The debut that shook the internet also marked the end of a career, as singer Ori instantly vanished from the spotlight. Even now, 15 years later, curiosity about her whereabouts remains high. 

Let's go back to January 2, 2009, when Ori took her debut stage on KBS' 'Music Bank' to perform her album's title track, "It's Snowing." Despite her charming demeanor, her pitch and rhythm faltered, turning what was meant to be a debut into a memorable moment for all the wrong reasons. After that, she disappeared for 15 years.

The debut performance:

Ori's performance was much talked about in online communities, but her life during this time remained a mystery. What had she been doing? In an interview with Sports Chosun, Ori revealed, "After retiring from singing, I took on various jobs, ranging from working at an IT company to even working at an animal hospital."

She recounted moments when random passersby recognized her on the street, saying, "Hey, it's Ori!" Every time, she was busy trying to conceal herself. Reflecting on that period, she admitted, "Looking back, I realize it wasn't just depression. My self-esteem had taken a serious blow."

Addressing the rumors that circulated during her absence, such as claims that her father was a music show executive or that her family's wealth facilitated her appearances, Ori clarified, "I'm not from a wealthy family. My father passed away when I was 5, and we faced many hardships afterward. Those rumors were upsetting."

Regarding her interaction with the music show's producer after her infamous performance, she recalled, "The atmosphere was tense when the producer called me aside. It was probably to scold me but perhaps my upbeat demeanor didn't sit well, as he simply told me to leave."

She also praised IU, with whom she shared the title of 'most anticipated rookie of 2009.' "We shared the same waiting room. Watching IU rehearse, I couldn't help but admire her talent, thinking, 'Wow, she sings so well'," Ori reminisced.

After her performance, Ori's mother and the agency's CEO had a serious conversation. "They said they were canceling all my scheduled appearances," she said. "So, my debut was also my retirement."

Lastly, Ori offered a heartfelt apology. "Criticism about my skills is understandable. I deeply regret my shortcomings," she expressed. In closing, she borrowed a line from her debut and retirement song, "It's Snowing," as a farewell gesture. She sang, "Please forgive me once~ Please see me with kind eyes~ Please forgive me for my past mistake and watch me work diligently with kind eyes."