Hong Ji-yoon, a guest on the recent episode of JTBC's variety show 'Knowing Bros', revealed her struggles with stage fright.
The episode, aired on the 28th, featured the top seven contestants from MBN's 'The King of Mask Singer 3', including Hong Ji-yoon, Lee Soo-yeon, Koo Soo-kyung, Kang Hye-yeon, Kim Tae-yeon, and Solji.
Known as 'Trot Barbie', Hong Ji-yoon finished second in 'Miss Trot 2', but emerged victorious in 'The King of Mask Singer 3'. She shared, "Many people around me said, 'We thought you would win first place, but you came in second. It was unfortunate.'"
She continued, "During 'Miss Trot 2', I participated without much preparation. Suddenly being active as a professional, I felt my own shortcomings. I needed time to hone my skills. After studying trot music extensively, I participated again and won this time."
When asked about changes after winning, Hong Ji-yoon expressed pride, saying, "After winning first place, the staff seemed happier than I was."
Hong Ji-yoon also shared the pain of being hurt by negative comments. She said, "For a while, it was hard to stand on stage. I debuted through an audition and suddenly received love. Many people liked me, but many also disliked me."
She recounted, "One day, while eating at a restaurant, someone behind me recognized me and started badmouthing me. I was so shocked that every time I went on stage, I wondered, 'What would that person think of me?'"
Having overcome her stage fright, Hong Ji-yoon now confidently states, "I know there are many people who love me." Seo Jang-hoon comforted her by sharing, "When I was a basketball player, there were people who cursed and threw coins at me after games."
Meanwhile, Kang Hye-yeon mentioned musical actress Cha Ji-yeon as a particularly energetic contestant. Seo Jang-hoon jokingly speculated, "Isn't Cha Ji-yeon second place? Did she not appear because she was upset about being second?" It was later clarified that Cha Ji-yeon couldn't attend due to musical rehearsals.
Kim Eun-jung, Ten Asia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr