Girl’s Day member Hyeri recently opened up about an extended break she took from her career, during which she did not leave her home for a full year.

According to Hyeri, who spoke on the March 22nd episode of her YouTube series “Hyeri’s Club,” the hiatus involved a period of intentional self-isolation. Recalling the experience, Hyeri stated, “I was stuck at home doing nothing for a year.”

The conversation about hiatuses arose when Hyeri asked guest Kim Chung Ha if she experienced anxiety during her own time off. While Chung Ha admitted to feeling anxious, she explained it stemmed from a desire to return to work. “I did, but I wanted to feel that anxiety,” Chung Ha said.

She further elaborated on the challenges of adjusting to life outside the structured routine of promotions and breaks, stating, “At some point, there were so many moments when I felt stupid and dumb… I was used to the cycle of [promotions and hiatus], but when I was away from the agency, I felt like I was a mute.”

Hyeri’s perspective differed slightly. She explained that breaks, even involuntary ones, were crucial for her well-being. “Actually, I need a break period like that whether voluntarily or not,” Hyeri shared. “If I don’t have the time to empty my mind, I can’t relax. I worked for a long time, and I took a bit of time off on purpose. Then I started to work harder on the next job.”

Hyeri’s decision to prioritize mental health by taking a year-long hiatus highlights the demanding nature of the K-pop industry. While some celebrities, like Chung Ha, might experience anxiety during breaks due to their work ethic, Hyeri’s experience demonstrates the importance of creating space for rest and rejuvenation.

As of today, March 23rd, 2024, Hyeri appears to be quite active. Her YouTube channel, “Hyeri’s Club,” is ongoing, and there is no indication of any upcoming hiatus plans. It is likely that, as she mentioned, this period of self-isolation has allowed her to return to work with renewed energy.