressed their grief on social media following her sudden passing. Tributes continue to pour in, as many struggle to process the tragic loss of such a young and talented actress.

A promising yet turbulent career

Born in 2000, Kim Sae-ron began acting at the age of nine, quickly making a name for herself with acclaimed roles in A Brand New Life (2009) and The Man From Nowhere (2010). She continued to build an impressive résumé, starring in A Girl at My Door, Secret Healer (2016), and the Netflix series Love Playlist (2017). However, it was Bloodhounds (2023) that solidified her status as a rising star.

Kim Sae-ron, South Korean Netflix Star, Dies at 24© WireImage
Actress Kim Sae-Ron poses for photographs at the 'J Koo' show as part of HERA Seoul Fashion Week S/S 2016 at DDP on October 18, 2015 in Seoul, South Korea.

Despite her success, Kim’s career faced a major setback in May 2022 when she was arrested for driving under the influence after crashing into a curb. She was fined nearly 13,000 euros for the violation and issued a public apology. The scandal led to professional repercussions, including a reduced role in Bloodhounds.

In April 2024, she attempted a career comeback through theater but withdrew from the project due to health concerns amid continued controversy.

Remembering Kim Sae-ron

Her untimely death has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a talented actress whose potential was cut short. Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages, remembering her as a bright star in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Her passing is a tragic reminder of the challenges faced by young actors in the spotlight. As investigations continue, her fans and loved ones are left grappling with the loss of someone who had so much more to give.

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