Why Lee Elijah Chose Acting Over an Idol Career: Insights from 'The Manager'

Lee Elijah reveals why she gave up on becoming an idol on 'The Manager'.

On the October 4th episode of MBC's variety show 'The Manager', actress Lee Elijah's daily life was showcased.

Lee Elijah recently appeared on TV Chosun's 'Miss Trot 4', finishing in 8th place. She shared her reason for joining the trot competition, saying, "I learned classical singing from the third grade, but had to give it up due to vocal cord nodules."

A former member of the KBS choir and a music major from the Korea National University of Arts, Lee Elijah is known for her musical prowess. Regarding her participation in 'Miss Trot 4', she said, "I enjoyed it. My mother was a big fan. I knew many songs from her generation."

Lee Elijah confessed, "I received many offers to become an idol. I was scouted on the streets multiple times. I even received business cards from SM and Big Hit, and had a meeting with Bang Si-hyuk."

Ultimately, Lee Elijah decided against debuting as an idol, explaining, "My parents advised me to go to college first. Once I stepped away, it was hard to go back."

Currently without a manager, Lee Elijah is in a 'temporary protection' state with singer Youngji, saying, "I've been working alone for seven months without a company. I even filmed my latest drama by myself." She added, "I wondered if getting used to being cared for by someone else was the right thing."

Working independently has led to new achievements and a sense of accomplishment for Lee Elijah. She stated, "I don't have a manager or stylist. I'm wearing my own clothes today. Unfortunately, I still get help with makeup."

Lee Elijah also handles her own bookings, revealing, "I negotiate my own appearance fees and schedule. I was satisfied and grateful for the fee from 'The Manager'."

Meanwhile, Lee Elijah, who entered Seoul Institute of the Arts as the top student in acting, is currently studying at Korea University's Graduate School of Psychology and has passed the first-level psychological counselor exam. She shared, "I studied psychology because I think it's the study of people. I might consider becoming a counselor in the future."

Reporter: Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia eun@tenasia.co.kr