UPDATE: K-Pop sensation Yujin from IVE is making headlines for an ironic twist surrounding her latest endorsement. The star is the new face of the Nara Sarang Card, a debit and ID card issued exclusively to military personnel in South Korea. However, in a surprising turn, Yujin, who has never served in the military, is not eligible to own the card herself.
This revelation is drawing massive attention online, with fans and commentators alike buzzing over the juxtaposition of Yujin’s star power and the card’s exclusive military status. The Nara Sarang Card, launched by Hana Bank, features Yujin’s image prominently on its design, making it one of the most recognizable cards in Korea. Yet, despite her iconic placement, she cannot apply for it.
Yujin expressed her disappointment, stating, “I said I wanted it too. I was like, what do I have to do to get it, and they said I’m not applicable for it.” This statement highlights the unique intersection of celebrity culture and military service in South Korea, where the card serves not only as a debit card but also as a service ID and a benefits card for soldiers and veterans.
The irony of Yujin representing a military-exclusive card while being ineligible to own it underscores her broad public appeal and the trust placed in her by fans and brands. As a leading figure in the fourth generation of K-Pop idols, Yujin’s visibility continues to grow, and this latest development is likely to amplify her popularity even further.
In light of this situation, observers are speculating whether Hana Bank might consider gifting Yujin a non-working version of the card as a keepsake, given the public interest in her association with the product.
As this story develops, fans are eager to see how Yujin’s status as a military card ambassador impacts her career and public perception. The juxtaposition of her celebrity status against the backdrop of military service continues to spark conversations and create shareable moments across social media platforms.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story, as the K-Pop community reacts to Yujin’s viral moment and what it means for her future in the industry.
