Former AOA member Cho A has opened up about the real reason behind her departure from the group, mentioning the rise of Blackpink and TWICE as a turning point.
In a video released on August 20 on the YouTube channel “이게진짜최종,” Cho A appeared alongside Soyul, a former member of Crayon Pop. The two discussed their decisions to step away from idol activities.
Cho A admitted, “I debuted because I dreamed of being an idol, but I felt like my hard work wasn’t going to get me anywhere anymore. And then, at that time, Blackpink and TWICE came out. When such talented newcomers appeared, I thought, ‘This is my peak.’”
She went on to explain the mental strain she faced during her time in AOA. “I felt that no amount of effort would make a difference, and if I tried any harder, I’d go half-crazy. So I decided to quit while I was ahead.”
Soyul responded, “You’re the type to think and decide on your own.” To this, Cho A replied, “That’s right. That’s probably why the members don’t like me,” she added with a laugh. She further explained, “But I just felt that if I kept going, it would be mentally difficult. I wanted to find my own happiness. I came out with the great courage to be disliked. Even if I could go back in time, I think I would still leave the group.”
Cho A first debuted with AOA in 2012 and officially left the group in June 2017. Her departure was widely discussed in the K-pop community, and her comments now shed light on the pressures idols face when competing against leading groups like Blackpink and TWICE.
