Yoona from Girls’ Generation Discusses the Mental Challenges of Being in the Spotlight After 18 Years in the Industry

Yoona Opens Up About Her Journey in Recent YouTube Special

On December 25th, the YouTube channel “Hyo’s Level Up” released an engaging video titled “Girls’ Generation Drunk on Christmas,” where member Yoona candidly discussed her illustrious career. She shared her reflections on her long tenure in the entertainment industry, stating, “2024 was a sabbatical year for me. It was almost the only sabbatical I’ve had during my 18 years of activity.” This revelation highlights both the demands of her career and the importance of downtime.

Navigating Burdens and Expectations

During the video, Hyoyeon posed a revealing question to Yoona: “Was there a time during your activities when you felt burdened?” Yoona acknowledged her struggles, saying, “I think I always feel burdened in the beginning. At the start of a project, I seem to go through a character adjustment phase. Until I feel like the character sticks to me, I tend to remain anxious and keep checking myself.” Her openness about this adjustment phase resonates with many who experience performance anxiety.

Understanding the Weight of Leadership

Reflecting on her time with Girls’ Generation, Yoona specifically pointed out the immense pressure she felt during the promotion of their hit song “I GOT A BOY.” She expressed, “There was a sense of pride in being the center, but it also came with the thought, ‘I have to do well.’ I felt strongly that I must not become a hindrance to the group, and that weighed heavily on me.” This statement illustrates the complex dynamics of leadership in a collaborative environment.

Elaborating on her efforts, Yoona stated, “In the chorus of ‘I GOT A BOY,’ Hyoyeon and I had to alternate. I worked tirelessly to match Hyoyeon’s skill level, putting in so much effort that it felt like I was breaking my body.” Her dedication highlights the physical and mental toll that comes with performing at such high levels, showcasing the resilience needed in the entertainment industry.

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