Kim’s promising acting career suffered a major setback following a drunk driving incident in May 2022. In that episode, she collided with a guardrail and a transformer, resulting in a fine of 20 million KRW. The incident not only marred her reputation but also halted the momentum of her flourishing career.
During her self-imposed period of reflection, Kim attempted to ease financial pressures by taking part-time jobs at local cafes. However, her high-profile status reportedly made it difficult for her to secure stable employment. This move further ignited controversy, as some online commenters alleged that her modest lifestyle was a calculated attempt to garner public sympathy to mitigate her legal punishment—a claim that starkly contradicted the glamorous image she had cultivated on social media.
The discovery of her body at a multi-family residence in Seoul has further underscored the disparity between her public persona and her actual living conditions, prompting widespread public reflection on the pressures faced by young celebrities.
In an interview with KBS, a psychiatrist warned of the dangers of a society that permits little tolerance for mistakes, emphasizing that the harsh and unforgiving social climate may have contributed to the tragic outcome.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death, while the case has ignited broader discussions about the impact of societal expectations and the relentless scrutiny faced by those in the public eye.
