In a recent episode of Donghaemul and Baekdu Eunhyuk (동해물과 백두은혁), the YouTube series hosted by Super Junior’s Eunhyuk and Donghae, rookie girl group SAY MY NAME made a special appearance. The spotlight quickly turned to Hitomi, the group’s leader, who opened up about her experience since taking the helm — and the challenges she now shares with her former leader, Kwon Eunbi, also known as the “Waterbomb Goddess.”
Hitomi candidly reflected, “I called Eunbi unnie and told her, ‘I think I finally understand how you must’ve felt.’ And she replied, ‘That’s why I was always crying.’”
The moment resonated with fans, revealing the immense emotional pressure placed on leaders in K-pop groups, especially for those who carry the dual burdens of age and cultural difference. Hitomi, as a Japanese member leading a Korean girl group, admitted, “It’s a bit of a burden, but I’ve had more experience than the others, so I’m trying to grow together with them.”
The singer also revealed her strict self-discipline, saying she hadn’t eaten fried chicken in 3–4 years, despite loving it, due to her commitment to her role. Eunhyuk and Donghae were visibly impressed by her dedication and maturity.
Comparing her time in IZ*ONE, where she was a younger member with fewer leadership responsibilities, Hitomi confessed that her current role feels much more demanding. “In IZ*ONE, I only had two younger members, but now, I’m the oldest and everyone else is younger,” she said, highlighting the emotional and practical shift in her new position.
The group recently debuted on August 1 with the single “iLy,” a vibrant summer track built around Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Fans have praised the song’s energy and freshness, and Hitomi’s heartfelt interview has only deepened public admiration for her growth.
As fans look forward to SAY MY NAME’s journey, Hitomi’s honest words serve as a reminder of the quiet sacrifices and emotional burdens that come with leadership — and a tribute to Kwon Eunbi, whose grace under pressure continues to inspire.
Sources: nate
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