Former T-ara Member Ryu Hwayoung Breaks Silence on Bullying Allegations After 12 Years

Ryu Hwayoung, a former member of the K-pop group T-ara, has spoken out about past bullying allegations, expressing discomfort over recent comments made by Kim Kwang-soo, the former CEO of her agency.

On the 10th, Hwayoung posted a lengthy message on her Instagram account. She began by reflecting on the 2012 'T-ara bullying' incident, acknowledging the social controversy it caused and expressing regret over the group's disbandment. "I have always felt sorry for all the fans who loved T-ara and the members who parted ways with words like bullying and discord," she wrote.

Hwayoung continued, "For 12 years, I have lived with the stigma of being involved in the 'T-ara bullying' incident, not responding to various rumors. Despite the noisy breakup, I remained silent because T-ara was the foundation of who I am today, even though I have many traumas and grievances."

However, after hearing Kim Kwang-soo's remarks on a variety show, she felt compelled to correct what she perceived as biased and distorted statements. "I will speak my truth," she declared.

Hwayoung stated, "First, the bullying I experienced is true." She refuted claims that she was pretending to be a victim, explaining that she tried to integrate with the existing members but faced violence and verbal abuse. "I endured because I thought things would improve if I worked harder," she explained.

She also addressed her ankle injury, stating, "I apologized to the members several times after my ankle injury." She recounted asking to perform at least one song on stage in Japan, feeling guilty for the trouble her injury caused the members.

Regarding the nail care incident, Hwayoung admitted, "It is true that I received nail care at the hotel." She clarified that it was common for T-ara to have nail care services during Japanese activities and felt insulted by the portrayal of her actions as self-indulgent.

Hwayoung revealed that she had evidence to prove the bullying but was persuaded by Kim Kwang-soo to remain silent in exchange for her sister's contract termination. "At just 20 years old, I thought it was the best decision," she said, adding that she left without an apology and kept silent for 12 years.

She expressed frustration over T-ara members denying the bullying on various shows, leaving her and her family feeling powerless. "I want to sincerely ask Kim Kwang-soo why he would bring up a 12-year-old story on TV, mentioning names and making distorted statements," she pleaded.

Hwayoung concluded by acknowledging her current lack of agency representation and the difficulty of confronting a powerful figure like Kim Kwang-soo. "Nevertheless, I speak out because I am confident in revealing the truth of that time," she asserted.

Hwayoung joined T-ara in 2010 but left in 2012 amid bullying allegations. Her twin sister, Ryu Hyoyoung, was also in the same agency, led by Kim Kwang-soo, and both have since transitioned from idol group members to actors.

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