Korean Stars Open Up: The Struggle to Say No in the Spotlight

We all rely on each other – that’s what makes us human. But sometimes, saying “no” is essential for our well-being. However, some celebrities, known as “Yes Girls” or “Yes Guys,” struggle to set boundaries and find it difficult to turn down requests, even when it strains them. Let’s look at a few stars who fall into this category.

On the preview for the 19th episode of the SBS talk show “Strong Heart VS,” former announcer Park Ji Yoon intrigued viewers with her story ” The Fine Line Between a Genius and a Fool,” which outlines her experience with a previous relationship.

Park surprised everyone when she admitted her struggle to avoid romantic advances. “If someone asks me out,” she confessed, “I just can’t say no!” This led to playful teasing from Jeon Hyun Moo, who called her a “pushover.”

Park isn’t alone in her struggle to say no. On March 12, actress Moon Ga Young revealed on her appearance on the YouTube show “BDNS” that she used to be known as a “Yes Girl,” sparking conversation about the challenges of setting boundaries.

Moon confessed, “I’d rather be uncomfortable than make others uncomfortable.” She added, “Sometimes there are situations where I have to say no, so I’m trying to practice as much as possible.”

Comedian Park Na Rae knows the struggle of saying no all too well. During an appearance on Channel A’s “Dr. Oh’s Golden Clinic” last March, she left everyone stunned by confessing she once embarked on a grueling streak of 40 consecutive drinking appointments. The revelation came about when the cast discussed their own difficulties refusing requests.

Reflecting on that intense period, Park jokingly compared it to a “multi-level marketing scheme” where people keep getting pulled into social gatherings. “One person brings another, and before you know it, you’re making plans to meet up again the next day,” she explained, drawing laughter from the cast. “I almost reached ‘diamond level’ at that rate!”

Singer and actor Lee Seung Gi also struggles to set boundaries. During a 2021 appearance on SBS’s “Master in the House,” he admitted, “If the vibes are good or I’m feeling happy, I just can’t say no! I always find myself promising to help.”

“There was a time I traveled with Lee Seo-jin,” Lee said. “If he liked something, I’d buy it on the spot! It was hard to resist because I enjoyed his company.” He laughed, “There have been times when I went overboard, even when I had the opportunity to say no.”