Ye-won reclaims her 'unnie' meme with heartwarming moment with Lee Hyori

"You don't like me, do you, unnie?"—Singer and actress Ye-won has transformed the symbolic keyword 'unnie' (older sister) that has followed her for years into a beautiful new memory. The term 'unnie,' which once became a viral meme in popular culture, is being reborn as an expression of sincere respect and excitement toward her idol, Lee Hyori, 11 years later, drawing renewed public interest.

On the 14th, Ye-won revealed several photos taken with singer Lee Hyori via her social media (SNS). The images are behind-the-scenes cuts from the recording of the JTBC variety show 'Love War,' capturing a natural and harmonious atmosphere between the two.

In the released photos, Ye-won is seen smiling brightly with her face close to Lee Hyori's while affectionately wrapping her arms around Lee Hyori's waist. Lee Hyori also caught eyes by naturally leaning into Ye-won's embrace and smiling warmly at the camera. The comfortable chemistry between these two iconic female stars was enough to heighten viewers' expectations even before the broadcast.

Along with the photos, Ye-won could not hide her overwhelming emotions, writing, "I thought I was going to die of happiness that day." She added, "I filmed with Hyori unnie, whom I admire and love so much (I dare call her unnie). We hugged," expressing her heartfelt joy at working on the same program as a senior she has long respected.

Above all, what captured the public's attention was Ye-won's use of the title 'unnie.' This word carries more symbolism than a simple honorific, as it has become an indispensable keyword when discussing Ye-won's career in the entertainment industry.

In 2015, Ye-won garnered nationwide attention with her remark, "You don't like me, do you, unnie?" following a conflict during a shoot with actress Lee Tae-im. At the time, the video spread rapidly across online platforms and SNS, and the sentence has since become a representative catchphrase in internet culture, frequently cited to this day.

While the controversy at the time placed a significant burden on Ye-won, she has since handled it lightheartedly by referencing the episode herself in broadcasts and YouTube content. Rather than hiding from the past, she sublimated it into a piece of pop culture, reinterpreting it as part of her own character. This has been viewed as a successful example of celebrity image management.

In that sense, her expression toward Lee Hyori, "I dare call her unnie," holds symbolism that goes beyond simple fandom. As the word that was once at the center of controversy is now used as a warm title of respect, it naturally reflects Ye-won's growth and changed perspective over the years.

Lee Hyori is a legendary figure who has represented the Republic of Korea's pop music scene for a long time, building unrivaled influence in variety shows, commercials, and fashion. Since Ye-won has publicly expressed her admiration for her in the past, this meeting is seen as a special moment where a long-time fan finally fulfilled a dream.

Fans reacted to the photos with empathy, commenting, "This unnie is a truly happy unnie," "I didn't know the same word could have such a different meaning after 11 years," and "I think it will finally be remembered as a good memory.'

Since her debut in 2011 as a member of the group Jewelry, Ye-won has been beloved for her friendly charm and quick wit in variety shows. She has since expanded her career into acting, working across dramas, films, and variety shows, and continues to showcase a mature charm through various media.