EXID’s Hani Opens Up About Postponed Wedding and Emotional Struggles: “I Wanted to Run Away”
Appearing on the July 7 episode of MBN’s “Oh Eun-young’s Stay”, Hani, whose real name is Ahn Hee-yeon, surprised the cast by joining as a guest in the show’s second season. Greeted with warmth by Dr. Oh Eun-young and actress Ko So-young, Hani shared candid reflections on her career, personal growth, and the emotional burden she has been carrying.
Hani and Yang Jae-woong were initially set to marry in September 2024, but their plans were put on hold after a woman in her 30s—referred to as “Patient A”—died while admitted to W Jin Hospital in Bucheon, where Yang serves as medical director. The National Forensic Service later ruled the cause of death as acute intestinal obstruction, but Yang had initially cited diet pill overdose in media interviews, sparking public controversy.
The case grew more complex when Yang appeared before the National Assembly’s Health and Welfare Committee in October 2024, denying any medical malpractice. This April, the Gyeonggi Southern Police Agency’s Special Investigation Unit executed a search and seizure at the hospital, further delaying any resolution.
On the show, Hani opened up about how the situation impacted her mental health:
“I experienced a deep sense of depression for the first time. I couldn’t go on living like that. I felt overwhelmed and even wanted to run away.”
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She added that the uncertainty and scrutiny led her to question her own choices and ability to manage public perception:
“I want to stop worrying about how others see me, but I feel stuck in an environment where I can’t help but care.”
Having debuted as a K-pop idol at a young age, Hani shared how fame isolated her from the real world:
“When my contract ended, I realized I knew nothing about real life. I had been living like a frog in a well. I’ve learned that life doesn’t always follow the plans we make. And no matter how much I want to control things, I have to learn to let go.”
Hani’s appearance on “Oh Eun-young’s Stay” resonated with viewers for its raw honesty and emotional vulnerability. Her journey reflects the challenges faced by public figures whose personal and professional lives are often under intense scrutiny.