Kim Soo Hyun‘s first Korean public appearance in more than 500 days has triggered a heated debate among netizens.

The actor appeared as a presenter at the 2026 The Fact Music Awards (TMA) held today at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, marking his first major Korean event since March 2025. In the wake of his press conference last year, Kim has been the subject of major scrutiny and condemnation surrounding his alleged relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron while she was still a minor.

The event had fans divided from the moment the TMA organizing committee confirmed Kim Soo Hyun’s attendance in late August. Numerous K-Pop fans announced plans to boycott the ceremony, including those whose own idols were up for Daesang awards.

Despite the backlash, however, Kim Soo Hyun was met with notable applause the moment he walked out on stage at the 2026 The Fact Music Awards.

He went on to present an award to soloist Lim Young Woong, but did not interact with any idol groups during the ceremony.

Given how loudly fans pushed back against his invitation, the warm reception Kim Soo Hyun received left many K-Pop fans appalled.

Not everyone reacted the same way, with several of Kim Soo Hyun’s own longtime fans pushing back against the criticism in his defense. Earlier this month, the case in which Kim Sae Ron’s family and Garosero Research Institute CEO Kim Se Ui filed charges against Kim for violating the Child Welfare Act effectively came to an end.

A number of fans were also spotted at the venue with support banners and cheering materials.

The reaction comes just a week after Kim Soo Hyun’s noticeably changed appearance sparked a heated debate of its own.