According to a report on the 23rd, Park Na-rae visited a makgeolli brewing school in Seoul on the 21st. This marks her first public appearance since she announced her break from activities in December last year.
On that day, Park arrived at the school with a male companion, taking a taxi. She was seen wearing a mask, a shearling coat, and a bucket hat pulled down low. The man accompanying her is reportedly a friend who has been supporting her in the absence of a manager.
The institution Park visited offers education on traditional Korean alcoholic beverages like makgeolli and dongdongju, as well as other types such as baijiu and wine. It is reported that Park attends a weekly class on makgeolli brewing.
The accompanying male stated, "Park Na-rae is going through a very difficult emotional time," adding that she chose this field carefully as a way to overcome her current challenges. "She needed an environment where she could focus emotionally and found a place to study," he explained.
Park Na-rae is currently engaged in legal battles, having countersued former managers for attempted extortion and embezzlement. She has halted all broadcasting activities and stepped down from her programs. Previously, Park released a statement saying, "There are aspects that need to be calmly verified, so legal procedures are underway," and added, "I will not make any additional comments or explanations."
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr