Many fans feel as though these days, celebrity encounters often seem scripted and distant, so a recent candid and unexpected moment between two former IZ*ONE members, Kang Hyewon and Jo Yuri, definitely brought a fresh of breath air to the K-Pop community.
| @hyemhyemu/Instagram
Hyewon, through a recent update on Bubble, shared a shocking encounter that took place on the street, which turned out to be an unexpected reunion with her fellow group member Yuri.
| @zo__glasss/Instagram
In the messages, Hyewon revealed she was unexpectedly grabbed by a masked woman as she was walking on the street. The former IZ*ONE star shared she was distraught after looking at the masked person who grabbed her arm.
Yesterday, I was just walking, and someone suddenly grabbed my arm. So, I turned around like ‘What the…’ and it was a girl. We were [both] in masks, so we stared at each other for three seconds…
— Hyewon
| @hyemhyemu/Instagram
Though scary at first, this unexpected encounter turned out to be heartwarming after Hyewon revealed what the masked person said to her after their initial shock.
Suddenly she was like, ‘Kang Hye Won?’ And after that, I was like, ‘Jo Yu Ri?’ It was Yuri, LOL.”
— Hyewon
| @zo__glasss/Instagram
Fans were delighted to hear the anecdote, as they are always looking forward to sweet encounters between former IZ*ONE members.
| @hyemhyemu/Instagram
During their time in IZ*ONE, a project group formed through the Mnet competition show Produce 48, Hyewon and Yuri developed a friendship that resonated with fans for its sincerity and warmth.
Their bond was evident in their interactions on and off the stage, showcasing a chemistry that transcended professional friendship. This latest story is a testament to the enduring friendship that exists between them, even after the girl group’s disbandment in April 2021.
| @zo__glasss/Instagram
The story of their unexpected street encounter is not just a funny incident but also proof of the deep connection they share. Despite being masked and amidst the hustle of the streets, they could identify each other, an act that speaks volumes about the familiarity and bond they have nurtured over the years.
I love Yuri and Hyewon’s friendship so much, they are so adorable and sweet with each other @picshyewon pic.twitter.com/7KTv4HkhNL
— jo yuri pics (@archivejoyuri) November 5, 2019
Their continued friendship post-IZ*ONE is significant, considering the nature of project groups in the K-Pop industry, where members often part ways to pursue individual careers.
The reality of these temporary group formations often leads to members losing touch. However, Hyewon and Yuri seem to have successfully survived the fallout — as have many other IZ*ONE members.
