On March 11, 2025, actress Hwang Jung-eum opened up about her experiences as part of the K-pop group Sugar during her appearance on the SBS Plus and E Channel entertainment program, 'Solo Reality'. This reunion not only brought together Hwang Jung-eum with her fellow group members, Ayumi and Yook Hye-seung, but also sparked deep discussions about their past and the emotional challenges they faced during their careers.
Hwang elaborated on her feelings of hurt and disappointment, saying, 3I thought Sugar could become the second Fin.K.L or S.E.S., but I was shocked and hurt when I realized I wasn't a celebrity.3 Her candor highlighted the struggles many artists endure behind the scenes, grappling with the discrepancy between their dreams and reality. It reflected the often unspoken feelings artists feel when faced with public perception versus their personal experiences.
During the episode, Yook Hye-seung revealed her own insecurities, confessing, 3I hated Ayumi getting popular and having different introductions at events. The cheering for her was so loud, it made me feel small.3 This admission was met with empathy from both Hwang and Ayumi, who reflected on how their self-esteem was impacted rather than feelings of pure jealousy. 3It wasn't jealousy, but rather my self-esteem was hurt, and I was very grateful to Ayumi. If it weren't for her, we wouldn't have been known,3 Hwang remarked, emphasizing the complicated relationships forged through their shared experiences.
These revelations revealed the internal conflicts artists often hide, particularly when their careers don't lead to the expected fame or recognition. Hwang also shed light on her decision to step away from the group, stating, 3I left because I didn't like the saying 'Ayumi and the kids' and people know it this way.3 At the time of her departure, she admitted, 3My contract period was three years, and I didn't renew it. I thought Ayumi was the one who made Sugar known, and I felt gratitude tinged with my own insecurities.3
Reflecting on her emotional state back then, she mentioned, 3I had the emotion of seeing her for the first time after breaking up, but the gratitude overshadowed my insecurities.3 This heartfelt exchange among the three women illustrated how even their triumphs came with personal sacrifices and emotional struggles, reminding the audience of the reality behind the glamorous facade of celebrity life.
Ayumi, meanwhile, expressed surprise at the notion of any tension between them, saying, 3At the time, I didn't think of it like this. Now I realize it might have made you feel bad, but we didn't show it at the time.3 This acknowledgment of their shared history, with all its ups and downs, emphasized the need for open dialogue among individuals who share similar life experiences, be it in the entertainment industry or beyond.
Despite the challenges she faced, Hwang Jung-eum currently enjoys success outside of her musical career, having invested wisely and living comfortably. She resides in a stunning luxury home valued at 4.6 billion won, signifying her resilience and capability to navigate through periods of difficulty. Her lifestyle now contrasts sharply with those early days of anxiety and hurt, serving as a reminder of her growth.
This heart-wrenching yet uplifting episode of 'Solo Reality' served to reconnect the former members of Sugar and allowed them to confront their pasts together, reaffirming their bonds forged through shared trials. By sharing their stories, they provided valuable insights not just to fans of K-pop, but to anyone grappling with similar feelings of insecurity and the importance of gratitude and acknowledgment of the paths we take.
Hwang, Ayumi, and Yook's conversation finally shifted focus to their current lives and what the future may hold for them, leaving viewers with the hopeful notion of healing and acceptance as they celebrated their unique journeys.