From Pop Idol to Nun: The Mysterious Disappearance of a Top K-Pop Singer

In the 1980s, South Korea saw the meteoric rise of Lee Kyung Mi, a singer whose popularity rivaled today's biggest K-Pop idols.

With a voice that captivated the nation and a brand that made her one of the most sought-after stars, Lee seemed to have it all. But at the height of her fame, she disappeared from the public eye, leaving fans and the industry in shock.

Lee's journey began as a commercial model before she transitioned into singing, quickly winning the hearts of the nation. Her popularity soared after singing the OST for the drama Samooguk, making her a household name. Her earnings were staggering, with a single song performance reportedly enough to buy a house, a testament to her immense success.

However, despite her fame and fortune, Lee was deeply unsatisfied. She felt a void that her lavish lifestyle couldn't fill. This led her to an unexpected path—leaving the entertainment industry to pursue a life of spirituality as a Buddhist nun.

Lee's decision wasn't an easy one. She faced resistance from her family, especially her mother, who tried to pull her back into the music industry. Lee recounted her struggle, mentioning that she shaved her head three times as she attempted to join the monastery, each time being tracked down by her mother. The breaking point came when her agency pushed her to return to the stage with a wig on, prompting her final departure from the limelight.

In her candid interview with VICE Asia, Lee opened up about the pain and challenges she faced as an artist. She revealed the harsh realities of being a singer in the 80s, including the grueling schedule of performing in clubs and bars, sometimes up to ten shows a night. The military government's treatment of artists, where she was often summoned to entertain VIP guests, added to her distress, making her feel like a "mouse being dragged in by a cat."

This mistreatment and the toxic environment of the entertainment industry led Lee to renounce her stardom and embrace a life of simplicity and spirituality.

Now known as Monk Bohyun, she resides at a temple in Yesan, dedicating her life to Buddhist teachings and using her talent to spread its values through music.

Lee's story is a powerful reminder of the toll that fame can take on one's mental and emotional well-being. Her message to the young idols of today is poignant—don't endure pain in silence; instead, use it as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth.