IU, a multi-talented K-pop idol and actress, frequently garners attention not only for her impressive skills but also for her close relationships with her peers. Among her closest friends in the industry were Kim Soo Hyun and the late actress Sulli. Their bond has come under scrutiny following the ongoing controversy surrounding the film Real, where IU made a brief cameo alongside Kim Soo Hyun and Sulli in leading roles. The controversy has resurfaced, with new allegations directed at IU, as detailed in reports by South Korean outlet Sports Chosun.
Sulli’s older brother has made serious claims against Kim Soo Hyun, accusing him of pressuring the late actress to perform explicit scenes in Real, even when a body double was available. Following the film’s release, Sulli faced intense public criticism, which severely impacted her mental health. According to Sulli’s brother, IU is implicated in this tragic sequence of events for allegedly introducing Sulli to a psychiatrist who had a problematic reputation. The psychiatrist was reportedly the same one consulted by other deceased celebrities, including Goo Hara and Kim Sae Ron.
Sulli’s brother further accused IU of sharing this psychiatrist’s contact details with Sulli and two other women, leading to questions about her role in the mental health struggles of her friends. He also suggested that IU, being close to both Sulli and Kim Soo Hyun, may have had ulterior motives in connecting Sulli with this medical professional. Additionally, he raised concerns about IU’s decision to pass on the lead role in Real to Sulli, after reportedly rejecting the script herself. The accusation that IU was aware of the film’s explicit content and still chose to pass the script on to Sulli has led some to question her intentions.
Despite these serious allegations, many fans have come to IU’s defense, asserting that she would never have knowingly encouraged Sulli to take on such a challenging and explicit role. They argue that IU would not have asked her friend to take on the role if she had known the extent of its controversial content. The situation remains complex, with differing opinions and emotions surrounding the tragic circumstances involving these beloved celebrities.
