"I plan to leave my beloved past behind here and step forward into my next chapter"

Former BBGirls member Youjoung has addressed her “sudden” departure from the K-pop girl group in a new Instagram post.

Earlier this week, BBGirls announced that long-time member Youjoung would be leaving the group after eight years. The news came shortly after the quartet left Warner Music Korea following “after long and sufficient discussions about future activities”, and subsequently establishing their own label BBGirls Company.

Youjoung has since spoken out about what she calls her “sudden” decision to leave BBGirls in a statement on Instagram. “I’ve chosen to pursue my endeavours in the industry not as a part of BBGirls, but under my own name, Nam You-joung, following the conclusion of our contract with Warner Music Korea,” she wrote per SBS Star. 

“It was something that I’ve contemplated hundreds and thousands of times,” she added. “I’ve always been filled with fears and worries, with a small heart. I’ve been afraid of being a burden to someone and, at the same time, afraid of moving forward alone.”

“However, from now on, I plan to leave my beloved past behind here and step forward into my next chapter,” Youjoung continued, saying that she will continue to “sincerely support the future of BBGirls that Minyoung, Eunji and Yuna will create”.

“I’ll always be here, so don’t worry. I’m truly, truly grateful for everything. I love you all,” the idol concluded.