Yujin’s comments about wanting to live abroad came across as both ignorant and dismissive, reflecting a broader mentality often found in South Korea, where many view Western countries—particularly white-majority or formerly white-majority nations—through rose-colored glasses, while simultaneously disparaging their own homeland
Her statements also carried a classist undertone. She treated the idea of “cosplaying” as an ordinary person—working at a café, earning a modest income, and living without fame—as if it were some kind of playful, trivial fantasy. This perspective ignores the realities faced by many Korean immigrants, who historically endured grueling labor. Whether it was the stereotypical Korean dry cleaner or convenience store owner in American cities working 12 hours a day for 7 days a week with no vacations, or earlier Korean laborers cutting sugar canes in Hawaii, immigrant life was defined by sacrifice and hardship. Wealthier Koreans like Yujin, however, are ignorant of such proletarian immigrant experiences. The version of Korean immigrants who appear in films such as Falling Down (1993) or It Could Happen to You (1994) remain far removed from her privileged experience.
Some might argue, “But she was just saying she doesn’t always want the celebrity life.” The problem is that if she genuinely wished to escape fame, she could simply step away from the entertainment industry and return to a quieter existence in a Korean city like Mokpo. After a few years nobody is gonna care she was formerly a idol. Instead, Yujin instead revealed a fantasy of being an anonymous Asian immigrant in a Western country, disregarding the harsher realities that come with such a life—uncertain immigration status, the risk of deportation under administrations like Trump’s, and the ongoing racism faced by Asians throughout many Western societies.
What’s more, Yujin overlooks the substantial advantages that come with being a celebrity. Public figures often receive an outpouring of support in times of crisis. If Yujin’s career fell apart and she found herself destitute, her fans would likely rally to raise funds for her food, housing, and medical care. If she were to confront a serious illness like cancer, millions might offer prayers and financial contributions. By contrast, an “ordinary” immigrant—the exact life Yujin glamorizes—faces isolation and invisibility. Such individuals often struggle with language barriers, disconnection from their roots, lack of support networks, and widespread indifference from the broader society. For her to romanticize being a Korean immigrant is really disgusting to me.
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