TVXQ’s Manager Treated Kim Jaejoong Differently Overseas

JYJ‘s Kim Jaejoong launched his first variety show, JaeFriends, in July, and has already hosted 21 fellow celebrities.

For a unique twist, each guest is a mystery to Kim Jaejoong, and their identities are only revealed after he attempts to guess who they are from a series of clues. Even though he had never met his most recent guest in person, he quickly identified lyricist Kim Eana as the special guest star of his latest episode.

Although the two had never formally met, Kim Eana wrote the lyrics to Jaejoong’s solo song “Drawer” in 2016.

Kim Eana and Jaejoong shared they were excited to finally meet, while the lyricist hilariously added that they met from afar when she had seen the back of his head at a TV station while he was promoting with his former group TVXQ.

Kim Eana couldn’t help pointing out how Jaejoong looked just like his photos. While eating the food Jaejoong had prepared for the show, she wondered if he had become a good cook because it was difficult to eat or walk around in public as an easily recognizable celebrity.

He denied that was the case, but did admit he was often recognized in public.

Kim Eana pointed out that because of his handsome and easily recognizable features, Jaejoong would likely be noticed even if he was wearing a mask.

This reminded him of his time promoting with TVXQ. Jaejoong stated that whenever the group went overseas, the other members were allowed to leave their accommodations, but their manager refused to allow Jaejoong the same freedom.

Jaejoong revealed it was because the manager realized that, even with a mask on, Jaejoong was too recognizable.

While discussing being recognized in public, Jaejoong shared that he embraces it and often takes photos with fans who spot him.

During the episode, Kim Eana opened up more about her songwriting and revealed the lyrics she wrote with IVE‘s Jang Wonyoung in mind.

Lyricist Kim Eana Wrote A Specific Line In “I AM” With IVE’s Jang Wonyoung In Mind