Jessica Jung Brings Love to Singapore: 'Born to Be a Role Model for My Sister'

Visiting the Lion City to participate in a charity event, Korean star Jessica Jung radiated positive energy by cheerfully shouting 'Jiayou!' in Mandarin.

On July 30th (Thursday), Jessica Jung attended the 'Lim Wei Jie – Heart & Art in Unison Award' ceremony, organized by the North-East CDC and the Lim Family Foundation. The ceremony was held at the Fullerton Hotel. In addition to Foundation representative Lim Wei Jie and Jessica Jung, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Heng Swee Keat, as well as Senior Minister of State for Transport and for Culture, Community and Youth Baey Yam Keng, were also present at the event.

Before the awards ceremony, Jessica Jung told the media that her special trip to Singapore was not only because of her over ten-year deep friendship with Lim Wei Jie, but also because they share the same values. Speaking about supporting creators with special needs, she said: "Opportunities are hard to come by. I think giving this kind of support will help these artists develop in the future."

Lim Wei Jie also felt Jessica Jung was the perfect choice for the event. He said: "There are many interactive segments with the award winners during the ceremony, so inviting her was a very natural choice. She embodies many of the same values, and I'm very happy she was able to make time to attend this year."

The Presence of Family Keeps Her Humble

The awards ceremony is themed 'Shaping the Soul'. When asked if anyone has played an important role in shaping hers, Jessica Jung said: "Definitely my family and my mom. To this day, they continue to shape my soul, keeping me humble and grounded, as well as happy and loved."

A reporter curiously asked whether she contacts her family every day. She laughed and pointed at her phone, "Yes, my phone never stops buzzing."

Growing up in such an environment, Jessica Jung naturally became a role model for her younger sister Krystal Jung. Talking about her sister, who debuted as an idol group member five years after her, she said: "It's only natural for her to follow in my footsteps. I also feel that I was born to be a good example for her—guiding her, paving the way, and clearing obstacles."

She also revealed that she used to give her sister a lot of advice, but now Krystal has her own ideas and opinions. "We still communicate often and talk about everything."

Joking That She Can Only Draw Stick Figures

During her speech at the dinner, Jessica Jung encouraged the audience with her own experiences: "Growth is rarely smooth sailing. Every challenge teaches you something new and helps you discover strengths you never knew you had. In life, there will always be hard times, but never let that stop you. Your perspective is important and so is your voice, because you are unique in this world."

In addition, Jessica Jung collaborated with special needs youth Liang Sijun (aged 21) to complete a heart-shaped mosaic art piece. She praised Liang's innocence and honesty, "You can feel his inner thoughts just by looking into his eyes, and I learned a lot from him." She also humorously poked fun at her art skills: "I can only draw stick figures… but that's still art!"

Since leaving Girls' Generation, Jessica Jung has, in recent years, been expanding her career in music, fashion, and even published a novel, branching out all across Asia—including participating in the third season of famed Chinese reality show 'Sisters Who Make Waves'.

When asked what uplifting words she would like to share with those in need, she replied: "You have to believe in yourself and listen to your inner voice. I always say you should follow your heart, because the last thing you want is regret." As a bonus, she cheered in Mandarin: "Jiayou!" and revealed: "I say this before I go on stage. Whenever I'm about to do something, my staff always cheers me on with 'Jiayou' as well."

Jessica Jung's most recent performance in Singapore was her 'Diamond Dreams' solo concert in December 2023. As she approaches her 20th debut anniversary next year, will there be another chance for her to perform in Singapore? She replied mysteriously: "Stay tuned."