KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — Security concerns have prompted the Kaohsiung City Police Department (高雄市府警察局) to prepare a significant law enforcement presence for the city's 2025 Sakura Festival (高雄櫻花季), officials announced Friday (March 21). The department plans to deploy approximately 50 officers at the event, citing the anticipated appearance of controversial South Korean celebrity Kim Soo-hyun (金秀賢) as the primary reason for the enhanced security measures. This strategic deployment reflects authorities' recognition of the potential for disruption surrounding the star's first major public appearance following recent controversy.
Kim Soo-hyun's reputation has suffered considerable damage following allegations of a past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae-ron (金賽綸) when she was a minor, accusations that have forced the once-beloved star to withdraw from public engagements. The scandal has fueled intense public speculation about whether the actor will fulfill his role as special guest at the festival scheduled for March 30. Entertainment analysts note that his appearance would mark a calculated attempt to rehabilitate his public image after months of avoiding the spotlight.
Representatives from Kwan Kwan Integrated Marketing (寬寬整合行銷), the festival's organizing body, issued a confirmation on Wednesday that all scheduled activities would continue without alteration despite the controversy. According to their statement, Kim is slated to deliver a 40-minute solo performance on the festival's main stage. The appearance represents Kim's first return to the public spotlight since the scandal first emerged, a decision that has already attracted considerable interest from media organizations both within Taiwan and internationally, as well as from his dedicated fan base.
In response to the heightened public interest, Kaohsiung law enforcement officials have developed a comprehensive security strategy that extends beyond the initial 50-officer deployment. The plan includes specialized units dedicated to managing the anticipated traffic congestion in areas surrounding the festival grounds. Police authorities have also established reserve forces that can be rapidly mobilized should any unexpected situations arise during the event, reflecting their commitment to maintaining public safety amid the potentially volatile atmosphere surrounding the controversial performer's appearance.
