IU Says She Wants to Work 'Several Times Longer Than 20 Years'

Singer and actress IU shared her thoughts on nearing the 20th anniversary of her debut. Speaking at a handprinting ceremony for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, she said she still wants to keep working for many more years to come.

The event was held on the 7th at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall. IU attended after winning Best Actress in the drama category at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards for "When Life Gives You Tangerines."

"A year has passed, but I still can't believe it was last year's work," she said. "I still watch 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' often, and I don't skip the shorts either. It still takes up a big part of my algorithm."

IU debuted in 2008 and is approaching her 20th year in the industry. She spoke about that milestone with a note of humility.

"There are seniors who have worked much longer than me, so it's a little awkward to talk about," she said. "But for nearly 20 years, I've tried to work hard and stay steady. Work feels more natural to me than everyday life. I'm grateful to the fans who have watched over, supported, and protected all of that."

She also laid out where she wants to go next. "I want to work several times longer than 20 years, while taking care of my health," she said. "I think people who stay consistent are the coolest. I want to be that kind of person."

Her comments landed as a quiet mission statement from one of K-pop's most durable stars. After two decades of moving between music and acting, IU is framing her next chapter not around a single project, but around the long game.