Former Idol Group Members Address Rumors on YouTube and Social Media

Former idol group members are increasingly using YouTube shows and social media to directly address rumors, engaging with the public and dispelling long-standing speculations.

SISTAR's Bora and Soyou recently appeared on the web show 'Jjanhyung' on the 21st, where they discussed rumors of discord within the group. Soyou stated, "There was talk that if we fought, the van would shake. We simply said we don't ride the van." Bora added, "I heard a rumor that Hyolyn hit Soyou and Soyou said something back. Among us, we are comfortable and not hurt by such things, so we sometimes speak bluntly in the waiting room, but others might see it as fighting," hinting at the close relationship among the members.

Minyoung from Brave Girls also spoke out about her relationship with former member Yujeong. Brave Girls, who debuted in 2016, gained belated attention in 2021 when their past release 'Rollin'' went viral. In 2023, Yujeong left the group after their contract with Warner Music Korea expired, while the remaining three members signed with GLG and continued as a trio. Amidst rumors of discord, leader Minyoung appeared on the YouTube channel 'One Mic' last month to clarify the situation.

In the video, Minyoung stated, "There was no discord within the team," explaining, "We went to Bohol with the members, and it was around the time Yujeong left. People misunderstood when they saw the three of us traveling together." Minyoung candidly shared, "It was sudden when Yujeong expressed her intention to leave, and I felt a bit hurt." However, she added, "We spent 10 years together, and everyone had their own thoughts during that time. We decided to respect and support Yujeong."

4Minute recently put an end to rumors of discord after nine years. Since their disbandment in 2016, the group had been plagued by rumors, especially after members unfollowed HyunA on social media and did not attend her wedding to Yong Junhyung last year.

On the 16th anniversary of 4Minute's debut in June, HyunA posted a celebratory message on social media, sharing a photo of a bouquet she received from leader Nam Ji-hyun with the caption, "We were so beautiful, precious." However, only Nam Ji-hyun was tagged in the post, leaving some rumors unresolved. Later that month, HyunA shared a photo with Kwon So-hyun, where they posed holding hands, effectively putting an end to the longstanding rumors. Fans expressed hope for a full reunion of the group.

Public interest in the relationships between former group members remains high even after their activities have ended. Addressing long-standing rumors rather than ignoring them positively impacts their image, fostering authenticity and potentially laying the groundwork for future group activities or reunions.

By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr