Girls' Generation's YoonA opens up about her first extended break in 18 years of debut

AKP STAFF

On December 18, Girls' Generation's YoonA made a heartfelt confession about experiencing her first long hiatus since debuting 18 years ago. She shared her thoughts during an episode of Hyoyeon's Level Up on YouTube, titled Lunch Drinks with My Sister YoonA.

Hyoyeon, who hosted the segment, remarked, "YoonA, this is the first time you've taken such a long break since your debut. But even then, you seemed busy every month—fan meetings, attending the Cannes Film Festival, hosting the 'Blue Dragon Series Awards'. Did you really rest?"

In response, YoonA admitted, "It’s true that I’ve never taken such an extended break in our 18 years as Girls’ Generation. While it might seem like I rested, I was always doing something. People would ask, 'Did you really rest?' But by my standards, this was the most I’ve ever rested. I simply let myself relax for a while."

When asked if she had pursued anything new during her downtime, YoonA shared, "I’ve always wanted to work out more, so I tried running a few times after getting a recommendation from my trainer."

Hyoyeon also reflected on the challenges of learning to rest, saying, "People who are used to regular breaks know how to spend that time well. For us, even if we take a month off, not working makes us anxious. We feel like we need to learn something or do something. Resting itself takes practice." YoonA agreed, adding, "It truly does require practice."

Recalling YoonA’s fan meeting, Hyoyeon expressed concern, saying, "I felt like you were going through a tough time emotionally back then. You’re such a perfectionist, and I could sense how hard it was for you to let go. It’s natural to experience slumps while working, but it seemed like you were struggling internally."

YoonA acknowledged this, saying, "I’ve come to realize that the only way is to build inner strength. When I was younger, I’d confide in people about my struggles. But as time goes on, I’ve learned that the best solution is to develop the ability to endure on my own."

As the conversation wrapped up, YoonA hinted at her return, saying, "It’s time to get back to work—I’ve rested enough." Fans are eagerly awaiting her comeback and the next chapter of her illustrious career.