On March 13, a video titled “A gathering of people who enjoy web novels more than shorts” was uploaded to the YouTube channel Zzin’s Page. In the video, Jeon Jiyoon appeared as a guest and introduced herself not only as a singer but also as a web novel author.

Jeon Jiyoon explained, “I used to be active as a singer, and now I’m also working as a web novel writer.” She added that many people were unaware of this side of her career because she has been keeping it a secret. “Since I’ve been hiding the fact that I’m writing web novels, many people don’t know. This is actually my first time appearing on a show as a web novel writer,” she said.

Jeon Jiyoon also shared her excitement about appearing on the program. “I’m definitely a fan, but it’s my first time appearing somewhere as a writer, so I’m really thrilled. I’ve only seen these people through media before, so it’s amazing to meet them in person. Today I just want to enjoy chatting and having fun,” she said.

When asked about the web novel that first drew her into the genre, Jeon Jiyoon revealed it was the hugely popular series Solo Leveling. She also talked about how deeply she can get immersed in web novels, recalling a travel experience where she couldn’t stop reading. “I was traveling but became so curious about the next chapter that I wanted to return to the hotel quickly. I even left sightseeing midway just to continue reading. The friend who traveled with me said, ‘You’re seriously dedicated.’”

Jeon Jiyoon explained that web novels offer a unique reading experience. According to her, while short-form content delivers quick and intense stimulation, web novels allow readers to interpret the same sentences differently, creating a more immersive and personal experience.

She also revealed that her interest in writing started early. During her childhood, she used to write fan fiction and share it with classmates. “Fan fiction is basically a type of novel. I used to write some and pass it around among my classmates. Since many of them were fans too, they really enjoyed reading it,” she said.

Speaking about how she eventually became a web novel writer, Jeon Jiyoon explained that it began from simple curiosity. “I was just reading for fun at first, but then I thought, ‘What if I try writing one myself?’ Around that time, there was a government-supported academy program offering free training, so I applied. After passing the interview, I became one of the top students there, and eventually I signed a writer’s contract and made my debut.”

Currently writing under a pen name, Jeon Jiyoon continues to keep her identity as a web novelist private. She explained that revealing it might not necessarily be beneficial for her. “I thought carefully about whether it would really help me if people knew who I was, and I felt that it might not, so I’ve been cautious about revealing my identity,” she said.

Sources: Naver