Lee Il-hwa, the prominent member of the iconic girl group Baby V.O.X, shared her heartfelt gratitude for her fellow members during the latest episode of MBC’s 'Advance Guard,' aired on the 25th. This reunion marked not only the group’s performance video shoot but also served as a reflective moment for Lee, who revealed the deep emotional scars she carried through her years of public life.
During the episode, Lee opened up about her challenging past, recalling times when she battled intense anxiety and depression, leading to significant weight loss of up to 30 kilograms. "I felt like I was on the brink of ending it all during those times. The only ones who kept me grounded were my fellow members," she stated, visibly emotional as she recalled how they had supported her through the darkest moments.
The show captured the camaraderie and resilience among the members, who still share deep bonds over two decades since their debut. Lee mentioned fellow bandmates, especially Sin Eun-jin and Kan Mi-yeon, who constantly encouraged her, saying, "They would nag me daily, but it was out of love and concern, and it really pulled me back from the edge." This sentiment struck a chord with viewers, emphasizing the group’s solidarity.
Notably, during the performance video shoot, which followed their long-awaited reunion at the 2024 KBS Gayo Daechukje, the members showcased not only their timeless dance skills but also the joy of being together again after 14 years. They engaged in rehearsals, fun banter, and exercises reminiscent of their younger days, proving they still possess the chemistry and energy of their earlier performances.
Lee’s anecdotes helped bridge the gap between past hardships and the present joys of reunion and collaboration. "Our bond was built on shared hardships. We could confront any public criticism or internal struggles because we had each other’s backs," emphasized Kim I-ji, one of her bandmates. They reminisced about their youth, underscoring the phase they considered formative and defining for their growth.
Exploring these memories, the show also touched on the unfounded rumors and public scrutiny they faced as young idols, which sometimes overshadowed their achievements. Sin Yun-hye lifted the mood by reflecting on moments from their early days: "We were often viewed through the lens of gossip, yet those perceptions only made us tighten our camaraderie."
Lee reiterated the emotional burdens she faced, particularly the anxiety triggered by public scrutiny and past relationships. Sharing, "I was often perceived incorrectly, and it led to misunderstandings about my mental health, causing immense suffering," she emphasized how lonely the road to recovery can be.
With tears welling up, Lee recounted specific incidents, including when she struggled financially. Eun-jin, who had stepped up as ‘the iron fist’ for the group, once assisted Lee with unpaid debts. "I was so overwhelmed; I couldn’t even approach the people I owed money to. Eun-jin practically wrote scripts for me to send them messages," she said, highlighting the unwavering support from her band members.
The episode not only focused on past struggles but also detailed their recent reunion performance, where they dazzled fans with their classic hits like “Get Up,” “U-Ma” and “Killer.” The audience was left exhilarated as the members danced, proving their skills remain sharp over the years. The realization of their enduring talent felt palpable, leaving fans nostalgic yet hopeful for the group’s future endeavors.
Lee's emotional revelations opened the door for discussion about mental health within the entertainment industry, particularly around idol groups who often face intense pressure. Many observers noted how important it is to support one another through such tumultuous life experiences, creating awareness around the issues artists frequently encounter.
Finally, with plans for a grand 30th-anniversary concert on the horizon, Baby V.O.X is set to take this legacy of support and resilience onto the stage for their fans. Their story resonates far beyond just being former idols; it is about the lasting impact of friendship and support among individuals who have faced and overcome great challenges together.
Through this engaging episode, the broadcast was not just about reminiscing over nostalgia and past struggles but also about celebrating their continued strength and unity.