K-Pop idol Cherry, formerly a member of the boy group JWiiver and a pre-debut member of the survival group BOYS24, has come out as transgender.
According to PinkNews, Cherry told fans during a July 19 Instagram Live, “This isn’t a hobby, it’s my life. I’m trans. Because I wasn’t an ordinary person, I couldn’t reveal everything from the start. My goal was to take it slow. I’m just going with my goal.” The singer previously told fans she was fine being referred to with he, she, or they pronouns.
A few days after her live, Cherry thanked international fans on Instagram for their support and love, ending their message with, “I’ll live my second life happier. I would appreciate it if you continue to love and support us.”
Fans have praised Cherry for her openness. One fan wrote, “So beyond proud of her. My sweet girl.” Another shared, “I’ve been following her for a long time and I feel excited every time she expresses herself.”
Although trans representation in South Korean media remains relatively rare, more K-Pop stars have been opening up about their queer identities in recent years. Holland, one of K-Pop’s first openly gay idols, came out in 2018, paving the way for others. Bain, a member of Just B, revealed in April that he’s proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community. KATSEYE‘s Lara came out as queer in March, and her groupmate Megan came out as bisexual during Pride Month this year.
Source: Facebook
