Freesia, Kang Ye-won, ultimately go their separate ways

The agency co-represented by YouTuber Freesia (Song Ji-ah) and actress Kang Ye-won has decided to break up. Freesia decided to bid a beautiful farewell to her agency, Hyowon CNC, with whom she had had ups and downs while going through the 'counterfeit controversy', while supporting each other's development.

On the 27th, Hyowon CNC said, “After discussing future activities with Song Ji-ah, we have decided to end our domestic management duties,” and added, “We support Song Ji-ah, who has talent and passion.” Hyowon CNC is a media commerce company founded by actress Kang Ye-won and CEO Kim Hyo-jin, and includes YouTubers and influencers.

Kang Ye-won was the first to discover Freesia's potential and reached out. On the JTBC entertainment show 'Knowing Bros' that aired last year, Freesia revealed the reason why they formed a relationship, saying, "When I first contacted her, she said it was actress Kang Ye-won, so I thought it was a prank call. But when I met her, it turned out to be the real Kang Ye-won." Kang Ye-won recalled their first meeting, saying, "After the meeting was over, I asked where they were going, and they said they were going to a pool party. It was so cute."

Kang Ye-won's insight was clear. Among the contestants in the Netflix dating reality show 'Solo Hell 1', which was released in December 2021, Freesia received overwhelming public attention. Although it aired until season 2, no contestant attracted as much attention as Freesia. With her confident and confident attitude, honest speaking style, lively yet haughty personality, and sophisticated style, Freesia rose to stardom right away. Just 10 days after the release of ‘Solo Hell’, the number of YouTube subscribers increased by 200,000. Kang Ye-won once expressed her affection for Freesia, calling her “my younger sister.”

Last January, when its popularity was soaring, Freesia was criticized for the 'counterfeit controversy' for using counterfeit and counterfeit luxury brand products. Freesia apologized and took time to reflect. At the time, there were rumors of a discord between Freesia and Kang Ye-won. However, the misunderstanding towards them was soon resolved. It was confirmed that the two continued to have a close relationship even after the controversy. Freesia often visited Kang Ye-won's house, and Kang Ye-won also consoled him and acted as a strong older sister. During this period, the two did volunteer work together, and Freesia also donated money to support emergency relief in areas affected by forest fires.

Freesia returned after 5 months of hiatus. He still wanted to communicate with fans with a confident and bright appearance. Freesia is constantly communicating with fans by sharing videos such as daily vlogs, mukbangs, and beauty tips. Currently, the YouTube channel operated by Freesia has 2.09 million subscribers.

Both sides became stronger after going through a crisis together. This is why support is pouring in even though Kang Ye-won of Freesia and Hyowon CNC decided not to renew her contract. The sight of both sides cheering for each other's future is heartwarming.

Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr