Former Girl Group Idols and Actresses Turn to Streaming: The Harsh Reality Behind Their New Careers
A new wave of public attention is surrounding several former idols and actresses—not for their latest comeback or drama, but for their surprising transition into the world of BJs (Broadcast Jockeys). With reasons ranging from financial hardship to emotional trauma and a desire for autonomy, stars like Seo Yuri, Riwon, Seo Jisoo, and Somi are now navigating the raw and unpredictable world of livestreaming, sparking mixed reactions from fans and netizens alike.
Seo Yuri: “Reality Is What It Is”
Voice actress and variety star Seo Yuri, known for her work on MBC programs, recently stunned fans when she appeared on an “Excel Broadcast”—a livestream format where female BJs are ranked by viewer donations, often while dressed provocatively. Under the alias “Ronattang,” Seo Yuri danced in a short dress and broke down in tears after receiving a large donation.
Amid backlash, Seo Yuri explained her decision was driven by lingering debt from her marriage to former MBC PD Choi Byung-gil. “Though the debt wasn’t mine to begin with, I feel partially responsible,” she shared. “I’m doing my best to resolve it. This isn’t something I’m proud of, but people shouldn’t shame others just trying to survive.”
Riwon: “I Wanted to Come Out Myself”
Riwon, a contestant on Wavve’s groundbreaking lesbian dating show ToGetHer, also confirmed her history as a BJ, including stints on adult-focused platforms. Candidly admitting to streaming personal content over three separate periods, Riwon revealed her motivation: a painful past relationship where her abusive ex-boyfriend threatened to out her.
“I applied [to ToGetHer] because I wanted to come out myself—not be outed by someone else,” she said. In a May 1 statement, Riwon acknowledged her broadcasts were inappropriate and accepted criticism while reaffirming her identity as “a woman who loves women.”
Seo Jisoo & Somyi: A Shift Toward Connection
Former Lovelyz member Seo Jisoo has also found new footing as a game-streaming BJ since early 2023. “I don’t consider myself a celebrity anymore,” she said. “I just want to connect with people.” When rumors claimed she owned a luxury car, she clarified it was only a temporary rental while hers was in the shop.
Meanwhile, Somyi, formerly of DIA, opened up about her shift to livestreaming after leaving her agency. Appearing on Sisters Attack in 2023, Somyi addressed the stigma surrounding her platform: “I’m not an idol anymore. Yes, I wear sexy clothes and respond to donations—but I’m just trying to build a new life with content based on communication and music.”
These stories shed light on the lesser-seen chapters of former celebrities’ lives—ones marked by reinvention, resilience, and the search for identity beyond the K-pop spotlight. While the BJ path may come with public judgment and personal sacrifice, for many, it represents a second chance in a world that often leaves little room for recovery after fame.
