Comedian Mija Opens Up About Bullying—and the Friend Who Helped Her Heal
In a deeply emotional confession, South Korean comedian Mija shared her painful past of being ostracized (excluded or ignored) in the entertainment industry. She described how intense feelings of isolation and bullying from peers led her into a downward spiral of depression. For three long years, she lived in seclusion without stepping outside, and during that period, she even considered ending her life.
What turned her life around? One friend: Park Na-rae. Known for her candid personality and warm heart, Park noticed Mija’s suffering and became the one person who stepped forward. She didn’t just offer sympathy—she acted. Park consistently reached out, started conversations without expecting anything in return, and above all, reminded Mija that she wasn’t alone.
Bullying and Mental Health Behind the Stage
Mija's experience sheds light on a darker side of the entertainment world. Despite laughing on camera, she felt invisible behind the scenes—isolated by her own colleagues. The pressure to perform and compete in such a tightly-knit industry only worsened her emotional state. That invisible pain eventually became unbearable.
Unfortunately, her story isn’t unique. Many entertainers, particularly in industries fueled by competition and image, silently struggle with mental health challenges. The entertainment world, often glamorous in appearance, can be a harsh environment where bullying is swept under the rug rather than acknowledged.
Park Na-rae's Role: Kindness in Action
In contrast to those who turned a blind eye, Park Na-rae chose to see what others ignored. She noticed that Mija was suffering and chose to act with compassion. Whether it was checking in regularly, standing beside her backstage, or simply reminding her she mattered, Park’s unwavering support was a lifeline.
Her sincerity stood firm even when Mija was the subject of negative rumors. Park’s simple motto, “I believe only what I see,” reflected a powerful act of trust in a world often dominated by hearsay. Through this, Park set an example—not just for celebrities but for anyone in a position to be a friend.
Speaking Up: Healing or Hurtful?
Why Speaking Out Helps
Mija’s public revelation has sparked meaningful conversation. By bravely sharing her mental health struggles, she gives voice to countless others suffering in silence. Her story shines a light on the real consequences of social exclusion—not just momentary sadness, but deep, lasting trauma.
Her story also helps to normalize discussions about depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in cultures where mental health is often stigmatized (viewed as something shameful). For younger audiences, her courage can be a mirror—showing that it’s okay to feel down and that help really can make a difference.
The Risks of Going Public
But not everyone agrees that such personal details should be shared so publicly. Some critics argue that calling out bullying without naming names still implies blame—potentially damaging reputations of those involved, whether or not the accusations are fully justified.
Others worry about over-sharing. Talking publicly about suicidal thoughts and severe depression may risk inviting unwanted pity or reinforcing stereotypes about fragility in public figures. Instead of empowering people, public confessions might lead to more social stigma against people who struggle silently.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Still Matters
Mija’s story doesn’t just ask us to feel—we have to think. Bullying, whether in a schoolyard or a studio, leaves scars. Without cultural change inside tightly-knit industries like entertainment, these cycles of exclusion and depression will repeat themselves.
Moreover, publicizing one’s private struggles carries a cost. While her bravery is admirable, Mija now faces increased attention and potential judgment about her mental health. It raises the question: are we truly ready to support those who open up, or just ready to consume their pain as content?
Takeaways: What Mija and Park Na-rae Teach Us
At the heart of this story is a simple but urgent truth: no one gets through hard times alone. Park Na-rae’s willingness to reach out with empathy was not just kind—it was healing. Her support gave Mija a bridge out of isolation. It’s a timely reminder that small acts of compassion can literally save lives.
Mental health challenges, especially in high-pressure careers, are nothing to be ashamed of. If anything, they’re a call to shift how we view strength—not as stoic silence, but as the courage to seek help and speak honestly. More than ever, we need to build environments where empathy isn’t rare, but routine.
As we listen to stories like Mija’s, we must ask ourselves not just what went wrong—but how we can do better, as colleagues, friends, and a society. Healing begins when we stop turning away.
