Every video she releases easily surpasses a million views. In just two months since launching her channel, the cumulative views are nearing 30 million. This is the story of Sunwoo Yong-yeo, who is experiencing a new golden era at the age of 81. Sunwoo Yong-yeo shares her luxurious lifestyle on her YouTube channel, which many adore for her sensible spending habits and positive mindset.
Sunwoo Yong-yeo launched her YouTube channel 'Soonpoong Sunwoo Yong-yeo' in April. As of now, just two months after its opening, the channel boasts approximately 290,000 subscribers and is approaching 30 million cumulative views.
The public is enthusiastically responding to the glamorous and vibrant daily life of 81-year-old Sunwoo Yong-yeo. She starts her day with 'self-care,' waking up in her Han River-view home and asking herself, "Did you sleep well, Yong-yeo? If I go out looking pretty, you'll be happy too." After getting dressed up, she drives her luxury Mercedes-Benz to enjoy a hotel breakfast costing around $60. When asked if it's expensive, Sunwoo Yong-yeo replies, "What's the point of saving money if not for my body? You can't take money with you when you go. Some people buy clothes worth $7,000 to $8,000, even $10,000. But you shouldn't eat just anything."
Sunwoo Yong-yeo, adorned with large gemstone earrings and rings, a gold necklace gifted by her children, and a luxury brand V's green bag, also goes shopping. She visits an outlet in the suburbs, showcasing her frugality by purchasing a shirt originally priced at around $670 for a 60% discounted price of about $270. Moreover, the shirt size is XS, highlighting her well-maintained slender figure. Sunwoo Yong-yeo even takes day trips abroad.
The MZ generation is reacting to Sunwoo Yong-yeo's luxurious and free lifestyle with comments like "My role model" and "I want to earn a lot and become a cool grandma like her." The reason for such reactions is not just her lively spending but the 'Love Myself' philosophy embedded in her consumption.
After battling a stroke, Sunwoo Yong-yeo realized the importance of self-love. She stated, "My husband passed away, and my children are all married. So, who should I live for? I must live for myself." On the variety show 'You Quiz on the Block,' she shared, "Life isn't long. Even if it seems like there's a lot left, it's not. Young people shouldn't think they have a lot of life left; they should start thinking 'I need to love myself now.' Older people shouldn't say 'there's not much time left'; instead, they should think about loving themselves more from now on." Starting YouTube at 81 was also about "wanting to try everything I want for myself."
"81 years old, but life begins now."
This is how Sunwoo Yong-yeo's YouTube channel introduction begins. Her lifestyle is not about reckless spending but about using the money she has diligently saved for herself. Sunwoo Yong-yeo, the 'Happy Girl' practicing 'Love Myself,' has become a wannabe senior.
By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr