Former After School member Lizzy opened up about feeling overwhelming depression.
During an Instagram Live on the 28th, Lizzy said, "Being a celebrity means everything is out in the open," adding, "If someone told me they wanted to go public and be active, I would try to stop them. It seems especially tough for female idols." She continued, "I don't regret choosing this line of work, but I blame myself a lot for my actions. My depression is so severe that I was talking about whether I live or die, my account got suspended, and I came here."
On the broadcast, she grew emotional, saying, "People ask why anyone would die in a world this good, but it's too hard for me to live. If I'm struggling this much, what good is it that the world is supposedly good?"
Viewers flooded the chat with concern and support following Lizzy's comments. Fans comforted her with messages like, "You're not alone" and "It's okay to take a break right now."
Lizzy debuted with the group After School in 2010 and also found mainstream success with the subunit Orange Caramel alongside Nana and Raina. However, after receiving a 15 million won fine for a DUI rear-end collision in 2021, she stepped back from the spotlight. Last May, she made her return with her first solo fan meeting in Tokyo, Japan.
※ If you or someone around you is struggling with depression or having suicidal thoughts, you can receive 24/7 professional help through the following hotlines in Korea: Suicide Prevention Hotline ☎1393, Mental Health Hotline ☎1577-0199, Lifeline ☎1588-9191, and Youth Counseling ☎1388.