In a viral JTBC appearance, Girls' Generation’s Hyoyeon revealed she still lives in the group’s dorm—19 years and counting—and explained the surprisingly practical reason why.
On the April 12 broadcast of the JTBC variety show Please Take Care of My Refrigerator, Hyoyeon and Tiffany Young guested together. Hyoyeon shocked the cast when she revealed that the refrigerator she brought on the show came straight from Girls' Generation’s dorm.
"I still live in the dorm," Hyoyeon said. "I started as a trainee, and it’s already been 19 years." With other members having moved out on their own, the fact that she alone continues dorm life drew attention.
Explaining why, Hyoyeon shared, "My family home is in Songdo, but it’s easier to handle schedules here—and, most of all, they cook for me. You can’t beat that setup." Her down-to-earth answer resonated with viewers.
Hyoyeon especially emphasized the presence of the dorm’s longtime 'imo-nim'—an auntie caretaker who has been with them for years. "She’s been with us since I was in middle school," Hyoyeon said. "If I tell her what I’m craving, she makes side dishes to match." The cast couldn’t hide their admiration for a bond that has provided meals for over two decades.
The refrigerator Hyoyeon revealed wasn’t packed with flashy ingredients but with carefully prepared side dishes. She laughed, agreeing with the reaction that she’s probably eaten more of the auntie’s cooking than even her mom’s.
Hyoyeon debuted with Girls' Generation in 2007 and remains active across music, television, and YouTube.