Former AOA Star Seolhyun Reveals Why She Abandoned Idol Career for Acting, Joins Netflix Drama with Song Hye Kyo


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Seolhyun, who made her debut in 2012 both as an idol with girl group AOA and as an actress in My Daughter Seoyoung, has established herself as one of the most accomplished idol-turned-actresses in the Korean entertainment industry.

Since AOA released their 6th mini album New Moon in November 2019, Seolhyun’s on-stage activities have, however, come to a complete halt.

Former AOA Member Prioritizes Acting Over Idol Activities

In an interview with Newsis, Seolhyun addressed her extended absence from idol activities.


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“I’m becoming more and more sincere about acting. I can’t say I’ll never return to being an idol, but for now, I plan to focus on acting,” Seolhyun stated.

She emphasized the importance of consistency in her acting career, noting that taking long breaks affects her connection with the craft.

“After finishing a project, I feel like I understand acting a little better. But if I take a break, that feeling fades. So I think it’s important to keep acting consistently without taking long breaks,” she explained.

Seolhyun also shared insights on the differences between her idol and acting careers.

“When I was active as an idol, I could take the lead in my work. I could be involved in structuring the album, creating it, and deciding its release timing. But as an actress, I can’t work unless I’m chosen. I have to be called upon to take a role, and I need to adjust to the filming schedule,” she revealed.

She added that while this initially made her feel uneasy, she has since learned to manage her fears and truly rest.

Upcoming Netflix Drama and Heartwarming Fan Encounter

Seolhyun recently impressed viewers with her performance as Ji Young, a ghost, in Disney+’s Light Shop. Her chilling portrayal in the webtoon-based mystery horror K-Drama received significant praise from audiences.

Her career continues to flourish as she prepares for her role in the upcoming Netflix series Slowly, Intensely (tentative title). The drama depicts the journey of individuals pursuing success in the Korean entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1980s.


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The project features an impressive cast including Song Hye Kyo, Gong Yoo, Cha Seung Won, and Lee Ha Nui.

On 25 Mar 2025, Seolhyun posted several photos on her social media with the caption “Date in Gangneung with my baby.”

The images showed her picking up seashells with a child on the beach and gazing at the ocean.

Image: Instagram (s2seolhyuns2)

She clarified in her post, “He’s not my son. He’s the youngest fan I met by chance.”

One photo captured her lifting the child onto her shoulders, both smiling brightly.


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Fans responded with comments including “This combo is so healing” and “She’s totally the next fan club president.”

With her current success as an actress and anticipated performance in her forthcoming Netflix drama, Seolhyun looks forward to showcasing new aspects of her talent through future projects.