Stardom's Dark Side: Kwon Mina Reflects on AOA Bullying Controversy and Personal Trauma

Behind the glittering facade of K-pop, a story of profound pain has re-emerged. Former AOA member Kwon Mina took to social media on the 1st to share a detailed account of the hardships she’s endured, ranging from childhood abuse to systematic bullying during her idol years. Her message paints a grim picture of a life spent battling trauma while maintaining the public image of a successful singer.

A Childhood Marked by Trauma and the Roots of Controversy

Kwon Mina's revelation details a series of events that are difficult to fathom. She disclosed enduring domestic violence as early as kindergarten and experiencing a horrific sexual assault by a delinquent for 6-7 hours during middle school. Financial instability forced her to drop out and start working in her first year of middle school to support her family, all while bearing these scars in silence.

Her journey in the entertainment industry began as a way to overcome her past, but she claimed it only brought more pain. During her 3.5 years as a trainee and her subsequent 2012 debut with AOA, she was allegedly subjected to verbal and physical abuse. The most heart-wrenching claim involves the year 2014, when she was reportedly scolded for crying in a waiting room while her father was dying of pancreatic cancer—an incident that she says prevented her from properly saying goodbye to him.

The Public Divide and a Rocky Path Forward

Since leaving AOA in 2019, Mina's narrative has been met with both sympathy and skepticism. While many supported her initial claims of bullying, subsequent controversies—including allegations of nurse power abuse and relationship scandals—have complicated public perception. Her recent one-month stint with Moden Berry Korea further highlights her unstable situation.

Currently, Kwon Mina is reportedly preparing for her first solo fan meeting. Whether this marks a genuine turning point or another chapter in her ongoing struggle remains to be seen. Her story continues to serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for better mental health support within the K-pop ecosystem.