On the 300th episode of tvN’s You Quiz on the Block aired on July 2, singer Lee Hyori gave a rare and heartfelt interview that resonated deeply with viewers. Appearing alongside writer Park Chun-hyu of Maybe Happy Ending, the iconic star reflected on her career, personal growth, and the quiet power of love.
Hyori admitted she’s still receiving commercial and variety show offers but confessed to questioning her artistic evolution. “I wonder if I’m really growing musically,” she said, revealing she’s recently been reconnecting with vocalists like Kim Bum-soo and Kim Dong-ryul. “Even vocal legends train every day. It made me think, ‘Who am I to not practice?'”
Looking back, she shared how “10 Minutes” represented her visual prime, while “Miss Korea” marked her creative peak. “Writing, composing, and directing that music video gave me confidence. It was proof that my songs could be hits.”
Reflecting on life post-marriage and her role in Hyori’s Homestay, she added, “I think another prime era is coming.” To which host Yoo Jae-suk responded, “It seems like you’ve always been in your prime,” prompting Hyori to muse, “I think everyone experiences their prime every 5 to 10 years. If you don’t give up and wait, it’ll come again.”
The interview also touched on her marriage to musician Lee Sang Soon, revealing an intimate reason behind their move to Jeju Island. While many assumed it was for rest, Hyori shared, “We loved each other but were afraid outside noise might shake that love. We moved to protect it.”
She explained, “At the time, I thought it was just to rest. But looking back, I realize we needed to step away from external distractions to preserve what we had.” Lee Sang-soon, known for his calm nature, even asked her, “Are you at peace now?” when suggesting a move back to Seoul.
Hyori also opened up about past fears of losing love, saying she often fell out of it after 2–3 years in relationships. But Lee Sang-soon’s relaxed, grounded presence—and their mutual decision to escape media pressure—helped them defy that pattern. On Seoul, she added, “Now I really like it—it feels calm. But back then, I left because I was completely worn out. That decision helped me be where I am today.”
Lee Hyori’s candid reflections on growth, love, and self-awareness left fans moved, proving once again why she remains one of Korea’s most beloved and enduring stars.