Idol-Turned-Actress No Longer In Touch With Former Group—Addresses Fans’ Hope For K-Pop Comeback
In April 2022, former Apink member Son Naeun made her official exit from the 2011-debuted girl group—as media reports speculated the decision to be for her to focus on her acting career.
Years later, in an interview following her successful starring in the JTBC K-Drama Romance In The House, the idol-turned-actress mentioned the withdrawal and addressed the fans’ hope for her return to K-Pop.
When asked about the intense backlash she received in the process of leaving the group, Son Naeun said it didn’t bother her.
Calling her time as Apink a “beautiful and precious memory” from her teens and 20s, Son Naeun agreed that it was “a great loss” she didn’t get to participate in the final album promotions.
I overthink often, and I regret and hold on to past events. But to be honest, it all feels pointless. The present is the most important, and I want to focus on what’s happening now.
I don’t feel wronged [about the backlash from leaving the group]. I filmed everything for the 10th anniversary album’s music video, but due to scheduling conflicts, I couldn’t participate in the activities. I was sorry to the members and the fans, and I myself felt a great sense of loss. But we were together for a long time through our teens and twenties, [Apink] remains a beautiful and precious memory.
— Son Naeun
Son Naeun noted, however, that she no longer stays in touch with her former group mates…
Fans Suspect Son Naeun’s Latest Instagram Story Is Directed At Apink Members
I had a strong desire to stay with the team until the end, but it came to a point that such was not possible and I just had to accept. So, instead of feeling wronged or regretful, I decided to let things go as it did.
I don’t keep in touch with the members now, but as a fan, I will always cheer them on. I was happy to see Eunji’s work (Miss Night and Day) doing well, and I was glad my work got to air after hers. I look up and watch whatever the members are involved in. They are all working hard, and I support them wholeheartedly.
— Son Naeun
…and respectfully clarified that she has no plans of returning to the K-Pop scene for a while.
Now is a time for me to focus on acting and figure myself out on this new career path. As I’ve started to enjoy acting more, I’ve developed a desire to learn further. Of course, I know there are fans who are waiting for my return as an idol. If the opportunity arises in the future, I would like to hold a fan meeting to satisfy their thirst for my music.
— Son Naeun
Son Naeun’s acting in Romance In The House garnered great response from the viewers. Check out her viral kiss scene chemistry with her fellow idol and co-star, SHINee‘s Minho:
SHINee Minho’s New K-Drama Steamy Kiss With Idol-Turned-Actress Is A Chemistry Explosion
