Former Girl Group Member Heo Chan-mi Opens Up About Past Relationship on 'Baekban Journey'

Former girl group member Heo Chan-mi has opened up about her past relationship with an ex-boyfriend.

On the October 3rd episode of TV CHOSUN's 'Baekban Journey with Heo Young-man', 'Miss Trot 4' winner Lee So-na and runner-up Heo Chan-mi head to Chuncheon, Gangwon Province.

Lee So-na, crowned the winner of 'Miss Trot 4', shares a bittersweet story from her days of obscurity when she had no fans and even had to decline ticket giveaways. However, she candidly reveals how her life has changed since 'Miss Trot 4', stating that she now only goes home to sleep. She shares anecdotes of being recognized in restaurants, receiving unexpected services, and even noticing changes in the side dishes and meat quality. Her growing fanbase among the elderly has led to gifts of health products, and her surprising taste for traditional Korean dishes impresses everyone during a challenging vegetable name test.

Heo Chan-mi, known as the 'Trot Resilient', showcases her easygoing personality with a carefree eating show. While reminiscing about memories tied to freshwater snails, she shares a humorous story involving her ex-boyfriend. Additionally, she reveals her innate talent as a 'born singer' through stories from her childhood.

After their meal, the trot goddesses Lee So-na and Heo Chan-mi surprise the restaurant patrons and the owner with a live performance, delighting everyone with their vocal prowess and engaging fan service.

The episode also delves into their personal stories. Lee So-na discusses her transition from nearly two decades in traditional Korean music to trot, confessing, "I'm finally walking the path I want." Heo Chan-mi opens up about enduring over 10 years as an idol trainee and her decision to pursue a career in trot music.

Heo Chan-mi's journey began at age 13 as a trainee at SM Entertainment, where she was part of the pre-debut lineup for Girls' Generation but never debuted. After six years of training, she debuted with the co-ed group 'Coed School', but activities ceased just two months later. She also left the group 'F-ve Dolls' after joining.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr