Who Is Johyun? The Untold Story of Berry Good's Rising Star

Johyun, formerly known as a standout member of the K-pop girl group Berry Good, has transformed her career path since the group's disbandment in May 2021. Now going by her birth name Shin Jee Won, she joined Berry Good as the sixth member in October 2016 and officially debuted with the mini album "Glory" just days later.

During her time as an idol, Johyun participated in the survival show MIXNINE where she ranked 24th before elimination. Since Berry Good's disbandment, she has focused on building her acting portfolio, appearing in various dramas including "Circle" (2017) and "Men Are Men" (2020), as well as films like "The Hypnosis" (2021). Beyond her entertainment career, Johyun is known for her gaming skills, specifically her silver rank in Overwatch, and her fluency in English from her studies at Dongduk Women's University. As of November 2023, she has also made headlines with confirmation of her relationship with a non-celebrity entrepreneur.

Early Life and Education

Born on April 14, 1996, in Bundang-gu, Seongnam, South Korea, Shin Jee-won (신지원) emerged from an artistic family background. Her mother, a former ballerina, likely influenced her early interest in performance-oriented activities. This foundation would eventually lead her toward entertainment, albeit through an unexpected path.

Birthplace and family background

Shin Jee-won, who would later adopt the stage name Johyun upon joining Berry Good, spent her formative years between South Korea and the United States. Interestingly, she lived in America for approximately two years, an experience that contributed significantly to her language skills and cultural adaptability. This international exposure helped shape her perspective and would ultimately benefit her future career in the global-facing K-pop industry.

Her early life reflected a balance of cultural influences—the structured discipline of Korean education alongside the broader exposure gained during her time abroad. Though little information is publicly available about her immediate family beyond her mother's ballet background, this artistic lineage appears to have shaped her comfort with performance.

Schooling and university life

Johyun's educational journey followed a traditional yet ambitious path. She completed her secondary education at Cheongdam High School, a notable institution located in Seoul's affluent Gangnam district. Following graduation, she pursued higher education at Dongduk Women's University, where she obtained a bachelor's degree in Broadcasting Entertainment.

Her university major proved strategic, preparing her for the multifaceted career that would follow her idol years. The Broadcasting Entertainment program at Dongduk Women's University provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to media production, performance, and entertainment business—all valuable assets for her eventual transition from group member to solo personality.

Throughout her education, Johyun maintained her artistic pursuits while developing academic foundations. Her university years overlapped with her time in Berry Good, demonstrating her commitment to balancing education with professional responsibilities.

From skating to stardom: her early ambitions

Perhaps most remarkable about Johyun's background is her initial career trajectory. Long before entering the entertainment industry, she was an accomplished short track speed skater from elementary school through her first year of junior high. Her athletic prowess was exceptional—in 2006, she claimed first place in the 500m race for female elementary 3rd-4th graders at the 9th National Men's and Women's Short Track and Speed Skating Competition, recording an impressive time of 49.51 seconds.

Her promising sports career, however, faced a devastating setback when she suffered a severe leg injury that forced her to abandon competitive skating entirely. Medical professionals reportedly told her she would never skate again, effectively ending what might have been an Olympic-level athletic career.

Nevertheless, this significant life change prompted a complete redirection of her ambitions. After recovering from her injury, Johyun pivoted toward the entertainment industry. By 2013, she had begun training as an idol, undertaking the rigorous preparation process required of K-pop aspirants.

This dramatic shift from athletics to entertainment exemplifies her adaptability and determination. Despite the abrupt end to her skating career, she channeled her disciplined work ethic and performance experience into a new path, ultimately securing a position in Berry Good three years into her training.

Joining Berry Good and K-pop Debut

After years of training and redirecting her ambitions from athletics to entertainment, Shin Jee-won's efforts finally paid off in late 2016 when she joined an already-established K-pop girl group. Her addition to Berry Good would mark a significant turning point both for her career and the group's trajectory.

How Johyun became part of Berry Good

In October 2016, Berry Good underwent another lineup change in their evolving history. On October 25, Shin Jee-won was officially introduced as the sixth member of the group, adopting the stage name "Johyun" (조현) - a thoughtful homage to celebrated actress Joey Wong, who is known as Wang Jo-hyun in Korean. This addition came at a pivotal time for the group, which had already experienced significant changes since their initial debut in 2014.

