The Inspector Archives • K-POP LIFE

SHINee Onew Reveals ‘Friend’ Helped Him Through Hiatus

Onew Introduces ‘Friend’ Who Comforted Him During Hiatus

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.

TWICE Jeongyeon Opens Up About Life After Hiatus

Jeongyeon has finally opened up about taking time off from TWICE and her life after hiatus from group activities.

TWICE’s Jeongyeon Addresses Life After Hiatus

On July 20 KST, TWICE‘s Jungyeon welcomed singer Kim Jaejoong as a special guest on the inaugural episode of her YouTube show “The Inspector” titled ‘I Raided Kim Jaejoong’s Company.’ The episode was a candid exploration of their lives as seasoned idols, where they delved into their experiences, shared valuable insights, and toured the iNKODE building. The dynamic duo also enjoyed a meal of spicy food, sparking interesting conversations.

During their journey to the restaurant, Kim Jaejoong revealed his unique method of stress relief—eating spicy food. He shared anecdotes about his penchant for drinking alone, even mentioning a recent outing where he enjoyed makgeolli at a convenience store. Jeongyeon found herself resonating with the simplicity of such moments, highlighting the comfort and relaxation found in everyday pleasures.

“We can’t do those kinds of things as part of our daily routine, so doing those small things makes me happier,” Jeongyeon said. “There was a time when I had to stop my activities [as a singer]. After that, I think I’ve been trying to keep my mind more at ease,” she added.

Jaejoong then asked how she has taken care of herself after resuming group activities. “These days, I’m trying to find more hobbies. It gives me motivation. Thinking ‘After work, I can do my hobby’ gives me strength,” Jeongyeon said. Jaejoong then offered some advice as a veteran performer. The exchange underscored a shared sense of normalcy and authenticity in their lives outside of their public personas.

The episode not only showcased their friendship but also offered a glimpse into the personal lives of two of K-pop’s most beloved artists. Jungyeon’s candid conversation with Kim Jaejoong provided fans with a deeper understanding of their journeys, struggles, and the small joys that keep them grounded. The show promises to be a refreshing take on the lives of idols, bridging the gap between their public and private selves.