Ailee, a second-generation Korean-American singer, opened up about the identity confusion and challenges she faced after becoming a singer in Korea.
On December 4 KST, Ailee appeared on the YouTube channel 'Goeun Unnie' to share updates on her life. During the episode, Ailee spent time reminiscing about the past with actress Han Go Eun, who is also a Korean-American, discussing cultural differences, the challenges of adapting to life in Korea, and their experiences in the entertainment industry.
Recalling her beginnings, Ailee stated, "After posting a video on YouTube 18 years ago, I started receiving attention and got so many requests to come to Korea for auditions," adding, "Some people even came all the way to New Jersey."
Ailee gained fame by uploading covers of Whitney Houston's songs, such as 'Greatest Love of All' and 'I Have Nothing', on her YouTube channel in 2007. The videos became a viral sensation, leading her to move to Korea in 2011 and officially debut the following year.
Regarding the situation at the time, she said, "Since I was in my 20s, I think I just found it fun. I liked Korean culture so much that I was so happy to promote in Korea." However, she admitted that the process of adapting was not entirely smooth.
Ailee confessed her inner struggles regarding her identity, stating, "When I lived in the US, I was Korean to my friends, but when I actually came to Korea, I was a foreigner. I felt like I was always somewhere in between." She added, "The best part was living in Korea, but there were situations where I felt like an outsider and a minority."
Hearing this, Han Go Eun empathized, remarking, "There is an ambiguous position unique to Kyopos (Korean diaspora) where you are treated as a foreigner wherever you go."
Ailee also revealed that she had little opportunity to learn Korean history in the US, so she started studying on her own after arriving in Korea. She mentioned, "My favorite program is 'Naked Korean History'."
Furthermore, Ailee shared that she gained great courage before her debut by watching Han Go Eun. She said, "At the 2009 MAMA awards, Han Go Eun unnie appeared alone wearing a black jumpsuit, and nothing could have looked cooler." She expressed her gratitude, saying, "Hearing that she was a Kyopo senior, she became an icon who gave me hope that I could also become a singer in Korea."
Reflecting on her growth, Ailee displayed a mature attitude. She stated, "In the past, the words 'You are a foreigner' were hurtful, but now understanding both Korean and American cultures has become my strength," adding, "I hope my music can become a bridge connecting the two worlds."
Ailee debuted simultaneously as a singer and actress in 2012. She made her appearance as an actress through the KBS drama 'Dream High 2' and created a sensation in the music industry with her debut single 'Heaven'. She rose to instant stardom by achieving great success with 'I Will Show You', released the following year.
Currently active with album releases and concerts, she married actor Choi Si Hun last April. The two had already completed their marriage registration last year prior to the wedding, becoming a legal couple.
Ailee will meet fans by holding a year-end concert at KBS Arena in Seoul on December 24 KST.
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