Hyeri Steps Out for First Time Since Body Backlash Ahead of New ENA Drama

Actor Hyeri, a former member of K-pop girl group Girl's Day, has stepped back into the spotlight weeks after online chatter about her figure at a fan meeting. On Wednesday, she shared a set of photos on her social media with the caption "full of happiness," offering fans a first look at her since the buzz began last month.

The photos were behind-the-scenes shots from the press conference for ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama "Dream For You" (Geudaeege Deurim). Hyeri wore a black sleeveless mini dress with strap heels, a clean and modern look. The dress traced her waist naturally, and the A-line skirt played up her proportions.

An asymmetric hem and lace detail on the skirt gave the all-black styling a small twist, while black-and-silver glitter heels added shine. She wore her long hair straight and down, posing with her arms folded or her chin resting on her hand. The overall mood landed somewhere between fresh and city-cool. Most notably, her trim figure stood in clear contrast to the so-called "belly fat" talk that had spread online last month.

That chatter began at "2026 Hyeri Asia Tour Fan Meeting in Seoul," held last month. She wore a form-fitting outfit on stage, and a mix of lighting, camera angles, and fabric made her midsection look fuller than usual in some shots. The clips spread online and turned into a wave of comments about her body, though many fans pushed back, saying it was simply an optical illusion.

Hyeri addressed the talk herself through a fan communication platform. "Honestly, I like myself the way I am, but people watching might think that's not professional," she wrote. "I don't really get why you have to be thin to look professional, but if Hyerumi wants it, I'll try. I'll work out and stay healthy." "Hyerumi" is the nickname for her fan base.

The press conference drew extra attention as her first official appearance since the controversy. In the photos, she showed off a lean silhouette even in the close-fitting black dress, looking much the same as before.

"Dream For You" premieres Monday at 10 p.m. KST on ENA.