Prior to Johyun's arrival, Berry Good had faced numerous challenges, particularly financial issues with their original management company, Asia Bridge Entertainment. Subsequently, the company transferred management responsibilities to JTG Entertainment (previously known as Starweave Entertainment) in early 2016, which then handled all the group's activities moving forward. This transition period had already seen several lineup changes, with original members Subin, Iera, and Nayeon departing to focus on their studies.

Debut with 'Glory' and initial reception

Merely days after her introduction, Johyun made her official debut with Berry Good on November 1, 2016, with the release of their second mini-album titled "Glory." The group's comeback showcased their lead track "Don't Believe," which they previewed one day prior to release on Arirang Radio's "K-poppin'" program alongside three other songs from the EP.

Notably, this comeback represented more than just a new member addition - it signified a strategic concept shift for Berry Good. The group moved away from their original "girlish, neat and pure" image, incorporating EDM and tropical house elements into their music. This transformation aimed to present a more mature and dynamic sound that would resonate with a broader audience.

The promotional period for "Don't Believe" marked a crucial moment for Johyun as she adjusted to idol life. Unlike many K-pop rookies who debut alongside other new members, she faced the additional challenge of integrating into an already-established group dynamic while simultaneously learning the demanding schedule of comeback promotions.

Her role as main rapper and visual

Within Berry Good's structure, Johyun quickly established her position as the group's main rapper, lead dancer, vocalist, and visual. This multifaceted role highlighted her versatility as a performer, requiring her to master various aspects of idol presentation from technically challenging rap verses to synchronized choreography.

As the designated "visual" of the group, Johyun drew attention for her striking appearance and proportions. Standing at 169 cm (5'7") and weighing 45 kg (99 lbs), her physique became one of her defining characteristics in the group's promotional materials and public perception.

Additionally, her previous athletic background and discipline from years of speed skating training likely contributed to her capabilities as a lead dancer, allowing her to quickly adapt to the physical demands of K-pop choreography. This background provided a unique advantage, even if her initial performance on survival shows like MIXNINE would later reveal areas for growth and improvement.

Throughout this transformative period, Johyun embraced her new identity as a K-pop idol, laying the groundwork for what would become a multifaceted entertainment career extending beyond her time in Berry Good.

Rise to Fame: MIXNINE and Beyond

In late 2017, Johyun's career took a significant turn when she ventured into the highly competitive world of survival reality shows, marking a crucial step in her journey from rookie idol to multifaceted entertainer.

Participation in MIXNINE and ranking

Johyun participated as a contestant on MIXNINE alongside fellow Berry Good members Daye and Seoyul in late 2017. The survival show, broadcast on JTBC, featured YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun-suk traveling to music agencies across Korea in search of promising K-pop talent. Among the 400 trainees from over 70 agencies who auditioned, 170 participants, including Johyun, passed the preliminary evaluations.

Throughout the competition, Johyun faced significant challenges. She candidly admitted, "I had gotten last place while filming for 'MIXNINE.' I had no choice but to accept the results. I wasn't good enough, and I needed time to adjust". Nonetheless, she persevered and ultimately ranked 24th before being eliminated in episode 13 of the program.

Impact on her popularity

Although MIXNINE itself was considered a "flop show" with numerous controversies, including the cancellation of the winning group's debut, the experience proved valuable for Johyun's career development. She reflected on her growth, stating, "I think I grew a lot while doing the show. The preparation process was really helpful. Before, when I learned choreography, it was difficult and overwhelming, but for this comeback, it was fun".

Furthermore, the constructive criticism she received from industry professionals, particularly Yang Hyun-suk, motivated her to improve. "After hearing Yang Hyun Suk's very real feedback, I became determined to work harder so that I can receive positive feedback, and so I can move others with performances," Johyun explained.

This period represented a turning point in her career trajectory. Instead of viewing elimination as a setback, she used it as motivation to expand her skill set and public visibility across multiple entertainment formats.

Transitioning into acting and variety shows

Following MIXNINE, Johyun strategically diversified her entertainment portfolio by exploring various television formats. In autumn 2017, she joined the cast of talk show "We're Also National Athletes," where she discussed her experience as a short track skater ahead of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. This appearance effectively leveraged her unique athletic background, distinguishing her from typical idol guests.

