DIA's Eunchae opens up about her struggles as an idol on 'Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller'

Actress Kwon Chae-won, formerly of the girl group DIA, has opened up about the struggles she faced in the entertainment industry that she had previously kept to herself. In a preview for the KBS Joy show 'Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller' aired on the 27th, Kwon appeared as a stunning client, sitting down with MCs Seo Jang Hoon and Lee Soo-geun for a candid conversation.

Introducing herself, Kwon began by saying, “I am a former idol. I was in a group called DIA.” Although she showcased her lovely charm under the stage name 'Eunchae' in the group DIA, which debuted in 2016, she faced hidden struggles behind the glamorous stage. She candidly confessed the realistic conflicts she experienced while working in the industry, stating, “I always felt like I was in an ambiguous position, no matter where I went.”

From Idol to Actress: A Record of Unrelenting Challenges

Kwon Chae-won's career has been a series of continuous challenges. Following her time as an idol, she sought a comeback in 2023 by participating in the major SBS audition program 'Universe Ticket.' However, she unfortunately faced elimination. During this process, she declared a fresh start by changing her stage name from her former moniker 'Eunchae' to her real name, Kwon Chae-won. She has since transitioned from the framework of an idol to pursuing a path as an actress.

She has not remained stuck in the regrets of the past. Overcoming the setbacks of the audition program and the trials of transitioning to acting, she revealed specific plans to stand on stage once again. Expressing her determination to broaden her spectrum, Kwon said, “I am even challenging myself with a musical in August to show you who I truly am.” Having moved through being an idol, an audition contestant, and an actress, she is now moving toward a new goal as a musical actress.

Proving Her Vocal Skills on Set and Future Schedule

An unexpected performance took place during the counseling session. While listening to Kwon's story, Seo Jang Hoon and Lee Soo-geun requested an impromptu song, saying, “Do you sing, too? It would be great if you could let us hear it.” Without hesitation, Kwon grabbed the microphone and delivered a live performance, proving her solid vocal abilities that she had kept hidden. It was a moment where she fully demonstrated the talent expected of a former idol.

Kwon Chae-won's appearance, which captures her deep inner thoughts and future endeavors, will air on KBS Joy 'Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller' on August 3 at 8 PM. Interest is growing to see how her story—ranging from memories of her idol days to the realities she faces as an actress and her new goal of tackling musicals—will resonate with viewers.

From 2016 Debut to Audition Challenge

Kwon Chae-won was a member of the girl group DIA, which debuted in 2016. At the time, she used the stage name 'Eunchae.'

In 2023, she participated in the SBS audition program 'Universe Ticket' but was eliminated. Subsequently, she changed her stage name to her real name, Kwon Chae-won.

Inner Thoughts Shared on Set and Future Plans

During the broadcast, Kwon Chae-won directly expressed her struggles regarding her identity. She told the MCs, “I always felt like I was in an ambiguous position, no matter where I went,” venting about the realistic hardships she faced in the entertainment industry.

She also shared her determination to take on new stages. Kwon revealed her future plans, stating, “I am even challenging myself with a musical in August to show you who I truly am.”