[Trigger Warning: Mentions of Depression and Suicide]
After failing to debut despite training for 11 years, Lee Soomin shared what made her decide to finally quit.
What happened to her after giving up on her dream to become an idol?
Lee Soomin Reveals Why She Quit Trainee Life After 11 Years
Lee Soomin, who was famous as an idol trainee, revealed her recent situation.
On the 10th, she appeared on the YouTube channel “TAEK and JOON” and updated on her status after quitting after 11 years of training.
Soomin was a popular trainee who made her name for appearing in various survival programs, like "K-pop Star 6," "Produce 101," and "MIXNINE."
Despite being recognized for her top-notch vocals and idol skills, she didn't make her debut although she was often selected as a member of pre-debut girl groups.
During the interview, Lee confessed her true feelings about not debuting.
"I was upset. Whenever something good happens to me, I feel like something is taken away. So I developed a bad habit. If I expected too much if I got desperate, things wouldn't work out, so I deliberately asked, 'What's going to happen?' Because I was thinking these negative thoughts, I became depressed."
Lee Soomin's frustrations and failures took a toll on her mental health, which is the main reason she ultimately decided to give up.
"I felt relieved when I finally quit my trainee life. Because it was so hard and it wasn't just 'a little tired,' but it seemed like I was just losing meaning in life, and I was becoming more and more broken. I really thought I should stop. I haven't been able to listen to music or watch TV for a while. I couldn't take it."
She continued:
"Back then, when I hear a song, I imagine standing on stage. But now, I don't want to imagine that when I listen to music. It's all over now anyway, and I won't be able to be on stage. I was very depressed, and I didn't want to live. My family is also anxious, so when I go out to exercise, they follow me.
But even though I was thinking bad thoughts, it felt like a waste to end my life. I'm still young and have a lot of things I want to do, and this isn't the end of my life. On days when I'm really tired, I read the comments once in a while."
Lee Soomin Pursues College, Musical Acting After Quitting Trainee Life
After retiring as an idol trainee in 2022, Soomin tried working as a store employee for Zara, and she also became an English teacher/language specialist after her mother suggested she take the TOEIC.
She then got 970 points and Soomin decided to pursue her college and entered the Dongduk Women's University. Her major is International Business Administration.
"I wanted to have a more professional job even if I had a second job, not just in the art sector."
Lee Soomin also revealed that she is happier now as she is able to roam around the streets freely, without worrying that someone will recognize her or if she gains weight.
Although Soomin gave up on becoming an idol, her love for music didn't die out and she decided to pursue musical acting.
"I wanted to show the passion I had when I was young. As I spent a long time as a trainee, I became very confined and dark, but in the past, I was very bright and positive. Even if my appearance is short, I want to give the impression that I am a memorable actress."
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Written by Eunice Dawson.
