South Korean actor's ex-girlfriend sues him for $1.48 million

SEOUL, May 4 (UPI) -- South Korean entertainer Kim Hyun-joong is being sued for $1.48 million for bringing "psychological harm" to his former girlfriend.

The plaintiff, whose surname is Choe, brought the case to Kim in April, reported Yonhap. According to Kim's lawyer Lee Jae-man on Monday, Choe cited "psychological harm," brought about by an unexpected pregnancy and ensuing disputes, as the reasons for filing the claim at Seoul Central District Court.

Kim's attorney said Kim is ready to go to court against the plaintiff and that there is no room for mediation, reported South Korean newspaper Maeil Business.

Kim is a popular 28-year-old South Korean actor known for his role in the 2009 South Korean television Drama "Boys Over Flowers." He became a household name in Asia after the show was a hit in Japan, Thailand and China.

According to North Korean defectors the show is secretly watched in the reclusive country.

Last August when Kim and Choe were still in a relationship, Choe sued Kim for physical assault. She withdrew charges after Kim publicly apologized, but the Seoul prosecutor's office charged Kim $4,620 for a mutual physical fight.

Maeil Business reported Choe had also targeted her online antagonists for spreading malicious rumors -- including stories claiming the two were visiting an obstetrician.

Online commenters began to post rumors as early as February of Choe's pregnancy, reported Yonhap.