Back in May 2022, Kim Saeron crashed into a transformer while driving under the influence at Hakdong Intersection in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
The accident caused a power outage across the commercial district, leading to massive compensation costs.
On top of that, she faced hefty penalties for breaching contracts with advertisers and drama productions.
With no money to cover the expenses, Kim Saeron borrowed from her then-agency, Gold Medalist, to settle the issue.
When her exclusive contract with the company ended in December that year, she reportedly promised to repay the debt.
Public sentiment toward her return was much colder than expected.
She took on part-time jobs at a café and acting academy just to get by, but it was not nearly enough to cover her debts.
As the repayment dragged on, Gold Medalist sent her a formal demand for the money, since the loan came from company funds and failing to pay it back could be considered a breach of trust.
The total amount owed was around 700 million won (approximately 490,000 dollars).
Kim Saeron asked for more time, explaining that she was in a tough financial situation and still intended to pay it back.
However, she was unable to keep that promise before passing away.
A friend, who had plans to meet her that day, discovered her body and reported it to the police.
The police later concluded that she had taken her own life.
(Credit= 'ron_sae' Instagram)
(SBS Star)