"We would like to emphasise that he is not wearing his trousers. This is a photograph of him without his trousers," YouTube channel Hoverlab said in Korean.

The family of the late Kim Sae Ron has filed a defamation lawsuit against YouTuber Lee Jin Ho, accusing him for disseminating false information about the actress that put her in a negative light and which they believe played a part in her death.

Legal experts have weighed in on the potential consequences Kim Soo Hyun might face. According to current South Korean law, which was revised in May 2020, engaging in sexual acts with a minor under 16, even with consent, can constitute statutory rape or sexual misconduct.