On September 7, a former middle school acquaintance stepped forward to defend actress Kim Hieora against recent allegations of school bullying.

The classmate shared a personal story of how Kim Hieora had intervened to stop their own bullying experience during middle school, describing a kind and supportive friendship that developed as a result.

According to the classmate, Kim Hieora's intervention marked a turning point in their school life, with the bullying coming to an end, and they grew closer as friends. The classmate emphasized that Kim Hieora was not someone who engaged in bullying or negative behavior during their time in school.

As evidence of their connection, the classmate provided an Instagram conversation in which Kim Hieora warmly responded to their messages. 

Meanwhile, the initial allegations of school bullying against Kim Hieora had emerged earlier in the week through a 'Dispatch' report on September 6. Following the reports, there have been numerous criticisms against Kim Hieora.

However, this latest revelation from the actress' former classmate is turning the tide as many K-netizens are changing their views.

K-netizens commented, "As expected, people reap what they sow. Those who engaged in bullying and tormented their classmates will eventually face school violence allegations and downfall, while those who, like Kim Hieora, were considerate and supportive friends will have others come to their defense even if bullying allegations arise. It must have been tough for her, and I hope this controversy is resolved quickly," "I'm disappointed with Dispatch," "I think there's always that one kid. They hang out with the 'fun' crowd but don't engage in bad behavior. Some of them are even good at studying," "I guess 2023 Korea is just filled with witch hunts," "Just because she hung out with the 'fun' crowd doesn't make her bad. There are tons of kids with poor character who do not hang out with the fun crowd," "If she has friends who would stand up for her like this, it means she was a good kid," and "School violence is wrong. But then what difference is witch-hunting someone without solid evidence?"