Looking at someone growing over time can be an emotional experience. However, for those who have been under the eyes of the public since childhood, that journey comes with a huge burden. Choi Yoojung, who debuted in the sector at only 17 through season 1 of “produces 101” and became a member of Ioi in 2016, candidly shared that the pressure was immense.
“When young internships exercise together, it is a crucial moment to develop their identities and values. Everything they experience in that phase influences them deeply”. He reflected.
The harsh realities of the training of the idol
Choi Yoojung admitted that training methods in his first days were quite rigorous. “To become an artist with real skills, infinite practices and discipline are needed. However, in that young age, instincts often take command. The company had to be severe with us”, He explained. He also remembered conversations with other idols on the hard formation they have endured, adding to the pressure he tried.
While continued, he shared how fragile it was once, “There was a time when I felt like the glass, ready to shatter at any time. The stimuli of the world could hurt me deeply. But as I became stronger, I learned to recover. Now, I’m even grateful for those challenges.” This self -awareness led her to open a personal channel, sharing small moments of her life and embracing her true self.
Overcome doubts and fears
Although it was not always confident, the support of fans and colleagues helped her to heal. “I thought the debut would be the final goal, but it was then that I started learning. I faced moments of doubt, asking me if I was suitable for this career”, He admitted. After training from the elementary school, he often questioned what the future had held. “I started because I really liked to dance, but I didn’t fully understand what a celebrity involved. I also considered the other careers that I could have pursued.”
Despite his uncertainties, one thing continued, his love for the stage. “There are many aspects of this work that is fine for me, and I really like to perform. When I get on stage, I am completely prepared and at that moment, even hundreds of eyes on me do not make me feel shy. It is when I try the greatest thrill and satisfaction.”
Move the mentality for growth
Choi Yoojung confessed to feeling anxious before work, often losing sleep the night before a recovery. But since then he has learned to alleviate that pressure. “I thought too much and I felt trapped by my own concerns. But when I realized that I consciously changed my mentality. Now, I say to me:” It’s just a day, go just to do your best. “That turn helped me face challenges with a clearer mind.”
He also discovered that excessive analysis could suffocate it. “Too thinking makes me rigid. But when I let go, sometimes I surprise myself with what I can do. That feeling of pride makes me less fear than new experiences.”
Designs as a solo artist and actress
After issuing his first single “Girasole” in 2022, Choi Yoojung found the experience deeply personal. “When I listen to it, it seems to read an old diary. It’s a reflection of my journey.” Through solo promotions, he learned to perfect his artistic identity and hopes to bring more confidence to the stage in future projects. Although concrete plans are not set, they continue to explore the songwriting, the learning of the guitar and the news of the texts.
Even if it moves from group activities, a goal remains clear, enjoying the process. “Sometimes, even after all the preparation, being on stage seems completely free. I don’t want to lose that feeling.” He dreams of creating music that honestly captures his emotions, believing that someone outside refers there. “If so, why not be completely sincere in my work?”
Looking to the future: embrace the challenges
As he enters his tenth year in the sector, Choi Yoojung looks back with conflicting emotions: pride, admiration and even a little anguish. “It was a long way, but I’m grateful. I want to live a life in which I can love myself without regrets.”
He recently made the audition for a new project, going beyond his comfort area. “It was a discouraging challenge, but I wanted to end up knowing that I gave the best. Surprisingly, it made me appreciate the process. For the first time, I found joy in an audition, not only to anxiety.”
Reflecting on his overflowing forces – drive, responsibility and love of the fans – he underlined, “Receiving love helps me love me more. This is what makes me go on.”
Having made his musical debut last year and his film debut this year with “The noisy Mansion”, he continues to take daring steps, also by launching his YouTube channel. “I want to show people who are not afraid of challenges. Whether it’s musicals, youtube or albums, I will take full responsibility for my choices.”
The journey of a determined artist
The trainee a shy time who cried in the rehearsal room has become a weighted and sincere artist. At each step, he continues to balance the weight of his career with a strong sense of himself.
“I will continue to work hard to be an authentic and warm heart artist. I am so grateful to those who remain curious about my journey. Trust me, it will be an interesting race. So, please continue to get me on me!”
