Scandals Involving Son Heung-min, Kim Seon-ho, Kim Hyun-joong and Heo Ung: Common Link Is “Abortion Surgeries”

In recent years, several high-profile South Korean celebrities have faced personal controversies that garnered significant public attention.

Notably, footballer Son Heung-min, actors Kim Seon-ho and Kim Hyun-joong, and basketball player Heo Ung have each been involved in incidents that sparked widespread discussion and debate.

Son Heung-min: Allegations and Legal Actions

In 2025, Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min became embroiled in a controversy when a woman, identified only as “Yang”, claimed she was pregnant with his child. Reports indicate that Son paid Yang ₩300 million (approximately $216,000) and had her sign a non-disclosure agreement.

Later, Yang’s new partner allegedly attempted to blackmail Son for an additional ₩70 million, leading Son to file a police complaint. Both individuals were arrested, and investigations revealed that Yang had undergone an abortion, though the paternity of the child remained unconfirmed.

Kim Seon-ho: Public Apology and Career Impact

In 2021, actor Kim Seon-ho faced allegations from an ex-girlfriend who claimed he had coerced her into having an abortion. Kim issued a public apology, resulting in the loss of endorsements and roles.

Subsequent reports suggested that the decision was mutual and that Kim had been supportive during the process. Eventually, some of his professional engagements resumed, and he returned to the public eye.

Kim Hyun-joong: Legal Battles and Vindication

Singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong was involved in a prolonged legal dispute with an ex-girlfriend who accused him of assault and coercing her into an abortion.

After years of litigation, South Korea’s Supreme Court ruled in Kim’s favor in 2020, ordering the ex-girlfriend to pay damages for defamation and false accusations.

Heo Ung: Allegations and Legal Proceedings

Basketball player Heo Woong faced allegations from an ex-girlfriend who claimed he had coerced her into having two abortions. Heo filed a lawsuit against her for blackmail and defamation. Investigations revealed that the woman had attempted to extort money from Heo and had made false claims. Authorities concluded there was insufficient evidence to support her allegations against Heo.

Conclusion

These cases underscore the complexities and challenges that public figures face when personal matters become public controversies. They highlight the importance of due process and the impact such allegations can have on the careers and lives of those involved.