Kim Garam, Soojin, Yulhee, and other former K-pop idols are finding fresh starts in acting, academics, and solo music, proving there’s life beyond the stage.
Kim Garam, once a rising star in LE SSERAFIM, left the group just weeks after her 2022 debut due to bullying allegations. Similarly, Soojin exited (G)I-DLE in 2021 amid controversy, later reemerging as a solo artist. Yulhee, formerly of LABOUM, stepped away for family life but is now pursuing acting after a public divorce. Others, like FIFTY FIFTY’s former members and Youngseo, are navigating new ventures in music and academics. These women are redefining their futures, showing resilience in the face of challenges.
Kim Garam’s Shift to Academics and Acting
Kim Garam debuted with LE SSERAFIM on May 2, 2022, under Source Music, a HYBE subsidiary. Her time in the spotlight was brief. Bullying allegations surfaced days after her introduction, accusing her of school violence during her middle school years at Gyeongin Middle School (2018–2020). A leaked document, verified by the alleged victim’s law firm, confirmed Kim Garam faced disciplinary action in 2018, including mandatory special education hours. Despite her and HYBE’s denials, public backlash grew fierce.
On July 20, 2022, Source Music terminated her contract. Kim Garam returned to a quieter life, enrolling at the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA) as an acting major. She graduated in May 2023, honing skills in script analysis, voice modulation, and on-camera techniques. Her talent shone through when she passed the first round of applications for Dongguk University’s acting department, a competitive program accepting only 30 of over 2,000 applicants annually.
In April 2025, Kim Garam reappeared in a Konkuk University freshman welcome video for the Department of Media and Acting. Credited as part of the directing team, her involvement suggests a creative pivot behind the scenes. Fans on social media expressed support, with one user stating:
I’m so happy to see Garam quietly pursuing her dreams. She’s proving she’s more than her past.
Wishing her strength to face the world proudly. We’re rooting for her comeback!
Her journey reflects a focus on education and artistry, away from the K-pop glare.
Soojin’s Solo Music Comeback
Soojin, a former member of (G)I-DLE, faced bullying allegations in February 2021. An online post claimed she bullied a schoolmate’s sibling, with actress Seo Shin-ae later alleging Soojin targeted her in school. Soojin denied the claims, stating she never met or bullied Seo Shin-ae. A police investigation found no evidence of false accusations by the original accusers, leading Cube Entertainment to terminate her contract in August 2021.
After two years of silence, Soojin launched personal social media in June 2023 and signed with BRD Communications. Her solo debut mini-album, Agassy, released in November 2023, marked her return. She followed with a second mini-album, toured, and performed at Korean festivals. Fans celebrated her resilience, with one posting:
Soojin dropped two mini-albums, toured, and performed at festivals. Support her instead of dwelling on the past.
Another fan noted:
Soojin’s solo career is thriving. She’s still a singer, carving her own path.
Despite lingering debates about her past, Soojin’s focus on music has rebuilt her connection with fans.
Yulhee’s Transition to Acting After Family Life
Yulhee debuted with LABOUM in 2014 but left in November 2017 to marry FTISLAND drummer Choi Minhwan. At 20, she became one of K-pop’s youngest brides. The couple welcomed a son in 2018 and twin daughters in 2020. Yulhee shared her life on her YouTube channel, Yulhee’s House, balancing motherhood and content creation.
In December 2022, Yulhee and Choi Minhwan announced their divorce, finalized in 2023. Tabloid rumors falsely linked Choi Minhwan to misconduct, which he denied. Yulhee gained custody of their children and began rebuilding her career. In 2024, she signed with an acting agency, taking roles in TV dramas. Her shift to acting has drawn attention, with fans praising her determination.
Yulhee’s courage to start over as an actress after everything is inspiring. She’s doing this for her kids and herself.
Can’t wait to see her on screen!
Her move into acting marks a bold step toward reclaiming her public identity.
FIFTY FIFTY’s Former Members and Ablume
FIFTY FIFTY gained global fame with their 2022 hit Cupid, but controversy followed. In June 2023, members Aran, Saena, Sio, and Keena filed to terminate their contracts with ATTRAKT, citing mismanagement. Public support initially favored the group, but leaked recordings revealed disputes, shifting sentiment. Keena returned to ATTRAKT, while Aran, Saena, and Sio formed Ablume under a new agency.
Ablume debuted their single Echo in April 2025, but the group has struggled to recapture FIFTY FIFTY’s success. Fans remain divided, with some expressing hope:
Ablume’s Echo is a fresh start. I wish Aran, Saena, and Sio the best in their new journey.
Others feel the group faces an uphill battle in regaining traction.
Youngseo’s Academic Pursuit
Youngseo was set to debut with ILLIT through HYBE’s survival show R U Next? but withdrew in 2023, citing mental stress. Little is known about her current activities, but reports suggest she has prioritized academics, enrolling in a university program. Her decision reflects a growing trend among former idols seeking stability outside entertainment.
Youngseo deserves peace after the pressure of R U Next?. Studying suits her.
Her low-profile choice highlights a quieter path post-K-pop.
Resilience and Reinvention
These former idols faced intense scrutiny, yet each has carved a unique path. Kim Garam thrives in academics and creative production. Soojin reconnects with fans through solo music. Yulhee balances motherhood and an acting career. FIFTY FIFTY’s former members and Youngseo pursue music and studies, respectively. Their stories show that life after K-pop, while challenging, offers opportunities for growth.
As of May 2025, Kim Garam continues at Konkuk University, contributing to media projects. Soojin plans new music releases, with fans eagerly awaiting her next steps. Yulhee films her latest drama, while Ablume promotes Echo. Youngseo remains focused on her studies, keeping a low profile.
CREDITS: Nate
