Baek Ji-young Opens Up About Past Tension with Lee Hyori

Singer Baek Ji-young recently shared her thoughts on a past rivalry with fellow artist Lee Hyori, dating back 14 years.

On October 21, Baek Ji-young's YouTube channel featured a video titled 'Legendary Tension Clip: Lee Hyori vs. Baek Ji-young - The Truth of That Day (Live Q&A).' In the video, Baek Ji-young engaged with fans during a live broadcast alongside her husband, Jung Suk-won.

During the session, a fan asked, "Do you still keep in touch with Lee Hyori?" Baek Ji-young responded with curiosity, "Why is that a question?" A staff member then explained, "A clip of the two of you having a tense exchange is circulating widely."

Back in 2012, Baek Ji-young and Lee Hyori appeared on SBS's 'Jung Jae-hyung and Lee Hyori's You & I.' During the show, Lee Hyori remarked to guest Baek Ji-young, "I debuted in 1998. So, I'm your senior, right?" Baek Ji-young, who debuted as a solo artist in 1999, humorously replied, "Oh my, senior! I forgot because I'm older."

The exchange sparked interest among netizens, who described it as a "battle of the tigers" and a "conversation of predators," making the 'tension' a hot topic. Acknowledging the situation, Baek Ji-young laughed and stated, "It's so funny. Fin.K.L debuted before me."

Jung Suk-won then questioned, "Didn't you debut first as part of 'Trot Voice' before 'Baek Ji-young'? Doesn't that make you the senior?" Baek Ji-young clarified, "No, I'm referring to my debut as Baek Ji-young," positioning herself as the junior.

Before her solo debut, Baek Ji-young was part of a semi-trot group called 'Trot Voice' in 1997, produced by Lee Sang-won of Sobangcha. However, she was known to be a guest member not featured in the album photos.

Regarding her relationship with Lee Hyori, Baek Ji-young candidly shared, "We never really had the chance to become close. We occasionally check in on each other."

Reported by Kim Eun-jung for TenAsia, eun@tenasia.co.kr