Yoon Ji Sung, former leader of Wanna One, recently spoke candidly about his mindset following the group’s disbandment, revealing that he had long anticipated a decline in public attention.“I honestly thought that once Wanna One’s activities ended, I wouldn’t even receive one tenth of the attention and love I had back then,” Yoon said. “Because I had already worried about and predicted that outcome, I didn’t feel emptiness or regret afterward. Knowing that, I really gave it my all.”
The remarks were made during a recent interview at a café in Hannam-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul. Yoon first captured the public’s attention in 2017 through 'PRODUCE 101 Season 2,' where his cheerful wit and engaging speaking style stood out from the moment he appeared on screen. Born in 1991, he was 27 at the time and older than many of the other contestants, having already endured a long seven-year trainee period before finally stepping into the spotlight.
Despite his age and late debut, Yoon never appeared intimidated. Instead, he lifted the atmosphere with his humor and steady leadership, ultimately placing eighth in the final rankings. He debuted as a member of the 11-member group Wanna One and was entrusted with the role of leader. While he initially gained attention for his bright image and quick wit, the reason he has remained consistently loved even nine years after his debut lies in qualities that go far beyond a television persona.
Rather than remaining defined by his image on 'PRODUCE 101 Season 2,' Yoon steadily built a reputation rooted in sincerity. He became known for volunteer work with abandoned dogs, continuous acts of kindness, deep affection for his family, and unwavering appreciation for his fans. Academically, he graduated from the Department of Music Theater at National Traditional Arts High School and the Department of Theater and Film at Myongji College. During his time with Wanna One, he also pursued graduate studies in Performing Arts at Dongguk University, balancing his idol schedule with coursework. He revealed that during the group’s final promotions for the album 'Light,' he faithfully attended graduate school classes alongside his stage activities.
“I debuted relatively late,” he explained. “During my seven years as a trainee, I was always anxious that I might never become a singer. Since life isn’t something you can guarantee, I prepared for graduate school even before debuting. It was one of the goals I had planned. At first, I couldn’t attend because of promotions, but toward the later part of Wanna One’s activities, I felt I could finally commit properly, so I decided to enroll.”
Following Wanna One’s disbandment, Yoon enlisted in the South Korean military in May 2019 and was discharged in December 2020. He then began a new chapter as an actor, making his drama debut in 2021 with 'Let Me Be Your Knight.' Last year, he appeared consecutively in 'Living with a Chaebol Only I Can See' and 'Thunder Cloud Rain Storm,' presenting fresh sides of himself through on-screen roles for the first time in four years.
Rather than dwelling on the past or fixating on the future, Yoon emphasized the importance of gratitude in the present. “Instead of looking back or trying to draw the future, I focus on being thankful for the people right next to me right now and doing my best for them,” he said. “There are so many talented and attractive people in this world. Among them, the fact that someone chooses me, likes me, and continues to support me isn’t something I take lightly.”
He also made a clear distinction between gratitude and nostalgia. “Gratitude and longing are different emotions,” Yoon explained. “I’m deeply thankful to those who have watched me and supported me since my Wanna One days until now, but I don’t necessarily want to go back to that time, nor do I miss it. What matters most to me is the value of the present, doing my best where I stand right now.”
In person, Yoon came across as both thoughtful and humorous. He answered each question with sincerity, naturally weaving in his trademark wit. Throughout the interview, the conversation flowed comfortably, creating an atmosphere similar to a relaxed radio broadcast.
When asked why he believed his popularity might fade after Wanna One’s disbandment, Yoon paused briefly before smiling. “I don’t know, it just felt like that would happen. It was instinctive,” he admitted. “I thought the other members would all do well, and they really are doing great now, which makes me proud. But for some reason, I didn’t think I would be the same.” He then added with warmth, “Still, thanks to the fans, I’ve been able to keep working hard and live the life I have today.”
SEE ALSO: Wanna One to make a long-awaited reunion for a new variety show this year
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