Former f(x) member Krystal has become a topic of discussion among Korean netizens.
Recently, one netizen brought to attention how Krystal had stepped away from her idol career at what is considered her prime. The netizen explained, "It's a bit regretful that she only stayed an idol until 22–23 years old, but she hit her peak visuals, filmed iconic CFs, and even earned recognition for f(x)'s musicality. In many ways, she reached her highest point and wrapped things up without any decline, which is cool."
The netizen continued, "While she was an idol, she dealt with a lot of hate comments and other struggles, and her health wasn’t great—there were multiple instances where she collapsed. But since transitioning into acting, seeing her occasionally appear on variety shows, she seems much brighter and happier."
They added, "It’s not like she’s out of work either—she’s still doing photo shoots and maintaining ad deals. She’s balancing acting projects, traveling well, and living her best life. It seems like it was the right choice for her, and she’s truly thriving."
Other netizens agreed that Krystal seemed to have stepped away from her idol career at her prime. They commented:
"I’m happy that Krystal seems happy, but it’s a shame because she was so good on stage—her talent feels wasted. I wish she could make occasional appearances at year-end performances, but that’s probably unlikely, right?"
"I totally agree with the original post. Unfortunately, she took a hiatus during her prime years for idol activities, but in hindsight, it seemed like it was a good time for her to clear her mind and focus on herself. Looking at Krystal now, she seems so much more relaxed and at ease compared to before."
"Still, her elegant, ice-princess vibe was truly one-of-a-kind among idols, so it’s hard not to feel a bit regretful. She looks happy now, which is great, but as a fan, I can’t help but miss f(x)'s Krystal so much."
"I still imagine how incredible 'GOT the Beat' could have been if f(x) had been included. If Luna and Krystal had joined, it would have been legendary."
"Wait... I thought Krystal was an idol until 25! I just realized she debuted at such a young age. Idols from that time always seemed so mature, but looking back now, they were practically kids. Mind-blowing."
"I totally agree with the original post. Sometimes I wonder if Krystal herself still has affection or lingering feelings about being a singer. I can’t help but imagine how things might’ve been if her music career had lasted longer."
"She was great at singing and dancing, and her stage presence was so natural—it's a shame there probably won’t be another album from her."
"But honestly, everything has its time. The bigger question is about what’s next for her. Her acting and overall career feel a bit in-between right now, and if she can’t move past that, she might stagnate. Isn’t she thinking about getting married? I remember she once mentioned wanting to get married early."
"Come on, she’s been living the good life from the start! People always said they were jealous of Krystal’s life back in the day."
"But the issue now is whether she’ll continue her career or end up just marrying a rich guy without any further accomplishments."
"She’s one of the celebrities who had such a dazzling prime that it feels like she peaked too soon."
"Honestly, she’s probably loving her life now. She said herself that she’s happy these days."
"When f(x) first debuted, Krystal’s look was so refreshing. Everyone was amazed when she appeared as Jessica’s younger sister—she looked like a real-life doll."
"Lately, I’ve noticed older idols are reuniting, so why hasn’t f(x) gotten back together? They’re my legendary ultimate pick group."
"It’s a shame about the hiatus, but I really love seeing her now. She seems brighter, doing what she loves. She was the only idol I liked during my school days, and that hasn’t changed. I’m hoping she’ll release a solo album one day."
"What kind of stage would bring her back? She’s so beautiful."
"Also, Krystal is admirable because she always gives her all in whatever she does. She never half-assed a performance and even her acting is at an award-winning level.
I’m happy that Krystal seems happy, but it’s such a waste because she was amazing on stage. I wish she could show up for year-end performances once in a while, but that’s probably a stretch."
"Totally agree with the original post. It’s really unfortunate that she took a break during the best years for idol activities, but it seems like it was a good time for her to regroup mentally and do what was best for herself. Looking at her now, she seems so much more comfortable and relaxed than she used to be."