EXID member Hani recently appeared on the YouTube channel 'Sebasi Talk,' sharing her thoughts and experiences on embracing one's true self. The lecture, titled 'Let's all be as attractive as we want,' was released on January 16 KST.
In the video, Hani bravely disclosed her struggles with self-perception, saying, "For a long time, I believed that I wasn't an attractive person. Due to my celebrity career, I was constantly searching for my own charm."
She continued, "In the past, my sole focus was on success as 'Hani.' It was my life's ultimate goal. I craved attention and recognition, believing that achieving these would bring me unconditional happiness."
Hani also reminisced about the year 2014 when a fan-made video sparked a "reversal syndrome" in her career. She recounted, "Following this reversal, I ranked first on music shows and landed numerous commercial gigs. However, one day, while taking a shower, I suddenly realized I was unhappy. I had this strange feeling that future happiness was elusive. It was the first time I experienced such emotions, and I was genuinely scared. I felt like I didn't even know myself."
During this period, Hani felt immense pressure to maintain a facade of perfection as an idol. She revealed, "People always expected me to be flawless, and I felt the need to excel in everything I did. It was as if people saw me merely as a product."
She added, "It's often said that being an idol is a time-limited career, with a short professional life span. Many of us experience fear because of this. Starting my career at such a young age, I ran like a racehorse for an extended period, only looking forward. Sometimes, I lost myself as I constantly compared myself to those around me."
Upon the expiration of her exclusive contract, Hani embarked on an unplanned backpacking journey without a clear vision for her future. She explained, "Nothing was predetermined. I felt like I had lost something vital, and I believed that finding it was my utmost priority."
After her travels, Hani returned to Korea and joined a group where members discussed their concerns while maintaining anonymity regarding their age and occupation through online ads. She found comfort in connecting with others who shared similar anxieties. "Strangely, I discovered consolation in their stories," she said.
Hani concluded by saying, "With this newfound perspective, I no longer felt inadequate. I am now much happier than before."
The audience reacted positively to Hani's heartfelt revelations, and her boyfriend, psychiatrist, and broadcaster Yang Jae Woong, who was among the attendees, also garnered attention.
I'm happy that she was able to find peace with herself. Being a fan of her all these years, she's always been an inspirational woman with a charming personality who makes people around her smile. The feeling of being a product and having to maintain a certain image under constant public scrutiny can be overwhelming. I'm happy she found someone who can make her smile from her heart and support her so she won't have to carry that burden alone. She looks happier these days with him by her side 🩷