Hit celebrities -- actor Kim Soo-hyun and chef Baek Jong-won -- are having a rough time over their family issues disclosed on Wednesday.

(OSEN)

Kim Soo-hyun, who rose to stardom with diverse hit soaps from “My Love from the Star” to “The Producers,” confirmed that Kim Joo-na, who sang the soundtrack of a SBS soap “What Do I Do Without You” is his stepsister.

After his agency said, “It is true that Kim Joo-na is his stepsister but she seems to have no contact with him.” many speculative articles followed about why he hid the truth or whether Joo-na tried to take advantage of her stepbrother’s popularity, creating further controversies.

On the same day, a local media reported that star chef Baek Jong-won’s father was sued by a caddie, who said he sexually harassed her. Although his father, who once served as an education superintendent, denied the accusation, some media reported whether his son should also be responsible for the issue by dropping out of his programs. He has been gaining huge popularity in Korea’s entertainment scene with his warm personality and cooking skills.

Last year, actress Han Hyo-joo was also embroiled in a controversy as her younger brother was allegedly involved in harsh treatment in the army. Some media reported the failure of her movie “C’est Si Bon” was due to her family issue.

Industry watchers said that multiple speculative articles of the celebrities involved draw even more curiosity, sparking concerns about human rights issues.

“Even though the stars did nothing wrong, the disclosure of their family issues can deal a serious blow on their fame,” said an entertainment chief declining to be identified.

(khnews@heraldcorp.com)