Ryu Hyoyoung, the sister of ex-T-ara member Ryu Hwayoung, recently spoke out about the bullying allegations surrounding the K-pop group and a controversial text message incident.
On November 11, Ryu Hyoyoung addressed her followers on social media, apologizing for any distress caused and explaining her intention to discuss her sister’s experiences. She recounted how, at around 20 years old, both she and her sister had moved to Seoul without any adult support, making them each other’s only source of comfort. Hyoyoung revealed that she was shocked to learn from Hwayoung that she was being bullied by other T-ara members and expressed feelings of desperation and loneliness, leading to the sending of a distressing text message.
Hyoyoung reflected on the decision to send the text, admitting that she felt foolish and still regrets it. Although she previously apologized for the message sent to former member Ah-rum, she continues to feel remorse. Despite being just 20 years old, she claimed she feared for her sister's well-being, feeling compelled to act in a way she thought was protective and caring.
Following a recent television appearance by former T-ara's agency head, Kim Kwang-soo, the bullying controversy resurfaced after more than a decade. Kim detailed how Hwayoung’s injury required other members to rearrange their performances, asserting the group's need for an apology that never came, which led to mounting tension. He described tearing up contracts for both sisters amid fears for their safety after their family suggested making all conversations public.
In response to Kim’s claims, Ryu Hwayoung denied ever playing the victim and revealed her own experiences of abuse and intense verbal maltreatment within the group. She disclosed that she had previously gathered evidence to prove her claims but was persuaded by Kim to refrain from holding a press conference, asserting that it was the best decision under the circumstances. Having remained silent for 12 years without receiving an apology, Hwayoung expressed her ongoing struggle with the memory of her experiences.
As the new developments brought past bullying allegations back into the spotlight, Ryu Hyoyoung reaffirmed her support for her sister, maintaining that Hwayoung did indeed face bullying during her time with T-ara. She reiterated her protective instincts that led to the controversial text message incident as a response to her sister’s distress. Hyoyoung's reflections continue to shed light on the significant emotional challenges faced by K-pop idols in their professional careers.