SHINee Onew Reveals ‘Friend’ Helped Him Through Hiatus

Onew recently opened up about a difficult time he experienced. The SHINee leader admitted that one “friend” helped him get through his hiatus early in his career!

Onew Introduces ‘Friend’ Who Comforted Him During Hiatus

On July 27 KST, the SHINee leader appeared as a special guest on the latest episode of TWICE Jeongyeon‘s YouTube show, ‘The Inspector,’ titled ‘Meeting Onew for the First Time?! What Happens When the ‘No Jams’ of TWICE and SHINee Meet!’.

During the episode, Onew visited JYP Entertainment to donate some gifts and spend time with Jungyeon at a playground near the agency. Among the gifts he donated was a cherished baseball glove, which held a special significance in his life.

“This is a pitcher’s glove. It was during 2010 or 2011 when I had vocal cord surgery and couldn’t speak for about six months,” Onew explained as he showed Jeongyeon his glove. “During that time, I bought this glove and spent six months throwing the ball in silence. That period of anxiety, loneliness, and hardships – I can say that it was a friend that helped me withstand that.”

Onew’s revelation highlighted a challenging chapter in his life. The surgery to remove vocal cord polyps and restore his voice led to a significant hiatus in his activities. During this time, he faced the daunting task of relearning how to produce sound from scratch. His baseball glove, fondly named Ike, became a symbol of resilience and a means to cope with the isolation and anxiety he felt during his recovery.

Meanwhile, Onew’s appearance on the show was marked by warm interactions and candid moments, providing fans with a deeper understanding of his journey and the challenges he has overcome. His story is a testament to his determination and strength, resonating with many who have faced similar struggles. As Onew continues to share his experiences, he remains an inspiration to fans and fellow artists alike.