The K-pop world is often built on carefully constructed images, but even idols are susceptible to the playful fascination with glance-alikes. IVE’s Ahn Yujin recently shared a charming story about a long-held curiosity that finally came to fruition: meeting GOT7’s Jinyoung to see if she truly resembled him, particularly when he donned drag for a past performance. This anecdote, revealed on the variety show Take Care Of My Fridge, highlights the unique dynamics within the industry and the impact of internal perceptions on idols.
Yujin, currently the leader of the popular girl group IVE, first encountered the comparison during her trainee days at Starship Entertainment. According to Yujin, company staff repeatedly pointed out a resemblance between her and Jinyoung, specifically referencing his memorable female impersonation. This running joke created a playful anticipation for a potential meeting, and Yujin admitted she was eager to finally address it. Born September 1, 2003, in Cheongju, South Korea, Yujin previously debuted as a member of the now-disbanded group Iz*One before finding success with IVE, as detailed in her Wikipedia entry.
A Trainee’s Curiosity
The comparison wasn’t just a fleeting comment. Yujin explained that the staff’s consistent observations sparked a genuine curiosity. She wanted to see for herself if the resemblance was as striking as they claimed. “When I was a trainee, the company’s staff frequently told me that I looked like him, specifically, when he dressed up as a girl,” Yujin shared on Take Care Of My Fridge, as reported by multiple sources. The moment finally arrived when both Yujin and Jinyoung appeared as guests on the show, providing the perfect opportunity to settle the debate.
The Verdict is In
When the topic came up on the show, the panel and viewers alike were presented with side-by-side images of Yujin and Jinyoung in his iconic drag look. The consensus? The similarities were undeniable. Shared features like full lips, bold eyebrows, and similar eye shapes contributed to the uncanny resemblance. A Twitter user captured the moment, sharing a screenshot and expressing amusement at the comparison.
하 씨 유진이 지녕sbn 만나보는거 기대한 이유가 샤갈 ㅜㅜ 어릴때 회사에서 sbn여장하신거랑 닮앗단 얘길 들엇어서ㅠㅠ pic.twitter.com/SGc1p0rtuq
— 초무🍋 (@9_1_5_6_7) March 1, 2026
The story, as highlighted by Memesita, speaks to a broader phenomenon within the K-pop industry. The search for celebrity doppelgängers is a global pastime, but in K-pop, where image is paramount, these comparisons carry a unique weight. The pressure to maintain a certain aesthetic is intense, and being compared to another idol, even in a humorous context, can be both validating and potentially unsettling for trainees.
Beyond the Laughs: The Pressure of Appearance
This seemingly lighthearted anecdote offers a glimpse into the often-hidden world of idol training and the pressures surrounding appearance. Trainees are constantly evaluated, and feedback on their looks is commonplace. Being told you resemble a successful idol can be a form of validation, but it also highlights the industry’s focus on physical attributes. The story underscores how internal industry perceptions can shape an idol’s self-awareness and how even playful comparisons can resonate deeply during the formative years of training.
Jinyoung, a member of the veteran group GOT7, has a long and established career in the entertainment industry. He is known for his versatility, having successfully navigated both music and acting roles. The meeting between Yujin and Jinyoung, as reported by Evrim Ağacı, was a lighthearted moment on Take Care Of My Fridge, but it also revealed a fascinating insight into the dynamics between senior and junior artists in the K-pop world.
As both IVE and GOT7 continue to pursue their respective careers, fans can anticipate more engaging content and interactions from these talented artists. IVE is currently focused on promoting their latest releases and solidifying their position as a leading girl group, while GOT7 continues to explore individual and group activities. The next scheduled appearance for IVE is at the Seoul Music Awards on March 10th, 2026, where they are nominated for several awards.
What did you think of this surprising connection? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow K-pop fans!
