From Playgrounds to the Spotlight: K-pop Stars on Their Most Meaningful Mom Memories

May 5 is Children’s Day in Korea—a national holiday that celebrates the joy and innocence of childhood.

Then and Now: Childhood Photos vs. Superstar Moments

And while the K-pop idols we know today are global superstars, they were once kids too, with skinned knees, family photos... and moms who kept them grounded. Let's look back at rare childhood moments of beloved K-pop stars—and the sweet, sometimes funny stories they've shared about their mothers

Cha Eun-woo – Baby-Faced Cutie to Literal Prince

Even as a child, Cha Eun-woo had the prince-like visuals he's known for today. But during an appearance on You Quiz on the Block, he shared a surprising story that caught fans off guard.

Despite his striking looks, Cha revealed that his mother never once complimented his appearance when he was young. In fact, he admitted he longed for praise, but his mom raised him with strict discipline—and at times, that made him feel a little hurt.

He went on to recall a moment from childhood when his mom told him, “You’re not good-looking.”

The audience was stunned—but Cha explained with a laugh, “My mom was much stricter back then. She didn’t want me to get cocky.”

These days, Cha Eun-woo says his mom is one of his biggest fans—and even proudly calls him ‘Cha Star.’

G-Dragon – Even As a Kid, the Swag was Real

Having started in children’s shows and trainee life from a young age, G-Dragon has always lived under the spotlight. But behind the fame, his mother has always been a source of love, worry—and the occasional scolding.

In the 2016 documentary film BIGBANG MADE, G-Dragon shared a funny yet relatable story about his mom’s reaction to his tattoos.

“One day, my mom saw one of my tattoos and said, ‘This is it. Don’t get any more. Promise me this is the last one.’”

Naturally, he didn’t stop there. He ended up getting another tattoo on the back of his neck.

While it’s now one of his signature looks, G-Dragon admitted that, at the time, he was so nervous about his mom finding out that he tried to hide it—slouching his shoulders and even growing out his hair to cover it.

In another moment that had fans laughing, G-Dragon once posted a photo on social media showing a tattoo on his thigh. Shortly after, his mom texted him: “If you get any more, it’s going to look messy.” G-Dragon jokingly responded, “Can a mom say that to her son?”—showing just how real (and funny) their relationship is.

Despite mom's strict words, G-Dragon has always expressed gratitude for his parents’ support. He’s mentioned that from a young age, they recognized his talents and encouraged his path—setting the foundation for the global icon he is today.

IU – Innocent & Smart Charm

IU once opened up on her YouTube channel about a childhood moment when she was scolded by her mom—an experience that left a lasting impression. In a heartfelt explanation of her song “Shh.. (/W My First World),” IU shared that it reflects her complex feelings toward the most important woman in her life: her mother.

“My mom was my first world, my first love, and my first teacher,” she said, describing the emotional depth behind the track.

She then recalled that her mom only ever hit her once—when she was seven years old. According to IU’s mother, one day young IU told her, “Mom, I don’t have to go to kindergarten tomorrow. It’s a holiday. I’m so happy!” Her mom jokingly replied, “Then don’t go at all.” But IU, already witty and bold at seven, hit back with, “I’m not saying I don’t want to go to kindergarten. I just said I like holidays. You’re a mom—do you like working days more than days off?”

Her mom later admitted, “That wasn’t something a seven-year-old should be saying. It was so bold that I hit her.” What’s even more memorable is what came next—IU’s mother quickly apologized.

IU reflected on that moment with deep respect. “That really shaped me. I think it was such a good example of what it means to be a great adult—that a parent can apologize to a child.”

The story not only showed the strength of their relationship, but also revealed the values IU carries with her to this day—humility, honesty, and empathy.

Jennie – From Sweet Smile to Fashion Queen

During the second weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Jennie closed her set with an emotional performance of “Starlight” and surprised fans by shouting, “I love you, Mom!” just before the final note.

The moment resonated deeply—especially because one of the lyrics in Starlight reads, “I just wanna make my mama prouder.” It was later revealed that Jennie’s mother was in the audience that night, making the heartfelt message even more meaningful. Jennie has always been open about her special bond with her mom.

Every year on Jennie’s birthday, her mother gifts her a bouquet of blue roses—a personal tradition that fans have come to associate with their close relationship. Jennie once proudly shared that she inherited her first Chanel pieces from her mother, who has long been a source of style inspiration and strength.

More recently, Jennie appeared on the YouTube show 'Yo-Jung-Jae-Hyung' and opened up about a promise she made with her mom before launching her own label, ODD ATELIER.

“My mom told me, ‘If it’s something you really want to try or something related to your dream, go all the way with it. If it’s not for you, you can stop later.’”

“But,” she added, ‘Don’t quit just because you’re frustrated or upset without ever giving it your all.’” That advice stuck with Jennie—who said it's the reason she continues to invest so much in herself.

From her Coachella stage to the launch of her own brand, Jennie’s journey shines a little brighter thanks to the woman who's always believed in her first: her mom.

Get the latest on K-pop & K-drama here!