From Stage to Salon: Ex-Jewelry Star Ji‑hyun Begins New Journey

Former Jewelry member Lee Ji-hyun has officially opened her own hair salon this week, marking a new beginning while candidly sharing the emotional weight of the moment with fans.

On April 23, Lee Ji-hyun took to social media to announce the opening, writing, “With so much support and congratulations, I’ve finally opened.” She added a personal touch, noting, “It’s such a special day, I even put flowers in my hair,” reflecting both celebration and a sense of occasion.

Emotional opening shaped by fan support

The milestone proved to be more emotional than expected. Lee Ji-hyun revealed that she was moved to tears during the event, attributing it to the overwhelming support she received.

“I think I might be going through menopause,” she wrote candidly, adding that seeing longtime fans travel from afar, along with messages of encouragement, gifts, and flower wreaths from acquaintances, brought her to tears.

She continued by expressing gratitude: “I sincerely thank everyone who came to the opening and congratulated me,” acknowledging the people who supported her journey to this point.

From repeated challenges to a new profession

Lee Ji-hyun’s transition into the beauty industry follows a sustained period of preparation. After earning her national cosmetology license, she began working directly in the field, taking a hands-on role in her new business.

Her certification did not come easily. She reportedly passed the practical exam in March last year after multiple attempts, underscoring the persistence behind her career shift. Just a day before the opening, she had shared updates on the final preparations, inviting followers to visit the space.

The move represents a significant departure from her earlier career. Lee Ji-hyun debuted in 2001 as a member of Jewelry and later became active in television. Over time, she has balanced public life with personal responsibilities, including raising two children on her own.

A second chapter built on resilience

Her story has resonated widely online, with many highlighting not only her career transition but also the resilience behind it. Having navigated personal hardships, including divorce and health-related challenges, her decision to pursue a licensed profession has been viewed as a meaningful reinvention.

Supportive reactions from netizens have continued to follow, with comments praising her determination and describing her journey as inspiring. For many, her opening represents more than a business launch—it reflects a long process of rebuilding and self-development.

Now stepping into a new environment, Lee Ji-hyun shifts from the stage to a hands-on creative role, working directly with clients and shaping a different kind of performance through her craft.

As she begins this new chapter, her message remains rooted in gratitude and perseverance, with the salon opening serving as both a personal milestone and a public reflection of her journey forward.

Jewelry was a first-generation K-pop girl group that debuted in 2001 under Star Empire Entertainment and went through several lineup changes over the years. Its most recognized members include Park Jung-ah, Seo In-young, Lee Ji-hyun, and Kim Eun-jung.