Former Apink member and actress Son Na Eun has spoken honestly about the challenges of moving from the music industry to acting, revealing that the label of being an idol-turned-actress has weighed on her for years.
During a July 22 interview on Ha Ji Young’s YouTube channel, the actress reflected on her personal growth, her career, and the pressure she still feels while working in the entertainment industry.
According to AllKPop, Son appeared on the video titled “Son Na Eun talks about her first meeting with So Ji Sub, getting approached overseas, ‘Agent Kim Reactivated,’ and the real Son Na Eun.”
While discussing her upcoming SBS drama “Agent Kim Reactivated,” she also shared stories about becoming more confident after years of living under constant attention. One of her most personal admissions was that she struggled to do ordinary things by herself even into her mid-to-late twenties.
“Up through my mid-to-late twenties, even taking care of banking or walking alone down the street was difficult,” she said, showing how growing up as a celebrity affected her everyday life.
Son Na Eun Reflects on Life Beyond Apink
Host Ha Ji Young suggested that because Son entered the entertainment world at a young age and was always surrounded by people looking after her, she is only now beginning to live independently. Son agreed, saying, “These days I feel I am living as myself. I feel good, but my sense of responsibility has grown that much, too.”
The actress also spoke openly about the burden of carrying the “idol-turned-actor” label, a topic that continues to follow many performers who change careers.
“I always think people might be evaluating me,” she admitted, adding that starting as a singer made those feelings even stronger, SportsKhan reported.
Although she said the pressure has eased over time, she continues working hard to improve and avoid focusing on public judgment. Son explained that she has also changed the way she connects with others on set. She now makes an effort to greet people first and smile, helping her feel more comfortable during filming.
Looking back, she said she once placed too many limits on herself and now regrets not trying more things when she was younger. The interview also included memories of meeting her “Agent Kim Reactivated” co-star So Ji Sub for the first time.
Son recalled being impressed during the script reading because she had admired his work for years. She also laughed while revealing that she and several cast members, including So Ji Sub, are introverts despite appearing confident on screen.
Son Na Eun debuted with Apink in 2011 before leaving the group in 2022 to focus fully on acting.