Ppippi Band's Lee Yi-jung denies wealthy background, plans 30th-anniversary single and album

Lee Yi-jung sets the record straight — and announces a comeback

Ppippi Band singer Lee Yi-jung appeared on broadcaster Lee Ji-hye's YouTube channel 밉지않은 관종언니 on October 15, in a video billed as the first public update on her life in 30 years. Broadcaster Kim Mi-ryeo joined her on the episode.

Rumours about her background have circulated for years. She shut them down immediately. "I grew up in an ordinary household and have never lived as a wealthy person," she said. When it came to what she actually made during her performing days, the answer was stark: "The only memory I have of earning money is receiving 200,000 won per performance at clubs or concerts."

Ballet, a back injury, and a detour through England

Lee Yi-jung studied ballet at Seoul Arts High School before a lower-back injury in her final year forced a change of direction. She applied to a drama and film department without telling her father — a decision that caused conflict at home — and later went to England to study fashion.

After her singing career ended, she turned to styling to cover living expenses. One job stuck with her: designing the stage costumes for Girls' Generation member Seohyun's solo track Don't Say No. She felt more proud watching Seohyun win first place on a music broadcast and receive her personal thanks than she ever did performing on stage herself. (That detail lands differently when you know she was once the one on stage.)

A single this year, a full album in 2027

Work on her 30th-debut-anniversary project has been running behind schedule. A single before the end of 2026. A full-length album in 2027.