Trot singer Lee Soo-yeon's grandparents save all her earnings for her future
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Trot singer Lee Soo-yeon's grandparents are saving all her earnings for her future.
- Lee Soo-yeon lost her father at age 7 and was raised by her grandparents.
- Her grandmother shared the emotional impact of losing her son and how Lee Soo-yeon's singing brought joy back to the family.
The grandparents of young trot singer Lee Soo-yeon are diligently saving all of her earnings, ensuring not a single won is spent, as they prepare for her future. Lee Soo-yeon, who gained recognition through shows like "National Singing Contest" and "Miss Trot 3," officially debuted as a trot singer in 2024.
We want to save as much as possible until Soo-yeon turns 19 and can manage her own finances.
Lee Soo-yeon lost her father at the tender age of 7 and has since been lovingly raised by her grandparents. Her grandmother recounted the profound grief following her son's death, describing a period of about two years marked by depression and social withdrawal. "I relied heavily on my son, so I still haven't been able to lay him to rest in my heart," she shared, admitting she worried about how to care for young Soo-yeon during that difficult time.
During her grandmother's sorrow, Lee Soo-yeon became a source of comfort. The young singer would approach her, offer hugs, and reassure her that "everything would be okay." It was through bringing smiles back to her family that Lee Soo-yeon began her singing journey. Her grandmother recalled discovering Soo-yeon's talent while doing laundry; hearing her sing "Bae Ttuweora" brought an unexpected smile to her face. This prompted her grandfather to suggest she pursue singing lessons.
I relied heavily on my son, so I still haven't been able to lay him to rest in my heart.
Her grandparents' dedication extends to meticulously recording and saving all of Lee Soo-yeon's income. "We want to save as much as possible until Soo-yeon turns 19 and can manage her own finances," her grandmother explained. Even singer Jang Min-ho expressed surprise at their commitment, noting that they haven't touched a single won of her earnings. When Lee Soo-yeon urges them to use the money for their needs, her grandfather reportedly scolds her, insisting they save it for her. Her grandmother fondly mentioned that her grandfather promised to buy her a wig when her hair started falling out, highlighting Lee Soo-yeon's filial piety.
Soo-yeon's earnings have not been touched, not even one won.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.