Kim Sae-Ron’s Death Highlights South Korea’s “Cancel Culture” Crisis

Kim Sae-Ron’s death has reignited a national debate on South Korea’s “cancel culture.” Yale’s Na Jong-Ho criticized society’s harsh treatment of celebrities, calling it destructive and inhumane.

Yale Professor Slams Society’s Ruthless Treatment of Celebrities

The tragic death of actress Kim Sae-Ron has ignited a nationwide conversation about South Korea’s intense “cancel culture.” The 24-year-old, who was found dead in her apartment on February 16, had been struggling to revive her career after a DUI case in 2022 derailed her professional life.

Tulisan dari Prof. Na Jong Ho: "Masyarakat Squid Game".

Rest in peace 🥀 pic.twitter.com/0pD8MtD26H

— 노웨이아웃 (@uselessaramm) February 18, 2025

Kim’s passing has prompted tributes from fans and widespread criticism of the harshness with which she was treated following her public mistake. Among those speaking out is Yale University psychiatry professor Na Jong-Ho, who publicly condemned South Korean society’s unforgiving stance on celebrities who fall from grace.

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In a heartfelt post shared on February 17, Na, known for his appearance on the variety show You Quiz on the Block in 2023, called the situation “a real-life Squid Game,” referencing the popular series known for its brutal competition. He argued that while drunk driving is a serious offense, society’s tendency to completely “cancel” individuals without offering a chance for redemption is deeply harmful.

He recalled how Kim had to work part-time due to financial strain, and that the café where she worked had been bombarded with malicious comments. “How many more lives must be lost before we stop imposing relentless, destructive shame?” he questioned.

Authorities have indicated that Kim Sae-Ron’s death is suspected to be a suicide, further underscoring the dire consequences of the societal pressures she faced.