In a recent episode of "LOOSSEMBLE ASSEMBLE," former LOONA members reunite to share candid stories, shedding light on their past struggles and resilience.
Recollection of Hardship in Hungary
During their time shooting a music video in Hungary, memories of hardship resurfaced.
Hyeju recalled a scene where she had to eat during filming.
Starving after being on a restrictive diet, she seized the opportunity to eat more than usual under the guise of perfecting the scene.
Chuu added that Hyeju was instructed to spit out the food off-camera, but she defiantly refused.
They talk about literally being forced to starve as if its a silly fun memory of theirs lmao pic.twitter.com/g7K2KAuFCl
— siesta (@pilledgowon) April 11, 2024
Gowon shared a similar anecdote from their time in Hungary.
During a photo shoot for the album cover, the members had to change inside a bus.
Gowon took advantage of the situation and snuck food meant for the staff members.
Chuu also reminisced about Hyeju sneaking an entire watermelon into her bag, leading to a humorous yet poignant moment that symbolized their struggle.
Reflections on Industry Standards
These revelations shed light on the harsh reality of the K-pop industry, where stringent beauty standards often lead to extreme measures such as starvation.
I'm glad they're able to laugh and talk about it normally but this is excruciating to watch, it's so fucking painful https://t.co/SZQHg2a5iY
— alive girl (@sensitiveorbit) April 12, 2024
While the members shared these stories with a sense of camaraderie and resilience, it also sparked outrage among fans who were upset at the industry's treatment of idols.
I'm floored every time I'm reminded of how much fun I had watching the behind the scenes stuff, and now being aware of how much they suffered when the cameras were off, it puts such a heavy price on some of my most precious memories of my teens
— alive girl (@sensitiveorbit) April 12, 2024
The former LOONA members' reflections serve as a reminder of the toll that such practices can take on individuals striving for success in the entertainment world.
i find it more difficult to praise k-pop (even other celebs but u get my point) looks as time passes because this is the process of getting there it's dehumanising https://t.co/HRbOaKtXir
— tooti fruity (@nugu_cult) April 12, 2024
Despite their past hardships, the members expressed gratitude for their strong bond and teamwork, which helped them navigate through challenging times.
Advocating for Change
As the conversation unfolded, it became evident that while the former LOONA members have moved on to different paths in their careers, the scars of their past experiences remain.
This makes me so sad… so glad they left that horrible company https://t.co/SvFILZw3xU
— roro 🩰 (@haewonburger) April 12, 2024
Their reunion not only reignited fond memories but also opened a dialogue about the need for change within the K-pop industry to prioritize the well-being of its idols.
im glad they can talk abt this now freely (as it is ofc their own experience) but i also understand the fans as well that find it so crazy that after so many generations of kpop this is still a norm https://t.co/mJvvKxVtVF
— M ; (@y12ngi) April 11, 2024
The courage of Vivi, Hyunjin, Yeojin, Gowon, and Hyeju to speak out about their struggles serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be facing similar challenges.
back then i was over the moon because they were filming in my country and I really hoped good memories will be connected to Hungary. now watching it breaks my heart that such bad memories come up when they think of Hungary): our babies deserve the best, i wish they eat well 💜
— vvatta_gashi | MATTCHU DEBUT (@ErenSimp4eva) April 13, 2024
Their voices resonate not only within the K-pop community but also among fans worldwide, sparking conversations about the importance of mental and physical health in the pursuit of dreams.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones