Popular Former Fourth-Gen Idol Shockingly Revealed To Be Working As A Barista

It isn’t rare for former idols to have “normal” jobs after leaving their groups.

Male Idol Forced To Work 4 Part-Time Jobs After His Group Unexpectedly Disbands

Recently, former EVERGLOW member Mia‘s whereabouts has sparked shock.

Recently, in a post from a netizen on RedNote, OP explained that they were just chatting with a barista staff member who said they used to be an idol, and that they didn’t know which idol they were because of the “contrast” in aura and visuals.

I went to grab a coffee, was chatting with the staff and she mentioned being an idol in the past. But I have no idea which group she was in, I just feel like there’s such a big contrast.

The post garnered attention on X, with someone explaining that it was Mia.

A Chinese girl shared her story on Rednote. She was grabbing coffee in Korea and struck up a conversation with the barista, who mentioned she used to be an idol. The girl had no idea which group Mia was from and was blown away by the huge contrast.😭 pic.twitter.com/zGsqxwUbxe

— 빛· (@c_everglow) October 6, 2026

It sparked major reactions from netizens, as some were shocked and heartbroken that Mia, known for her talent and aura, was now working as a barista after seemingly leaving the idol life, especially given what happened with the group and how they were treated.

the former mid tier idol to barista pipeline is so interesting

— BABY JEANS ⁉️ (@bbyjimjams) October 6, 2026

The kpop industry owes her a big apology for playing with her life and dreams like that.

— 🫧 (@movingcastle___) October 6, 2026

Miss mia so much. Hope she’s doing okay. She’s an amazing performer. I’m still so sad at the fact they were never paid. They deserve justice

— hickory dickory cock lover 🔞 (@kagaminers_) October 6, 2026

what the fuck

— yushi fudanshi fans (@flofujoshi) October 6, 2026

i’m so glad eunji is just living life and vibing now away from all the hate😭❤️‍🩹

— spooky jupi🦇༉‧₊˚. (@fromkicatcher) October 6, 2026