NewJeans’s Hyein has opened up about growing older, changing priorities and the simple routines she has embraced away from the spotlight. In a rare magazine interview and pictorial, the singer reflected on how much she has changed since debuting at 15 while sharing a glimpse into her everyday life at 19.
The interview also marked Hyein’s return to a magazine photoshoot after a long break. She said she was both excited and nervous about showing a more grown-up side of herself, especially after experimenting with styling choices she had never tried before.
Hyein Reflects On How Much She Has Changed
Looking back at the difference between herself at 15 and her current self at 19, Hyein said many things have changed. She pointed to her personality, habits, interests and priorities as areas that have evolved over the years. At times, she feels as though almost everything about her has changed.
However, there is still one part of her personality that she feels has remained exactly the same: her sense of humour. Hyein specifically mentioned her reaction to dad jokes, saying that her sense of humour has not changed despite all the other changes in her life. The playful answer gave a lighter touch to her reflection on growing up in the public eye.

NewJeans Star Shares Her Everyday Happiness
Hyein also spoke about the little things that have been making her happy recently. One of her favourite ways to relax is watching travel vlogs while eating a good meal by herself. She described the routine as a genuinely comforting and healing part of her day.
She also revealed that she likes spending time by the Han River when she needs a quick change of mood. Rather than looking for elaborate distractions, Hyein appears to find comfort in quiet, ordinary moments. When asked about the NewJeans song she currently enjoys the most, she chose “Cool With You”, She said she never gets tired of listening to it and particularly enjoys the more upbeat section that arrives midway through the track.
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Hyein Opens Up About Growing Up And Future Goals
As she approaches her 20s, Hyein also shared what adulthood means to her. She said she still has much of life ahead of her and acknowledged that her understanding could change, but currently sees a grown-up as someone who knows how to take care of themselves while also caring for others.
She also revealed a simple plan for turning 20: blowing out candles on a cake and eating it. Away from work, Hyein set herself a goal of living a healthier life in 2026. She wanted to exercise consistently, eat healthier food and maintain a more regular sleep schedule. She admitted that achieving those goals has been harder than expected but said she intends to keep trying.

Hyein Wants To Explore More Of Herself
Hyein’s latest pictorial also reflects her interest in experimenting with her image. She said she enjoyed trying styles she had never attempted before and hopes to continue exploring different looks in future shoots. She added that comfortable styling matters most to her and noted that her personal preferences have also been changing. Even clothing choices that she once avoided, such as sleeveless tops, have gradually become more appealing.
When asked when she feels most like herself, Hyein pointed to moments spent with people she feels comfortable around, in relaxed surroundings and doing what she wants. She also said she feels completely like herself when she is simply alone. For fans who have been curious about how she has been doing, Hyein did not offer a complicated message. Instead, she asked how their day had been and hoped they could find small moments of happiness in everyday life.
Final Take
Hyein’s latest interview offers a personal look at how she has grown since debuting as NewJeans’s youngest member. From changing priorities and experimenting with fashion to enjoying travel vlogs, Han River walks and simple routines, she is embracing a quieter period of personal growth while looking ahead to her 20s.
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