Legendary 1st Gen Girl Group Member’s New Career Shocks Fans

Former Jewelry member Lee Jihyun is gaining attention for her successful career change into the beauty industry.

After reportedly passing her cosmetology licensing exam on her eighth attempt, Lee Jihyun worked as a hairstylist at a salon in Cheongdam-dong before recently transferring to a newly opened branch of JUNO HAIR. She has since been selected as the branch’s director, signaling a promising new chapter in her post-idol career.

Fans and netizens have been praising her determination and willingness to start over in a completely different field. Many applauded her for building a stable second career through hard work and persistence rather than relying solely on her celebrity status.

Her transition has also drawn comparisons to fellow former member Jo Minah, who previously made headlines for becoming a top-performing insurance salesperson after leaving the entertainment industry.

Online, some commenters noted that Lee Ji-hyun’s grounded approach feels refreshing compared to celebrities who continue clinging to their star image long after their peak fame.

연예인으로 살다가 할 줄 아는 게 없다는 핑계로
아프리카, 엑셀, BJ 쪽으로 빠지는 것보다 좋다고 생각함

팬들이나 걸그룹 후배들한테도 좋은 선례잖아 https://t.co/ZjBDCOzWkW

— 프레즐또이또이 (@canwedonot) May 7, 2026

I think is is better than those who still use the excuse that they don’t know how to do anything after living as a celebrity and end up as streamers. This is a good example to her fans and her juniors.

canwedonot