Yves is well acquainted with the spotlight, having made her debut seven years ago as part of the globally recognized K-pop group LOONA. She left her hometown to pursue her dreams despite her mother's objections and later stood shoulder to shoulder with her fellow members in a historic legal battle against their management agency, demonstrating her unwavering resilience repeatedly.
After a year of rest, she is now reemerging as a solo artist, equipped with fresh clarity, sound, confidence, and tranquility—but this time, she's navigating the journey on her own.
We connect over Zoom, and the endearingly shy Ha Sooyoung—who performs as Yves—greets me warmly from beneath a purple hoodie, her soft voice and sparkling eyes inviting us to commence our conversation.
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What is something you learned about yourself in 2024, and what aspirations do you have for 2025?
I discovered that I am braver than I initially believed. 2024 marked my solo debut, and prior to that, I was not in the best mental state. However, I now possess significantly more confidence. I pushed through the challenges and aim to carry that forward into 2025.
I feel confidence is crucial for achieving goals. How did you find it within yourself?
I had considerable time alone after LOONA disbanded. Before that, I lacked the opportunity to truly reflect on my identity and understand my desires. During the year between LOONA and my current endeavors, I was finally able to do just that. I ceased trying to be everything at once—I rested, concentrated on my strengths, and rebuilt myself.
I'm also grateful because my friends surrounded me with unconditional love during that time.
Reflecting on the essence of who we truly are, what is it like to be in your 20s living in South Korea? What are some of your favorite activities?
Hmm, my 20s… It’s fascinating because the performer Yves and my personal life as Ha Sooyoung are quite different. As Yves, I don’t get much sleep, and it’s challenging to maintain motivation amid the fast pace. I seldom have the chance to pause and consider the present or what lies ahead.
Conversely, as Ha Sooyoung—my real name—I can stop, observe, and find inspiration in the details and beauty around me. That’s why I enjoy photography—I can capture those fleeting moments and preserve them as memories.
Honestly, sometimes it feels more enjoyable than life as Yves.
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I share your appreciation for photography; it truly is essential to take a moment and embrace our surroundings. While many of us became acquainted with you through LOONA, I’m curious about when your passion for music and dance first ignited?
I believe it’s in my DNA. I used to sing and dance spontaneously all the time. Reflecting back, I remember drawing a picture of 'My Dream' in kindergarten, depicting myself with a microphone. However, at that time, my mother wasn’t very supportive of my artistic aspirations, so I had to pursue them independently.
I hail from Busan, another city in South Korea, but I relocated to Seoul by myself to follow my dreams. In the back of my mind, I wanted to prove to my mother that I could succeed. Eventually, I debuted in LOONA, which was a transformative experience leading me to where I am today.
How did your experiences in LOONA influence you as an artist as you transitioned to performing solo?
Starting out, I underwent formal training for the first time, which still informs my work today. Due to my initial lack of experience, I was somewhat reserved, so I had to cultivate my boldness, for which I am truly grateful.
Moreover, I developed deep friendships with the other girls in the group. We genuinely cared for each other, teaching me how to be there for others.
Is there a difference between Yves in LOONA and Yves as a solo artist now?
In my mind, I don’t see a distinction. I consider each stage of my journey—starting from my beginnings to LOONA and now—as an evolution of my artistic self. The primary difference lies in my perspective. I definitely have a greater love for myself now, which allows me to overcome more challenges.
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I completely resonate with that. I appreciate how you described each phase as an extension of yourself. We are constantly evolving. With that in mind, what kind of life do you envision for yourself even 30 years from now?
I aspire to be someone who transcends singular expression. I want to capture images, write, and perhaps even act. For me, it’s about sharing my experiences and the genuine emotions that arise from them. I hope that through these expressions, people can truly understand who I am.
There is genuine beauty in sharing our identities and forging connections with others. That’s so significant. You also express yourself quite stylishly through fashion. What goes through your mind when you’re getting ready? Your nails are particularly awesome
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Yves is familiar with the stage, having made her debut seven years ago as part of the 12-member K-pop group known worldwide as LOONA. She relocated from her hometown to