Henceforth, her variety show presence steadily expanded. In 2018, she co-hosted the MBC game show "Begin A Game". Her gaming interests became increasingly central to her public persona, consequently leading to appearances on game-related programs. By 2019, she had joined two esports shows: "Game Dolympics 2019: Golden Card" and "Egame of Thrones," where she competed with the Jangtan Gamedan team and reached the finals.

Johyun's television presence continued to grow in 2020 when she co-hosted the cable variety show "Things These Days" alongside Kim Yu-bin and Jun Hyo-seong. The following year, she returned for the second season, this time co-hosting with Heo Young-ji.

Her acting career likewise gained momentum during this period. In 2021, she secured her first leading role in the horror thriller movie "Hypnosis". After Berry Good's disbandment on May 12, 2021, Johyun officially moved to Starweave Entertainment to pursue her acting career. This transition culminated in her casting as the female lead in the webseries "Cherry Blossoms After Winter" in November 2021.

Overall, Johyun's experience on MIXNINE, despite not resulting in victory, served as a catalyst for her transformation from a group member to a versatile entertainment personality with presence across multiple media formats.

Acting Career and Screen Appearances

Since the disbandment of Berry Good, Johyun has steadily built her credentials as an actress, establishing herself as more than just a former idol. Her acting journey began while still performing with the group but has accelerated considerably as she transitions to her birth name, Shin Ji Won.

Notable dramas and films

Johyun's silver screen debut came in 2020 with a supporting role as Ye Joo in "Dragon Inn Part 1: The City of Sadness." However, her breakout moment arrived in 2021 when she secured her first leading role in the horror thriller "The Hypnosis," portraying Seo Hyun Jung. During promotional interviews for this film, she revealed her commitment to her new path, stating, "I've stopped doing idol promotions, but I don't want to give up on becoming an actor. I'm reading and studying to improve my acting."

On television, Johyun has accumulated a diverse portfolio of appearances. Her drama roles include guest appearances in "Level Up" (2019) and "To All the Guys Who Loved Me" (2020), where she played Yu Na in episode 2. More substantially, she took on the supporting role of Nam Ji A in the 2022 drama "Cherry Blossoms After Winter" and portrayed Go Yun in "The Villain of Romance" (2023).

Her versatility extended to horror content through her main role as Min Ji in the 2020 special "Strange School Tales: The Child Who Would Not Come," a two-episode production that showcased her range beyond conventional roles.

Reality and variety show highlights

Beyond scripted content, Johyun has maintained a consistent presence on Korean television through variety programming. In April 2019, she secured a significant hosting opportunity when she was cast alongside former Wonder Girls member Yubin and Jun Hyosung as an MC for a new variety show tentatively translated as "People These Days" on the cable channel Tcast. The show completed its first recording on April 28, 2019.

Throughout her career, she has made numerous variety show appearances, certainly building her reputation as a versatile entertainer. Her variety credits include "Comedy Big League" on TVN (2018) as a special MC, "UP! Pretty" alongside Berry Good member Daye on Lifetime (2018), "TOP 3 Chef King" on SBS (2018), and "We're Also National Athletes" on Channel A (2017).

Additional appearances include a cameo on Mnet's "Golden Tambourine" (2017) and participation in "SNL 8" on tVN (2016), demonstrating her comfort with both competitive and comedy formats.

Web content and YouTube features

As the entertainment landscape increasingly shifted toward digital platforms, Johyun accordingly adapted her career strategy to embrace online content. Although specific YouTube features aren't extensively documented in public sources, her transition from traditional media to digital platforms mirrors the industry-wide shift toward more direct creator-audience relationships.

Throughout her career evolution, Johyun has shown remarkable adaptability - from speed skater to idol, variety personality to actress. Her acting career continues to develop as she solidifies her identity as Shin Ji Won rather than merely "Berry Good's Johyun," representing a successful case of an idol effectively navigating the challenging transition to a sustainable post-group career.

Modeling, CFs, and Public Image

Beyond her idol and acting careers, Johyun's modeling work and commercial appearances played a crucial role in elevating her public profile, often reaching audiences unfamiliar with Berry Good's music.

