During a recent interview at her Barre Square studio in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul, Nam Ji-hyun reflected on her journey from idol life to her current career. Back in March, news broke that she had become both an instructor and studio owner, drawing attention when fellow former members Jeon Ji-yoon, Heo Ga-yoon, and Kwon So-hyun visited to show their support.
4Minute, who debuted in 2009 with “Hot Issue” and later released hits like “Muzik,” “Mirror Mirror,” “What’s Your Name?,” “Whatcha Doin’ Today,” “Crazy,” and “Hate,” disbanded in 2016. As with many popular groups, their split was clouded by speculation of discord, fueled by social media unfollows and their absence from HyunA’s wedding in October last year.
Yet, on June 19 this year, Nam Ji-hyun indirectly dispelled the rumors by preparing bouquets for all her fellow members on the group’s 16th debut anniversary. HyunA herself acknowledged the gesture by posting a photo of the flowers, captioning it, “We were so beautiful. Precious.”
Speaking candidly, Nam said, “When I was young, I thought I was the only one holding back and enduring everything because of our different personalities. But later, I realized we were all doing that for each other. Seeing that made me feel grateful for even the hurtful moments, which is why I sent flowers for our anniversary.”
She continued, “Back then, I thought I was the only one struggling. But looking back, I realized, ‘That friend must have struggled too,’ ‘She must have endured things as well.’ Why didn’t I see it then?” she added with a faint smile.
Nam explained that although misunderstandings existed, they often chose silence over confrontation. “HyunA and the other members all had different thoughts, but instead of speaking openly, we respected each other’s paths when our contracts ended and went separate ways. Honestly, we were all too kind and considerate. In a way, that’s proof of how close we really were.”
Fans continue to hope for a reunion whenever the members are seen together, and Nam shared an optimistic outlook: “I’m always open to it. Now that HyunA is married, it would be great if an agency helped organize something. I’d like to try it at least once. I feel even more grateful now for those days. Back then, I felt limited and couldn’t show my abilities to the fullest. But I’ve grown, I know how to communicate better, and it would be meaningful to show a more mature side to fans who grew older with us.”
Nam also expressed gratitude to long-time fans who still visit her studio. “It makes me feel like I haven’t lived my life in vain. Since starting this business, I’ve shed many tears—not from hardship but from gratitude. I’m so thankful that there are people who continue to support me beyond my idol days,” she said, her eyes welling with tears.
Sources: naver
You must be logged in to post a comment.