Hyemi, a former member of the group FIESTAR, recently opened up about her current endeavors as a businesswoman and solo singer following the group's disbandment.
FIESTAR, known for their 2012 debut single album 'VISTA' and hits like 'You're Pitiful' and 'Apple Pie,' garnered love from fans throughout their 6-year journey. Unfortunately, despite their hard work, the group did not achieve the desired success, leading to the saddening news of their disbandment.
In a recent appearance on the YouTube channel 'Geunhwang Olympics (Recent Olympics),' Hyemi shared her experiences after departing from FIESTAR, revealing, "It's been around 5-6 years since my time with FIESTAR ended. I am now running a space rental business for practice rooms. I took care of all the interior design myself. My current income is on par with that of an ordinary office worker."
Recalling her trainee days at the same agency as singer/actress IU, Hyemi fondly remembered their close bond. "IU promoted us a lot too. We shared the same dorm when we were trainees so we became close." Hyemi added, "She bought me a luxury bag when she first got paid. She's very loyal. She usually gifts everyone things of that price range."
On a different note, Hyemi expressed that even after being active with FIESTAR for five years, she hadn't received a settlement payment. She explained, "I could barely cover my bills, and we never reached the break-even point. However, the company provided us with some pocket money, and they were supportive." She also shared her concerns about the entertainment industry's system, where many idols don't see significant returns on their investments until their 20s.
Reflecting on her journey, Hyemi confessed, "No matter how hard I worked, it didn't seem to impact our success. I struggled for 10 years, but I can't say I achieved the level of success I hoped for as a singer. It's somewhat regrettable."
Despite the challenges and uncertainties that followed the disbandment, Hyemi saw it as an opportunity to work harder and found her calling as an idol vocal trainer. Presently, she imparts her expertise to aspiring talents such as Kep1er's Yeseo, DKZ's Mingyu, and CLASS:y's Hyungseo.
Moreover, Hyemi didn't abandon her dream of becoming a singer. Under the name YEL, she embarked on a new journey as a solo artist, planning to release her solo album later this year. Eager to connect with her audience through her performances, she stated, "I want to show my true self and share my music with the world. The key to happiness is doing what I love the most."
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Why are people still surprised by this? It's a headline we see every so often now, and I bet there will be comments expressing shock and demanding better treatment.
Being in entertainment doesn't guarantee you will have money. Not even a little. You have to pay back every penny spent on you before you get any money. That's your training, comebacks, concert costs, all of it. Sometimes that never happens, and you're lucky the company waves your debt.
This industry that fans glorify isn't glorious. It's messy, bloody, and cut-throat. You eat or get eaten. I will bet money that most of the older generations either never got paid or paid little because it wasn't as popular as it is currently.