“Wouldn’t it be wrong if the people who work for us lost their livelihood because of something I did? I’ve lived with a strong sense of responsibility since I was young. I’ve always tried not to create negative issues, and I avoided making choices that even felt slightly risky.”
That was how YooA began reflecting on her mindset during an interview held at a café in Cheongdam, Gangnam, Seoul, late last December. Debuting in 2015 as a member of Oh My Girl, the 1995-born star recently entered her 30s and is now taking on a new challenge: transitioning into acting in 2025.
Known for her doll-like visuals, distinctive vocal tone, and graceful dance lines, YooA has long represented the group’s identity. As both the center of Oh My Girl and a solo artist, she has built a clear presence in the industry, earning the nickname “born idol.” News of her decision to pursue acting, however, came as a surprise to many fans.
Interest intensified when it was revealed in June last year that she had signed an exclusive contract with actor-focused agency Saram Entertainment. Throughout the interview, YooA repeatedly expressed deep affection for her fans and fellow members.
“From a young age, we learned that our actions don’t just affect us individually,” she said. “Through team activities, I realized that one mistake from me could impact all the members. That made me feel a greater sense of responsibility for every choice I make. There were difficult times because of that, but I think it also made me stronger. I always try to be careful with my actions and words. My behavior represents the team.”
According to YooA, her members have been endlessly supportive of her new path.
“They always tell me, ‘You can do anything well,’ and ‘You work hard, and you’re talented, so you’ll succeed at whatever you choose. Have confidence.’ Seunghee once said that when she feels shaken, she reminds herself, ‘So what?’ I realized I needed that mindset too. Now I try to tell myself, ‘It’s fine. It’s not a big deal,’ and be braver.”
YooA’s film debut will be through 'Project Y,' the latest work from the director of Park Hwa Young. The project has already drawn attention, with Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo confirmed as cast members. With both the production team and cast generating buzz, anticipation is even higher as it marks YooA’s first film following her career shift.
“Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo are around my age, and they’ve each built their own characters and earned public love in a challenging environment. I learned a lot just by watching them,” she said. “Rather than wanting to act alongside a specific person, I feel honored just to share a set with anyone.”
Reflecting on her early acting experiences, YooA admitted, “After trying it myself, I realized how difficult acting really is. It feels like cultivating oneself, almost like spiritual training. That made me respect actors even more. I think this is a time when I can learn so much simply by being on set with others.”
She also expressed a desire to take on roles that break away from her established image.
“I want to challenge myself with roles that are completely different from the YooA people know. I truly admire the late Jang Jin Young. I was deeply impressed by ‘Between Love and Hate.’ I want to portray a character whose life story unfolds over a long narrative. I also admire Daniel Day-Lewis, and ‘In the Name of the Father’ is one of the films I cherish.”
Despite her bright on-stage persona, YooA revealed that she is naturally introverted.
“These days, I often joke, ‘I don’t even know how I dated before,’” she said with a laugh. “I may seem outgoing on the outside, but I’m actually very introverted and timid. I try to act brighter and friendlier because I worry about making others uncomfortable.”
After a decade with Oh My Girl, YooA said her feelings about the group remain fresh and filled with gratitude. She described the members as the driving force of her life.
“I felt it especially during our 10th anniversary concert. Just knowing we were all on stage together was overwhelming. Oh My Girl took quite some time before the public truly recognized us. Each member went through emotional struggles and lonely periods. So even while dancing on stage, we can feel each other asking silently, ‘You’re doing well, right?’”
“The past 10 years with the members have been an indescribable series of deeply moving moments. If it weren’t for this team, these members, and the fans who love us, I wonder if I could be smiling like this and feeling so grateful for my work. The greatest blessing of my life was meeting this team and these members. Without Oh My Girl, there would be no me today.”
Meanwhile, Oh My Girl announced on the 13th that all six members will reunite for full-group activities. Despite changes in agency affiliations, with some members remaining under WM Entertainment, a label subsidiary of RBW, and others moving to different companies, the group collectively chose to prioritize their identity as a six-member team.
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