15 years after she debuted on KBS Music Bank, her first and last music show performance, singer Ori has returned to the public light.
In her first public appearance and interview in 15 years, Ori spoke with Sports Chosun about what she has been up to and clarified some rumors surrounding her upbringing and debut.
On January 2, 2009, Ori made her debut stage on KBS Music Bank with her song “It’s Snowing.”
She was the only singer signed to her agency, Chang’s Entertainment, which was also unknown then. Following her performance, Ori’s stage was dubbed “the worst debut stage in history.”
Negative comments about Ori came in hot and fast after her debut performance.
WOW, that was actually awful. Her voice cracked, barely on tune. It was difficult to watch it all. Also what was that random part in the chorus where it sounded like she was just talking, she shoulda just talked the whole song through. At least she’s getting a lot of publicity.
— Online Netizen
She was seemingly never heard from again, with the attempts to locate her futile by those in the entertainment industry, until today. Ori first spoke up about how even today, there are a few people who still recognize her.
I have been working without caring about what kind of job it is. I have worked at an IT company and I also worked at an animal hospital.
There were quite a few people on the streets who have recognized me. They were like ‘Oh! It’s Ori!’
Thinking about it now, I think I had depression at the time. My self-esteem was destroyed.
— Ori
She also spoke up about the misunderstandings surrounding her family. She was accused of being a golden spoon, having rich and powerful parents who were able to get her an appearance on Music Bank. Those accusations were completely wrong.
I was not a ‘golden spoon’ child. My father passed away when I was five years old and after that, our family continued to spiral in decline.
I had a hard time during puberty due to not having a father present. The rumors [about my upbringing] were very upsetting to hear.
— Ori
Ori talked about the Music Bank PD’s reaction to her performance, and how while the PD was angry, didn’t unleash their anger on her in the end.
The PD called me out separately after the performance was over and the atmosphere in the room was not good.
The PD may have called me over to scold me, but maybe because I was looking so bright at the time, he just told me to leave.
— Ori
Ori also gave a glowing review of IU. IU was also a rookie at the time, having debuted just three months prior.
I shared a waiting room with IU. I was watching her performance with my mouth wide open during her rehearsal.
— Ori
Finally, she apologized for her poor performance back then, and asked for the public to look more positively on her now.
It’s only natural that the public will criticize or point out one’s skills. I am so sorry because it is true that I was lacking a lot.
Please give me your attention as I work hard [now].
— Ori
Read the whole story about her mysterious disappearance below.
The Mysterious K-Pop Idol Who Disappeared Right After Debuting
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