Singer and musical theater actress Ock Joo-hyun, a former member of the iconic first-generation K-pop girl group Fin.K.L, has recently addressed long-standing public misconceptions about her views on marriage while reflecting on her remarkable 27-year career in the entertainment industry. The multi-talented performer made these candid revelations during her appearance on a Channel A variety show that aired on September 8, where she hosted fellow entertainers singer Tei and musical actress Lee Ji-hye for an intimate home-cooked meal.
Ock's journey in the spotlight began in 1998 when she debuted as a member of Fin.K.L, one of South Korea's most influential girl groups that helped define the late 1990s K-pop scene. After achieving tremendous success as a pop star, she made a significant career transition in 2005 when she moved into the world of musical theater. During the show, she shared fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from her Fin.K.L days, offering viewers rare insights into the group's early years and the experiences that shaped her as an artist.
Reflecting on her evolving relationship with her pop star identity, Ock revealed a surprising personal struggle she faced when transitioning to musical theater. "When I debuted in musicals, I wished people would forget I was Ock Joo-hyun from Fin.K.L," she admitted. However, her perspective has undergone a complete transformation over the years. "But I've realized Fin.K.L is inseparable from my life," she explained, acknowledging how her pop music roots have become an integral part of her artistic identity.
This newfound appreciation for her past has motivated Fin.K.L's current creative endeavors. Ock explained that the group's ongoing project of remaking their classic hit songs serves as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude toward the loyal fans who have supported them throughout their careers. She shared exciting details about recent and upcoming releases, revealing that Lee Hyo-ri participated in the recording of "Feel Your Love" in August, and that the group plans to release "White" as their winter offering.
Addressing one of the most personal aspects of her life, Ock tackled widespread speculation about her marital status. As the only unmarried member among her Fin.K.L bandmates, she has often faced questions and assumptions about her relationship choices. She provided a deeply personal explanation for her hesitation about marriage, tracing it back to a formative childhood experience. "After losing my father when I was young, I had to take on the role of provider and husband to my mother," she shared, explaining how this early responsibility shaped her perspective on relationships and commitment.
When asked about her ideal romantic partner, Ock surprised many with her thoughtful response. She named actress Cho Yeo-jeong as someone she admires, explaining her choice by saying, "I admire someone I can learn from and rely on." This answer revealed her desire for a relationship built on mutual growth and dependable partnership rather than superficial attraction.
Throughout her career, Ock has maintained an extraordinarily close relationship with her fanbase, which has served as a constant source of strength and motivation. She described a touching daily ritual that demonstrates this connection: she calls fan letters her "meal companions" because she makes it a point to read them during every meal. This practice has created an intimate bond between the performer and her supporters that transcends the typical celebrity-fan relationship.
One particularly moving story Ock shared highlighted the profound impact her fans have had on her life. She became visibly emotional while recounting the journey of a fan who bravely disclosed their battle with cancer. This supporter regularly attended Ock's musical performances throughout their treatment, and Ock was able to witness their gradual recovery over time. This experience exemplifies the deep, meaningful connections she has forged with her audience and demonstrates how her art has played a role in providing comfort and hope during difficult times.
