Song Hye-kyo Breaks Silence After 23 Years: Her 5-Year Journey to Overcoming Rumors and Finding Inner Peace

For the first time in 23 years, Song Hye-kyo appeared on a variety talk show, sharing her struggles with persistent rumors and the steps she took to regain her peace of mind.

The actress made a rare appearance on the January 8 episode of tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block (You Quiz)', where she candidly addressed the toll rumors have taken on her. "There are so many rumors about me that even I don’t know where they come from," she said. "Sometimes, during interviews or meetings with people I’m not familiar with, they ask me about things based on these rumors. It’s upsetting," she added.

Having spent decades in the entertainment industry, Song Hye-kyo admitted she has grown used to such challenges but revealed there’s one thing she can never tolerate. "I can handle it when it’s about me, but when it involves my family, it breaks my heart," she said, expressing her deep love and protectiveness for her family. While she understands that rumors come with the nature of her profession, she confessed that, as a human being, there were times when they caused her significant pain.

One person who helped her during these difficult times was renowned screenwriter Noh Hee-kyung. Song recalled the pivotal advice she received: "You need to learn how to love yourself." Noh’s words resonated deeply: "When you are your first priority, you’ll be able to give more love to others and see the world in a better light."

Song admitted that prioritizing herself was a challenge at first. "I had never put myself first. I was always second, even to myself," she revealed. However, she began taking small steps toward self-love, starting her mornings by setting intentions for the day and ending each evening by listing ten things she was grateful for. Remarkably, she kept up this practice every day for five years.

Her dedication paid off. Song shared that she finally found inner peace last year, a transformation that drew admiration from fans and viewers alike.

Perhaps this shift in mindset explains her recent bold choices in acting. Song shared her thoughts on goals and the future, saying, "I don’t dwell on the past or the future much. The present is what matters most. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed more diverse roles coming my way. I’ve also learned what to pursue and what to let go of. If I focus on living fully in the moment, I believe a good future will follow."

Her upcoming project, 'The Black Nuns', reflects her adventurous spirit. Song is set to play Sister Yunia, a nun willing to do whatever it takes to save a boy possessed by an evil spirit, even if it means engaging in forbidden rituals. The role marks a striking departure from her previous work, signaling yet another daring transformation for the actress.