Breakthrough with Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi CF

May 2018 marked a turning point in Johyun's career when she was selected as the promotional model for Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi, a popular Korean rib restaurant chain. What began as a standard endorsement deal unexpectedly transformed into a cultural phenomenon. The commercial, which many viewers initially mistook for local advertising due to its distinctive style, featured a catchy jingle that would become synonymous with Johyun herself.

The advertisement came in two versions—family and company—both characterized by what Korean viewers described as "huge vulgarity" that paradoxically enhanced its appeal. Through aggressive marketing strategies, including placement in the SBS morning drama "Suspicious Mother-In-Law" where the female lead's mother-in-law operated a Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi chain store, the brand's awareness substantially increased around May 2019.

In December 2019, Johyun filmed two additional CFs for the restaurant, demonstrating her continued relationship with the brand. Notably, she donated her entire appearance fee for these advertisements to charity.

Underwear and fashion modeling

Expanding her modeling portfolio, Johyun became the face of Yes, an underwear brand, in February 2020. This campaign featured her in multiple collections, including the "Vintage Flower" and "Kitsch Land" series. That same month, she also participated in a fashion pictorial for BNT magazine, further establishing her credentials in the modeling sphere.

Her underwear modeling work became a topic of controversy when she appeared on the show "Video Star." When asked if she claimed to have a better body than fellow guest Mi-joo, Johyun responded that Mi-joo had a "chopstick body" while noting her own underwear commercial experience. The comment prompted backlash, leading Johyun to apologize via Instagram, explaining she had made the remark in jest for broadcast purposes.

How memes and ads shaped her image

The Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi commercial fundamentally altered Johyun's public image, transforming her from a relatively unknown idol into a recognizable face across South Korea. Following a parody by "the settlement man" approximately a year after the original advertisement, the commercial underwent a resurgence among netizens. Moreover, it evolved into a popular meme on platforms like Twitch, with the CM song often referred to as Johyun's representative track.

The impact of these advertisements on her career was so substantial that even radio shows frequently featured the voice version credited as "Cho Hyun of BerryGood". In essence, the commercial that many initially dismissed as tacky became the defining element of her public image, outlasting even her tenure with Berry Good.

Gaming, Cosplay, and Online Persona

Beyond her commercial success, Johyun carved out a distinctive niche in the entertainment industry through her genuine passion for gaming and cosplay, establishing a unique connection with audiences outside traditional K-pop spheres.

Johyun as a gamer: Overwatch and LoL

Johyun's gaming interests extend far beyond casual entertainment, encompassing competitive play in popular titles like Overwatch and League of Legends. Unlike many celebrities who claim gaming interests for promotional purposes, her engagement with these games appears authentic. She has participated in multiple gaming-related shows, including OGN's "Game Dolympic 2019: Golden Card," where she competed alongside other celebrities in various gaming competitions.

Her gaming proficiency naturally differentiated her from other idols, creating a distinctive personal brand that resonated with gaming enthusiasts. This passion complemented her early athletic background, channeling her competitive nature into digital arenas after her speed skating career ended.

Cosplaying Ahri and other characters

In June 2019, Johyun made headlines when she cosplayed as Ahri, the nine-tailed fox character from League of Legends, at a red carpet event for OGN's "Game Dolympic 2019: Golden Card." The detailed costume, prepared by the event organizers after discussions with her agency, sparked immediate controversy online.

Some critics deemed her outfit "too revealing" and "vulgar," yet fans defended her, arguing that the costume accurately represented the game character. In response to the backlash, her agency JTG Entertainment clarified: "After discussing with the organizers, she wore an outfit prepared for her in order to perfectly pull off the cosplay."

Similarly, OGN reinforced this statement: "It's true that we prepared the outfit for her after discussing with her agency. It was simply a cosplay of a game character, and so we ask that you refrain from overanalyzing it."

Her influence in the gaming community

Following the controversy, Johyun addressed the situation personally via Instagram Stories, thanking fans for their support: "Your warm words of support made me tear up. I sincerely want to thank you." Her thoughtful response demonstrated maturity, stating: "I believe we should respect everyone regardless of their gender because we all grew up in different environments and think differently."

