5 things to know about K-pop star Yoona, Girls’ Generation singer and Korean actress
Im Yoon-ah, better known as Yoona, is a household name way beyond her native South Korea. The actress and singer has been a fixture in the entertainment world since her acting debut more than 15 years ago; now she makes headlines at the centre of K-pop sensation Girls’ Generation.
As she turns 30 on 30 May, here are some things to know about one of Asia-Pacific’s most influential stars.
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1. She was on screen 200 times before making it big
Before her success with Girls’ Generation, Yoona was on screen more than 200 times in CFs (commercials), dramas, movies and music videos. According to K-pop culture website Soompi, her numerous failures taught her, “Having confidence is important. Even if you’re not good at something, if you approach it in a confident manner, then that builds up to become a good experience.”
2. She is a pro baker
While most of us are spending lockdown watching Netflix and lazing on the sofa, Yoona is busy baking treats like this artistic-looking pizza bread.
Her indulgent yuzu pound cake got more than 500,000 likes! We stan a queen that can do it all.
3. Hold the front page: she’ll soon play a journalist
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We've seen Yoona star in dramas like The K2 and The King In Love, as well as movies such as Exit and Goodbye Ani.
Fortunately, fans won’t have to wait long to see her back in action. On 25 March, JTBC confirmed that the leading actress will play a journalist in a drama with the working title Hush.
4. She wants to try new things in her 30s
According to the Korean calendar, Yoona turned 30 last year.
When asked about her plans for the next decade, she expressed her desire to try new things. In an interview with Soompi, she said, “I want it to be a time where I can do many things I want to do and hope that I’ll have a consistent energy that allows me to do so.”
First thing on her list? She passed a Chinese language test.
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5. She has a kind heart
Besides having multiple talents, Yoona also has a kind heart.
Last February, she donated 100 million won (US$82,000) to the Community Chest of Korea. Her hard-earned money was used to purchase hand sanitisers and masks for health care workers during the coronavirus crisis.
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