Behind the Spotlight: Kahi's Courageous Revelation of Childhood Abuse
Kahi, the renowned former member of the iconic girl group After School, has bravely stepped forward to share a deeply personal and heart-wrenching chapter of her life. During a candid conversation on the YouTube program New Beginnings CBS aired on June 16, 2025, Kahi unveiled the harrowing experiences of childhood abuse that have profoundly shaped her journey.
Growing up as the third of four siblings, Kahi's early years were marked by familial complexities. Her mother, debilitated by a herniated disc post-childbirth, was unable to care for Kahi, leading to her being raised by her maternal grandparents until the age of three. This early separation planted the seeds of disconnection and longing in Kahi's heart.
The return to her parents' home did not bring the warmth Kahi had hoped for. Instead, it was the beginning of a challenging chapter characterized by a lack of maternal affection and the presence of a stern, authoritarian father. She recounted with painful clarity, "When I returned home, I barely recognized my mother. I even asked, ‘Who is that lady?’ There was no connection." This poignant statement encapsulates the void that defined her early interactions with her mother.
In her narrative, Kahi painted a vivid picture of her home life as a "survival battlefield," where safety was a luxury she seldom felt. The authoritarian regime imposed by her father was often punctuated by violence, leaving indelible marks on her childhood psyche. "The house felt more like a survival battlefield than a place of comfort. I never felt safe. My father was extremely authoritarian and often violent," she revealed, allowing viewers a glimpse into the tumultuous environment she navigated daily.
Kahi's most haunting memories include witnessing the brutality inflicted upon her mother by her father. She vividly recalled an incident where her father beat her mother so severely that blood stained the bed sheets. "There was a day when my father beat my mother so badly that there was blood on the bed. I remember watching her quietly wash the blanket in the bathroom. That’s something I’ll never forget," she shared, her voice laden with emotion.
The violence was not limited to her mother; Kahi herself was no stranger to physical abuse. She described the beatings as a grim aspect of daily life, where anything within reach—a stick, belt, sink hose, or clothes hanger—became an instrument of punishment. "Getting hit was just part of daily life," she recounted, illustrating the pervasive culture of fear and control that overshadowed her upbringing.
Kahi's disclosure has sent ripples through the K-pop community and beyond, serving as a stark reminder of the hidden battles many idols face away from the public eye. Her story offers a poignant reminder of the emotional resilience required to thrive in an industry often perceived as glamorous.
The revelation has resonated deeply with fans and viewers, sparking conversations about the importance of mental health and emotional well-being in the entertainment industry. As Kahi courageously opens up about her past, she not only reclaims her narrative but also provides a beacon of hope for others who may be enduring similar struggles.
Through her bravery, Kahi exemplifies the strength and vulnerability that define the human spirit. Her story, now shared with the world, is a testament to the power of speaking one's truth and the healing that can emerge from the shadows of silence.
This comprehensive account of Kahi's revelations underscores the complex interplay of personal history and professional success, offering a rare glimpse into the real lives of idols beyond the spotlight. As the dialogue around mental health and emotional support in the K-pop industry continues to evolve, Kahi's voice stands as a powerful catalyst for change, inspiring many to advocate for a more compassionate and understanding world.
In the end, Kahi's story is not just about survival but about triumph—an inspiring journey of overcoming adversity and embracing one's true self. Her courage in sharing her past is a profound reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the enduring impact of sharing one's truth.