Several former K-pop idols and entertainers have recently stunned fans by revealing unexpected career changes, choosing to step away from the spotlight and begin entirely new chapters in their lives.
From becoming airline cabin crew and cosmetic clinic managers to retiring from comedy and leaving the entertainment industry altogether, these stars are proving that life after fame can take many different directions.
Former PRISTIN Member Jung Eun-woo Becomes Plastic Surgery Clinic Manager
On May 29, former idol Jung Eun-woo shared a short video on social media introducing herself as a “former idol.”
Jung Eun-woo reflected on her journey through survival programs such as Superstar K4, Voice Kids, and Produce 101 before eventually debuting with the K-pop group PRISTIN.
Now 28 years old, she candidly admitted that she could no longer rely on dreams alone and needed a more stable career path.
As a result, Jung Eun-woo revealed that she has become a manager at a plastic surgery clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district, joking that succeeding in the field might be easier than becoming a successful idol.
Former MYTEEN Member Choi Eun-soo Becomes Flight Attendant
Former MYTEEN member Choi Eun-soo also surprised fans with a major career transition.
After MYTEEN disbanded in 2019, Choi Eun-soo reportedly worked in various industries, including office jobs, retail, hospitality, and part-time positions. Drawing on his customer service skills and foreign language abilities, including Japanese and English, he ultimately pursued a career in aviation and achieved his goal of becoming a flight attendant.
Comedian Maeng Seung-ji Announces Retirement from Comedy
Comedian Maeng Seung-ji recently made headlines by unexpectedly announcing her retirement from comedy.
Debuting as part of Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation>’s 20th class of comedians in 2013, Maeng Seung-ji quickly gained attention and won the Female Rookie Award in the comedy category at the 2013 MBC Entertainment Awards.
However, she explained that she has not performed public comedy for more than a decade and no longer feels comfortable being labeled solely as a comedian.
While officially retiring from comedy, Maeng Seung-ji emphasized that she plans to continue working as an actress and television personality while focusing on enjoying a new phase of her life.
CLC‘s Kwon Eun-bin Steps Away from the Entertainment Industry
Perhaps the most shocking announcement came from former CLC member and actress Kwon Eun-bin.
The star revealed that she intends to return to life as a private citizen, stating that she wishes to live quietly away from public attention.
Kwon Eun-bin debuted with CLC in 2016 before transitioning into acting and appearing in dramas such as Hierarchy.
Adding weight to her announcement, her public profiles were removed from major portals, while Cube Entertainment confirmed that her exclusive contract had officially ended following extensive discussions.
Many fans interpreted the move as a de facto retirement from the entertainment industry.
The recent announcements highlight a growing reality within the entertainment industry: not every celebrity remains in the spotlight forever.
Whether pursuing careers in healthcare, aviation, business, or simply seeking a more private life, these former stars are choosing stability, personal fulfillment, and new opportunities beyond the stage and screen.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠투데이
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