Throughout this incident, Johyun's genuine enthusiasm for gaming remained evident. She explained her motivation: "She likes and enjoys games, and she wanted to communicate together with game users." This authentic interest, coupled with her willingness to engage with gaming culture, established her as a noteworthy figure bridging the gap between K-pop and gaming communities.

This crossover appeal exemplifies how Johyun successfully diversified her career beyond traditional idol activities, fostering connections with audiences through shared interests in gaming and pop culture.

Controversies and Public Reactions

Throughout her career, Johyun has navigated several public controversies that tested her resilience and public relations skills. These incidents offered glimpses into the challenges faced by K-pop personalities in South Korea's scrutinizing entertainment landscape.

Body image comments and apology

In May 2020, Johyun sparked controversy during an appearance on "Video Star" when comparing her figure to Lovelyz's Mijoo. She remarked that while Mijoo was beautiful, she had a body "like a chopstick," contrasting this with her own "glamorous curves" and lingerie commercial experience. The comment immediately drew criticism from viewers who accused her of body shaming and disrespecting a senior artist.

Responding to the backlash, Johyun quickly posted an apology on Instagram, explaining she had only been trying to be entertaining for the variety show. Her message emphasized her genuine admiration for Mijoo: "Mijoo unnie, who's so so beautiful and an amazing variety show god!! Model-like height! Unbelievable physique!".

COVID-19 interview incident

In December 2020, Johyun faced scrutiny after attending a press conference for her film "Dragon Inn Part 1: The City of Sadness" shortly before her agency CEO and manager tested positive for COVID-19. Some media outlets suggested she had knowingly put others at risk.

Johyun clarified via Instagram that she had only learned about the potential exposure after the event: "While I was on my way back from the interviews, I got news from my company to undergo testing". She explained she immediately got tested, received negative results, and subsequently self-quarantined for two weeks.

Statements on Berry Good's disbandment

In March 2021, confusion arose when Johyun stated in an interview that she had "stopped doing idol promotions" and that "members' contract periods have ended". This led many to believe Berry Good had disbanded.

Conversely, JTG Entertainment issued a contradictory statement claiming: "Berry Good have not disbanded". Johyun later clarified on Instagram that she had meant two members had left after their contracts expired, not that the entire group had disbanded. Unfortunately, the group officially announced their disbandment two months later on May 12, 2021.

Personal Life and Relationships

Beyond the spotlight of her entertainment career, Johyun's personal life reveals a multifaceted individual navigating both health challenges and romantic developments while maintaining her distinctive interests.

Health issues and hospitalizations

In September 2019, fans expressed concern when news broke about Johyun's sudden hospitalization. On September 5, she was admitted after experiencing severe stomach pain in the morning. Medical professionals diagnosed her with acute enteritis, for which she received treatment and an IV drip while awaiting test results. Her agency JTG Entertainment later assured worried fans, stating: "She completed tests and is currently resting. There are no issues regarding her future schedule". Nonetheless, the health scare resulted in the cancellation of her scheduled filming for KBS N Sports' "Throne e Game".

Confirmed relationship with entrepreneur

As of November 2023, Johyun's personal life made headlines with the confirmation of her romantic relationship. On November 26, Ghost Studio (her current agency) officially acknowledged: "Shin Ji Won and a non-celebrity man have recently been getting to know each other with good feelings". According to the agency's statement, the couple had been dating for approximately six months.

Presently, although her boyfriend's name remains undisclosed, he has been identified as a successful entrepreneur who earned recognition by being named among Forbes' prestigious "30 Under 30 Asia" list. Her agency has requested privacy, noting: "As her partner is a non-celebrity, we are cautious about causing any potential harm. We ask for your consideration".

MBTI, hobbies, and social media presence

In terms of personality traits, Johyun identifies as an ENTP-T according to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, a personality type often characterized by innovation, curiosity, and adaptability. Throughout her public appearances, this personality profile seems consistent with her willingness to explore diverse entertainment pathways.

Alongside her professional pursuits, Johyun maintains genuine enthusiasm for gaming. She actively plays Overwatch, where she has achieved a silver rank—a fact that authenticates her gaming credentials beyond mere celebrity endorsement. This genuine interest has historically aligned with her cosplay activities and gaming-related appearances mentioned in previous sections.