Xiyeon Reflects on PRISTIN’s Disbandment: No Regrets, Still Go Drinking with Members
Recently, Park Si-yeon (also known as Xiyeon), who transitioned to acting after PRISTIN disbanded in 2019, shared her sentiments about her time as an idol in an interview with TenAsia
“After spending nine years at one company (Pledis), experiencing everything from debut to disbandment, I wanted to focus on just one thing. Now that I’ve moved forward, I have no regrets or lingering attachments to the past. My mindset is, ‘I tried it, and that’s enough,’ which makes me feel at peace”, the former idol said, adding, “I have no regrets about my singing career. Honestly, if I were to dance now, I’d probably be clumsy”.
She then recalled the path of her career, sharing, “One day I found myself dancing, and the next I was on ‘Produce 101’. (laughs) After the group disbanded, I wanted to pursue something where I could still be loved by the public, and acting came to mind.”
Having endured nine years as a trainee and spent two years as a PRISTIN member, Park Si-yeon became known among fans for her resilience. Despite her hardships, she radiated bright energy throughout the interview, even though her MBTI type, INTP, might suggest a more introverted personality. She explained, “When I take personality tests, my traits often come out balanced, and my results frequently change.”
According to Park Si-yeon, she prefers “deep, close relationships” and shared fond memories of her school years, despite frequently leaving early for ‘Produce 101’.
“I treasure the memories I made during my school days. I’m still closest with my friends from back then,” she proudly added.
In November 2023, she signed with S.A.L.T. Entertainment and has since been actively working. Recently, she appeared on “King of Mask Singer”, stepping onto the stage for the first time in a while.
“I was so nervous,” she admitted, adding, “Back when I performed with PRISTIN, I never felt nervous thanks to the members. It made me realize how much I leaned on them.”
While she misses her former group members, Si-yeon said, “It’s hard to gather everyone since some are overseas, but those of us who can meet up often go out for drinks together”, before revealing that her drinking capacity is about 1.5 to 2.5 bottles of soju.
Park Si-yeon also opened up about the physical toll of her idol days, stating, “I suffered from severe herniated discs and underwent two ankle surgeries. Dancing from such a young age had a big impact. Now that I don’t use my body as much, I feel perfectly fine.”
Asked about emotional hardships, she jokingly said, “I don’t even know where to begin. I’d need a drink for that,” but emphasized, “I don’t dwell on the past.”
Known as the “Pledis Princess,” she described her departure from the agency as amicable.
“It ended really well,” she said, adding, “People still call me ‘princess’ wherever I go. Even my new agency treats me so kindly.” Laughing, she clarified, “My friends don’t call me that because they adore me—it’s just a nickname. At home, I’m more of a tyrant.”
Despite living away from her family for a long time, Park Si-yeon said her parents fully support her decisions. “My family trusts me. I usually think things through on my own and tell them after I’ve decided. They always say, ‘If you think it’s right, we believe in you.’ Although I’m not naturally independent, I try to stay strong because relying on others too much would make me weak”, the idol-turned-actress said.
Reflecting on her journey, Park Si-yeon said, “I’m happy. Being appreciated by others for my efforts and achievements is so precious and meaningful. I think I made the right choices. Even if I could turn back time, I’d make the same decisions.”
Finally, Si-yeon concluded by expressing gratitude to her fans, “To the ones who’ve supported me since my child actor days, I can’t express everything I want to say, so I’ll keep it short but heartfelt: I miss you.”
On the other hand, after the disbandment of Pristin, Si-yeon drew attention for appearing in a rather sexual and controversial interactive K-drama.
