Regarding this, leader Chu So-jung (Exy) clarified “Personally, I don’t consider it an ‘eight-member reorganization’. We are still a 10-member group”, expressing her deep affection for the team. Despite disbandment rumors that surfaced in November last year, Exy firmly denied them, urging fans to await their reunion.
Exy debuted as the leader and main rapper of WJSN in February 2016. On December 19, 2024, she sat down for an interview at the Ten Asia headquarters in Seoul, where she reflected on her career and personal growth. While she has showcased her talents under her stage name Exy, she has recently been focusing on her acting career under her real name Chu So-jung.
Currently, Exy is still living in a dorm with fellow members Dawon and Eunseo. She said, “Having experienced tough times living alone after moving to Seoul, being with my members feels precious and makes me happy. Even during mundane days, their presence brings laughter. Plus, housing prices in Seoul are expensive (laugh).”
Exy also spoke about fellow members Bona, Eunseo and Luda, who are pursuing acting careers. “There have been times when we auditioned for the same roles. Nowadays, we audition for roles that suit our individual characters, so overlap is less frequent.”
“When we did audition for the same project, I never thought about competing against them. Instead, I just wanted at least one of us to succeed. We always believed that the decision was based on who fit the role better, not because one of us was superior. That’s why we genuinely celebrated each other’s successes.”
One song that holds special meaning for Exy and fans alike is WJSN’s “As You Wish”. Despite being released over five years ago, it continues to chart at the top during the New Year season. “The end of the year often brings anxiety and reflection. I used to dread it, but seeing ‘As You Wish’ become a source of hope for so many has changed my perspective. Watching people find comfort and make wishes with this song has been deeply meaningful and healing for me.”
Reflecting on her personal growth, Exy shared, “In my twenties, I couldn’t see what truly mattered. That’s natural at that age, but it’s very different now in my thirties. Back then, I didn’t know myself well and often lost my sense of direction. If I could talk to my younger self, I’d say, ‘It’s okay to try everything. Things won’t be as bad as you fear.’ I regret being overly strict with myself, but I believe all those experiences helped me grow into the mature person I am today.”
