Lee Guk-joo Shares About Assault Trauma and Fear of Public Transport in Japan
Comedian Lee Guk-joo recently shared shocking details about her long-standing fear of public transportation, rooted in traumatic experiences during her college years in Korea. The revelations came through a candid vlog uploaded on June 10 to her YouTube channel, where she documents her daily life in Tokyo, Japan.
Titled “A Lucky Day in Tokyo. No House Keys, No Kelp for Raccoons?! 30-Level Spicy Challenge! The Reason Lee Guk-joo Can’t Ride Public Transport,” the video chronicles a day in the comedian’s life, beginning with a mishap—losing her house keys. After retrieving them with the help of a real estate agent and spending ₩100,000 KRW (approx. 74 USD) on a taxi, Lee confessed her hesitation toward using subways. “I’m kind of scared of subways,” she admitted.
The fear stems from traumatic incidents during her first year of college. “I was riding a bus when a woman bumped into my foot. I said it was okay, but she suddenly screamed, ‘You crazy b***,’ and slammed my head into the bus pole,”* Lee recalled. “I was hit so hard I was completely dazed.”
Just a week later, another incident occurred. After giving up her seat for an elderly person on the same bus route, Lee was harassed and eventually had her bag taken. “They tried to lure me to a karaoke room,” she said. “I was only 20—I just ran away.”
These experiences left her traumatized. “Since then, I developed a fear of enclosed spaces and bumping into strangers. I gradually avoided buses and subways,” she said. However, now living in Tokyo, Lee acknowledged that relying on taxis is not a long-term solution. “I think it’s time I learn to ride the subway,” she concluded.
Despite her fears, Lee bravely challenged herself and successfully used Tokyo’s subway system just days later. “I’m actually good at things when I try. I just never had the chance before. If I do it, I can do it well—I just hadn’t tried,” she said proudly.
Lee Guk-joo continues to connect with fans by sharing her personal growth and everyday experiences abroad, proving once again that vulnerability can be a powerful form of strength.
