Choi Yoojung (IOI) shares candid thoughts on idol income and 'Produce 101' experience

23 Jun 2026, 13:35 by TelloWoo · allkpop

Choi Yoojung (IOI) recently shared candid insights into the financial realities of the K-pop industry and her experiences during 'Produce 101'.

On June 23, Choi Yoojung appeared as a guest on the YouTube channel '인생84' (Life84), hosted by Kian84. During their conversation, Kian84 asked the idol, who has been active for nearly a decade, if she earns a substantial income.

Choi Yoojung responded honestly, stating, "It's not easy to make a profit. Unless you're incredibly successful, it seems it's not easy." When Kian84 pointed out her achievements, including placing 3rd on 'Produce 101', releasing solo albums, and performing in musicals, she playfully asked, "Did I?"

She also looked back on her time on 'Produce 101', recalling that she and the other contestants were unaware of the show's immense popularity until after it concluded, as they were not allowed to use their phones. Choi Yoojung even recounted a humorous anecdote of giving snacks to students on a field trip through a window screen in exchange for briefly borrowing a phone.

Choi Yoojung further explained that she only learned 'PICK ME' had aired after receiving her phone back five days later, finding it flooded with messages from friends surprised to see her in the center. Fans can look forward to her second solo single, 'Perfect Target', set to be released on June 30.