Hwang Hye-young Closes Her 10 Billion Won Online Store: Focusing on Family After 18 Years of Success

Hwang Hye-young’s Surprising Decision: Closing a 100 Billion Won Business

Did you know that Hwang Hye-young, the beloved member of the legendary K-pop group 2Two, has decided to close her online shopping mall after 18 years? This isn’t just any business—it once boasted annual revenues of 100 billion won and daily sales peaking at 4 billion won. On June 24, 2025, Hwang announced on her YouTube channel that she’s stepping away from her role as CEO, citing exhaustion and a desire to focus on her growing twins. Her announcement shocked fans and the Korean business community, who have long seen her as a symbol of entrepreneurial success among celebrities.

From K-pop Star to Business Mogul: The Story Behind the Shopping Mall

Hwang’s journey is a testament to the diverse paths K-pop idols can take after their music careers. After stepping back from entertainment, she launched her online store as a side project, not knowing it would become a massive success. Hwang’s unique approach—personally modeling clothes and sharing her real-life fashion tips—helped her connect with customers, especially women who related to her body type and style. Her authenticity and hands-on management style set her apart from other celebrity entrepreneurs, making her a role model for many Korean working moms.

Why Say Goodbye? The Pressures of Success and Motherhood

Running a top-grossing online business is no small feat, and Hwang has been candid about the toll it took on her health and family life. She revealed that as her twins grew older, she felt increasingly guilty about not being present for them. The relentless pace of managing a business, combined with the demands of motherhood, left her physically and emotionally drained. Hwang admitted that she often felt like quitting, especially during tough times such as her pregnancy and health issues, when she even had to pay her employees’ salaries out of her own pocket for two years.

The Cultural Impact: Why Hwang’s Story Resonates with Korean Fans

In Korea, the image of the ‘supermom’—a woman who juggles career, family, and personal aspirations—is both celebrated and scrutinized. Hwang’s candid confession about her struggles has sparked empathy and support from fans, especially working mothers who see their own challenges reflected in her story. Her decision to prioritize her children and self-care over business success challenges traditional expectations and opens up conversations about work-life balance in Korean society.

Fans React: Support, Nostalgia, and New Aspirations

The news of Hwang’s business closure has flooded Korean news outlets and social media. Fans are expressing nostalgia for her 2Two days and admiration for her entrepreneurial achievements. Many are also sharing their own stories of burnout and the difficult choices working parents face. Hwang’s honesty has inspired a wave of support, with fans encouraging her to focus on herself and her family, and expressing curiosity about her next chapter. Some even hope she’ll return to entertainment or start a new venture when she’s ready.

Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Running a Celebrity Shopping Mall

Hwang’s story also sheds light on the realities of Korea’s booming online shopping industry. Unlike some celebrity brands that rely on name recognition alone, Hwang built her business from the ground up, often handling everything from product selection to photoshoots herself. She emphasized that her success was not overnight, but the result of relentless effort, learning from failures, and adapting to changing trends. Her transparency about the challenges—like sudden drops in sales during her maternity leave—offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

What’s Next for Hwang Hye-young? Hints at a New Beginning

Even as she steps away from her business, Hwang is not closing the door on future projects. She has expressed that she doesn’t see her age as a barrier and remains passionate about personal growth and new opportunities. Fans are eagerly watching to see what she’ll do next, whether it’s a return to the entertainment world, a new business, or simply enjoying life as a mom. Her journey continues to inspire, reminding everyone that it’s never too late to pursue happiness and fulfillment.

A Role Model for Working Moms and Entrepreneurs

Hwang Hye-young’s story is more than just a celebrity news headline—it’s a powerful narrative about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to make difficult choices. For international fans of K-pop and Korean culture, her journey offers a unique perspective on the pressures faced by women in Korea’s fast-paced society. Whether you knew her as a singer, businesswoman, or influencer, Hwang’s legacy as a trailblazer for working moms and entrepreneurs is sure to endure.

International Fandom: Why Hwang’s Decision Matters Beyond Korea

Korean pop culture has a global audience, and stories like Hwang’s resonate far beyond national borders. Her experience highlights universal themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the search for balance—a message that speaks to working parents and fans worldwide. As K-culture continues to influence global trends, Hwang Hye-young’s honest and human story reminds us that behind every success, there’s a personal journey worth celebrating.