TVXQ’s U-Know Yunho, a legendary figure known for his unmatched passion and dedication in K-Pop, recently opened up about the incredibly difficult circumstances he faced during his trainee days, revealing a shocking truth: he even had to sleep on the streets. His candid confessions on MBC’s variety show The Manager offered a poignant glimpse into the immense sacrifices made by idols on their path to global stardom, resonating deeply with fans.
U-Know Yunho’s Unwavering Discipline & Humble Habits
On the July 18th episode of The Manager, Yunho once again showcased why he’s earned the moniker “Passion King.” His day began with his signature fasted cardio routine, a clear demonstration of his unwavering commitment to self-management. This disciplined approach extends to a heartwarming habit he maintains: collecting coins in a piggy bank. His manager explained that this practice originated during Yunho’s tough trainee period and continues to this day, serving as a constant reminder to never forget his initial mindset and humble beginnings. Yunho himself added, “The goal was to save steadily and use the full amount for something meaningful.”
The Harsh Reality: Sleeping on the Streets During Trainee Days
The conversation soon turned to the grueling reality of his past. Yunho, who moved to Seoul from the provinces to pursue his dream, faced significant financial hurdles. “Since I came up from the provinces, I had to commute back and forth, so I was short on money. I didn’t have a place to live, so I slept on the streets,” he shared, painting a stark picture of his early struggles. He recounted seeking shelter near Seoul Station and in various parks, often initially surviving by utilizing Korean saunas. To support himself and maintain his demanding practice schedule, he also took on multiple part-time jobs.
From Grueling Part-Time Gigs to Global Stardom
Detailing his odd jobs, Yunho revealed, “Snow removal had the highest hourly wage. It was about ₩3,800 KRW (about $2.55 USD) at the time, which was a good amount.” He also recalled the less glamorous work of meticulously cleaning grills and grease traps at a barbecue restaurant, stating, “I spent a lot of time cleaning the grease traps.” Hearing his incredible resilience and work ethic, the cast members on The Manager were filled with admiration, concluding, “Now we understand why he’s such a passionate guy.” Yunho’s powerful story serves as a profound reminder of the relentless dedication and immense personal sacrifices that often underpin the dazzling success of a K-Pop star.
