Former After School member and broadcaster Lizzy has sparked concern among fans after expressing severe depression and an unstable mental state during a recent Instagram Live session.
On the 28th, Lizzy candidly shared her thoughts on her career in the entertainment industry and her personal feelings during the live broadcast. She described being a celebrity as a profession where "everything is exposed" and mentioned, "If someone wants to engage in public activities, I would advise against it, especially for female idols, as it seems particularly challenging."
Lizzy further stated, "I don't regret choosing this career, but I do blame myself a lot for my actions," adding, "My depression is so severe that I had to switch platforms after my account was suspended for discussing it." She tearfully expressed, "People say why struggle in such a good world, but it's too hard for me to live. What good is a beautiful world if I'm struggling?"
During the broadcast, Lizzy made comments hinting at negative choices, alarming viewers and prompting a flood of concerned and dissuasive messages in the comments. She appeared emotionally affected by questions about her appearance and plastic surgery, and she addressed past medical complications that necessitated further surgery. The live session ended abruptly after a person, presumed to be an acquaintance, joined the conversation.
Lizzy debuted in 2010 with the group After School and gained popularity as part of the sub-unit Orange Caramel. However, in May 2021, she was involved in a rear-end collision with a taxi in Seoul's Gangnam district, with a blood alcohol level of 0.08%, leading to a license suspension.
Following the DUI incident, Lizzy issued a public apology and took a hiatus from the entertainment industry for about four years. She officially resumed her career with a solo fan meeting in Tokyo this May. At the time, she reflected, "I was consumed by the thought that I might never perform on stage again, leading to a long period of self-reproach and isolation. I realized that even at what I thought was rock bottom, there could be deeper depths. It was a very difficult time, but I gained many lessons and insights necessary for living."
Despite conveying positive messages since her return, Lizzy's recent live broadcast has once again highlighted her precarious mental state, causing concern among her fans.
Reporter: Kim Se-ah, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr