These 5 K-pop idols diagnosed with ADHD prove that having a disability is not a hindrance for them to become successful. 

In the K-pop industry, idols are admired for their passion, perseverance, and discipline, having to train for long years before debuting. In order to surpass the journey, one must maintain a healthy mind and body, which will be challenged by pressure and fatigue.

It's hard enough for normal-functioning idols, but what more for those with chronic health conditions?

Recently, idols with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have drawn attention from K-pop fans.

ADHD is considered a developmental disability, specifically a neurodevelopmental disorder that can last from childhood to adulthood. It is characterized by excessive impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Thus, a person with ADHD usually has a hard time paying attention to just one task, as well as it's challenging to manage their impulsive behaviors.

Despite these, the listed idols proved that ADHD is not an excuse to succeed and are now top-tier K-pop stars.

5 K-pop Idols With ADHD

1. 2NE1 Park Bom

In 2009, Park Bom debuted as a member of 2NE1 and rose as one of the top vocalists in K-pop. While she always gives her all on stage, some may not know that she's been dealing with a health condition, ADHD.

Among idols with ADHD, the revelation of Park Bom's disorder was rather controversial as it came to the public's knowledge after she was accused of taking illegal drugs in 2014.

At the time, the female star was caught "smuggling" 80 amphetamine tablets from the U.S., which were sent through a package by her family.

During the investigation, it was then clarified that although the drug is illegal in South Korea. It is a legal medication in the U.S. and Park Bom is taking it as prescribed by the doctor in the foreign country.

Later on, she revealed that it was an Adderall pill that she had been taking since she was a child.

She developed ADHD symptoms after a friend's death.

2. Henry Lau

Debuting in 2008 as Super Junior-M, Henry Lau was labeled as a "music genius" for his singing skills, songwriting, composing, and production skills. He was also lauded for being able to play various instruments.

However, he received criticism for his impulsive and chaotic behavior, which was misunderstood by some as being "rude" and "unmannerly."

During a broadcast in 2014, Henry confessed that he was actually diagnosed with ADHD when he was in middle school.

Thanks to medication, it was controlled, but some symptoms are still showing even if he's now an adult.

3. GOT7 Jackson

Jackson is one of the most playful members of GOT7, but some may not know that some of his gestures and behaviors were caused by his having ADHD.

He had it since he was a student, and at the recommendation of a teacher in a public school he attended before, he was transferred to an international school in Hong Kong to manage his behavior more.

Regardless of his symptoms, being unable to focus on one thing is not a problem for Jackson and led him to have a long list of accolades such as being a singer-songwriter, rapper, dancer, fashion designer, host, mentor, businessman, and founder of his own label, TEAM WANG.

4. Former 9MUSES Ryu Sera

In 2010, Ryu Sera debuted as a member of 9MUSES and rose as one of the most iconic second-gen girl groups with their hits, "Doll," "Hurt Locker," and more.

In 2021, she shared that she was diagnosed with ADHD on top of panic depression which she had been dealing with since 2019.

At the time, she encouraged people diagnosed with depression and social anxiety to get tested for ADHD as well and get treated for it not only with medication but with the help of a psychologist.

5. aespa NingNing

Debuting in 2020, NingNing became a top fourth-gen idol as a member of aespa and became a top-tier vocalist among current idols as well.

She has been working hard, but NingNing confessed that she has been enduring the symptoms of ADHD, which has been extremely affecting her life.

"I have ADHD. It was extreme for me. If I don't use my cell phone, I end up doing this and that. I get messed up alone in my room. I also can't focus well. For example, I like reading books and painting. I like reading books, but I can't focus well."

READ MORE: 5 K-pop Idols Who Perform Incredibly Despite Poor Physical Conditions

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Written by Eunice Dawson.