Cover Itzy’s Lia marks her return from hiatus with an appearance at a livestream broadcast. (Image: Screencap from Itzy’s YouTube channel)
Itzy’s Lia marks her return from hiatus with an appearance at a livestream broadcast. (Image: Screencap from Itzy’s YouTube channel)
1 / 1
Lia of Itzy returns after a year-long hiatus. Discover the details of her comeback, the progress of her recovery, and what lies ahead for the group’s upcoming album
JYP Entertainment announced on July 8 that Lia, a member of the South Korean girl group Itzy, will resume her regular activities. She is set to make her official comeback with the group’s new album, which is scheduled for release in the second half of 2024.
Lia has been on hiatus since September 2023 due to “extreme tension and anxiety.” In the official statement announcing the Korean idol’s return to group activities, the agency mentioned: “Following treatment and rest, her tension and symptoms of anxiety have significantly improved.”
In case you missed it: Songs from K-pop collaborations proving that two is better than one
Above ‘Wannabe’ is a song that was recorded by Itzy and released on their second extended play (EP) titled ‘It’z Me’.
Debuting in 2019, Itzy quickly established itself as one of the frontrunners of the “3.5 generation”—a unique era when the third generation was at its peak and the fourth had yet to debut. Their debut song, Dalla Dalla, immediately caught the public’s attention, but it was Wannabe in 2020 that truly cemented their place in the industry.
The members celebrated milestones together as the group continued to thrive. However, in September 2023, the group announced it would be incomplete for a while as Lia was temporarily pulled out due to health concerns.
Above Girl group Itzy celebrates their Midzy's anniversary with a live stream (Video: Itzy/YouTube)
On July 8 this year, Lia joined her members for their fan club’s fifth-anniversary livestream broadcast—all smiles and with a stunning new haircut. She returns after 10 months of taking a break due to health concerns.
“Following treatment and rest, her tension and symptoms of anxiety have significantly improved,” states JYP Entertainment. “After careful discussion with Lia, it has been decided that she will resume her activities starting with ITZY’s new album, set to be released in the second half of the year.”
Above One of the group’s first 5-member selfies after Lia’s return (Photo: Yeji/Instagram)
One of the group’s first 5-member selfies after Lia’s return (Photo: Yeji/Instagram)
1 / 1
Despite her return, Itzy’s activities scheduled before the release of the upcoming album will only involve the other members: Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna. “We kindly ask for your understanding,” the agency says as they conclude their statement. “We sincerely thank the fans who have shown warm encouragement and support for Lia’s recovery.”
More from Tatler: K-pop girl group ITZY shares insights on the Bench campaign and their return to the Philippines
Above Lia of ITZY during ITZY’s New Mini Album ‘Cheshire’ Release Showcase at Fairmont Ambassador Seoul on November 25, 2022 in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images)
Lia of ITZY during ITZY’s New Mini Album ‘Cheshire’ Release Showcase at Fairmont Ambassador Seoul on November 25, 2022 in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images)
1 / 1
Lia’s break brings to light the issue of mental health among K-pop idols. The intense pressure to perform, maintain a public image, and meet the demands of a rigorous schedule can take a significant toll on idols’ mental well-being. This issue is not unique to Lia.
JYP Entertainment, along with other agencies, have started to take more proactive steps in supporting their artists, such as providing access to mental health professionals and allowing time off for recovery. There is, however, still much work to be done.
As fans, it’s crucial to support these artists not only in their music careers but also in their well-being. Showing understanding and compassion when idols take time off for mental health reasons can make a significant difference.
NOW READ
Thanks to Itzy’s Yuna, This Vintage Dior Bag Is About to Go Viral
Who are the Biggest Players in the K-Pop Industry?
From 2NE1 to Jackson Wang: Asian Artists Dominated Coachella With Their Killer Festival Style
Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is a digital editor at Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
