Oh My Girl's YooA Embraces Her Idol Roots as She Ventures into Acting

Star Catcher: Shining a Light on Promising Stars in the Entertainment Industry

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"These days, people often call me 'Actress YooA,' but I still consider my roots to be with the group Oh My Girl. I want to carry the love and career I've built as Oh My Girl's YooA over the past decade."

YooA explained her decision to keep her stage name during an interview at a café in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul, late last year. Debuting with the group Oh My Girl in 2015, she recently celebrated her 10th anniversary and has entered her 30s, having been born in 1995.

Her real name is Yoo Si-ah, but she has made a lasting impression on the public as 'YooA' over the past decade. Although she once confessed on a broadcast that she wasn't fond of her stage name, she has grown to love it as she became beloved as Oh My Girl's YooA.

Many entertainers switch to their real names when transitioning from idol to actor, but YooA chose to keep her stage name as she embarked on her acting career. Despite her past doubts about her stage name, she expressed a special affection for the word 'Oh My Girl' that always preceded it. She smiled, saying, "Thanks to my time with Oh My Girl, I've received a lot of love."

"I believe I was able to join the project 'Project Y' because of the love I've received as Oh My Girl's YooA."

YooA's film debut is 'Project Y,' directed by the filmmaker behind 'Park Hwa-young.' The film has garnered attention with confirmed appearances by Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo. YooA's announcement of her acting debut in this film has further heightened interest.

Known for her doll-like visuals, unique voice, and graceful dance moves, YooA has represented Oh My Girl's identity. Last year, she announced her transition to acting, drawing attention once again. As the group's center and a solo artist, she has always stood out, earning the label 'born idol.' Her decision to pursue acting surprised many fans.

"Rather than starting anew as 'Yoo Si-ah,' I wanted to continue using the name YooA, which embodies Oh My Girl's identity. I wanted to respect the time I've spent with my fans and not deny it."

She confessed, "As an idol, I was incredibly busy. Even during short breaks, my mind was always working. It would be a lie to say there were no tiring moments."

In March 2024, YooA appeared on the web variety show 'No Mercy Tak Jae-hoon,' humorously admitting, "I have little desire for material things," and "I want to live without working," which drew laughter. She explained, "It was a witty exchange typical of variety shows. While I enjoy working, everyone has days when they want to rest. It was one of those days, and I jokingly said I didn't want to work, which many found amusing." She added, "I love both resting and working."

"I'm actually quite shy, so I work hard to build confidence. I tell myself, 'I'm cool,' 'I can do it.' Some might say it's unnecessary, but I want to be proud of myself. I need to feel prepared to be confident."

YooA laughed, "Some people think I have a cold image or that I'm mysterious, but I'm actually like a dog that wags its tail a lot." Throughout the interview, she maintained a friendly atmosphere, sharing stories as if chatting with a friend.

"There was a time when I had bangs, and everyone at the salon was surprised. In group settings, you have to get ready quickly. We had to finish in a short time, so I washed my bangs with hand wash in the bathroom."

When asked for an anecdote that reveals her true personality, YooA shared, "I love people and am honest and expressive. Fans know this, but the general public might not. When I'm not working, I prefer comfort over style. Fans recently told me, 'YooA is so down-to-earth,' and that's truly who I am."

Despite her image as a 'born idol,' the interview revealed a different charm. Her candid and affectionate nature contrasted with her polished media image. As YooA embarks on her new journey as an actress, anticipation builds for the new sides she will reveal.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr