EXID’s Hyerin, a beloved member of the iconic K-Pop girl group, is captivating fans not just with her performances but with her incredible success in a surprising new chapter: the culinary world! It’s been revealed that Hyerin has opened her own taco restaurant in Seoul, and it’s quickly become a bustling hotspot, generating impressive monthly sales figures that have shocked and delighted fans.
The public first got an intimate glimpse into Hyerin’s entrepreneurial journey on August 14, when the popular YouTube channel Human Story released a video titled “Why successful girl group EXID’s Hyerin works at a restaurant.” The heartwarming feature showed Hyerin fully immersed in her new role at her taco eatery in Anguk, Seoul. Wearing an apron, she was seen warmly greeting customers, efficiently managing orders, meticulously preparing delicious food, and working seamlessly alongside her dedicated employees. Her hands-on approach and evident passion for the business left a strong impression.
A K-Pop Idol’s Culinary Triumph: Sales Revealed
Since its grand opening in March, Hyerin’s restaurant has been successfully operating for about five months, quickly establishing itself as a popular spot. When discussing its remarkable performance, Hyerin candidly shared the impressive numbers. “On average, monthly sales are around 140 million won,” she disclosed, which translates to approximately $100,000 USD. This incredible figure highlights the restaurant’s immediate success. However, Hyerin also provided a realistic look at the finances, adding that after significant expenses such as rent and labor costs, approximately 40 million won (around $29,000) remains as profit. She emphasized the demanding nature of running such a successful venture, acknowledging that she relies on help for its daily operations.
From Stage to Kitchen: The Drive for Stability
Hyerin’s bold decision to venture into the restaurant business was deeply rooted in the inherent unpredictability of the entertainment industry, a struggle many idols face. “Broadcasting has seasons when you’re active. It’s not a job where you can work simply because you want to,” she explained, highlighting the challenges of consistent work. She also noted the inconsistent income. “I started looking for a way to have a more stable life, and since I’ve always liked the restaurant business, I naturally ended up pursuing it.”
She further revealed how external circumstances dramatically impacted her career. Opportunities to work in China were thwarted by the THAAD controversy, and plans for Japan were derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. “All those opportunities to make money disappeared. I didn’t earn as much as people might think,” Hyerin reflected honestly. The evolving landscape of advertising, with the rise of influencers, also meant fewer traditional endorsement opportunities for entertainers.
A period of profound introspection, marked by a feeling of directionlessness, ultimately spurred her to action. With few scheduled activities, Hyerin found herself waking as late as 3 or 4 p.m. “There was no reason for me to get up,” she admitted. “I had lost my dream, but I needed to dream again. I started wondering what I had ever done besides singing and dancing, and what I could actually do on my own.”
Rediscovering Purpose Beyond the Stage
This quest for a new purpose led Hyerin to take a part-time job at a restaurant during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Working alongside people from diverse backgrounds proved to be a transformative experience, offering a fresh perspective and helping her regain a vital sense of direction. Although she initially worried about public perception—an idol working a regular job or running a restaurant—Hyerin bravely chose to shed those concerns, prioritizing her personal growth and stability.
Most significantly, this hands-on experience instilled in her a profound confidence: the assurance that she could build a fulfilling life and successful career beyond the familiar realms of singing and dancing. However, Hyerin was quick to reassure fans that her entrepreneurial success does not mean she has left her K-Pop roots behind. Now celebrating her 15th year since her debut, she continues her vibrant activities as a cherished member of EXID, while also showcasing her talents as a DJ and a captivating musical actress. Her inspiring story is a powerful testament to resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of new passions.
