Do Daeyoon discusses bipolar disorder and hospitalization during Togeworl’s reunion
Do Daeyoon, a member of Togeworl, has opened up about his struggles with bipolar disorder that led to his abrupt departure from the music scene over a decade ago. In a recent appearance on the July 17 episode of KBS2’s Happy Together: Happy Because We’re Not Alone, Daeyoon reunited with his bandmate Kim Yerim for the first time in 13 years.
During the show, Yoon Jong Shin, who previously judged the duo on Mnet’s Superstar K3, expressed his surprise at their reunion. He remembered personally selecting Togeworl during preliminary auditions in New York and described them as a favorite during the competition.
Togeworl finished third on the show and signed with Mystic Entertainment, but their activities were short-lived. Do Daeyoon suddenly returned to the United States less than a year later.
Do Daeyoon revealed that he was battling severe bipolar disorder at the time, which prompted his decision to step away from the spotlight. He shared,
The reason I had to take such a long break was that I was seriously struggling with bipolar disorder. I had no choice but to step away for a long time.
— Do Daeyoon
Kim Yerim noted the intense pressure they faced after the show, which affected both of their mental health. She recalled Do Daeyoon’s emotional changes and the overwhelming schedule of performances, concerts, and promotions while they were still in high school.
Daeyoon explained that he felt great pressure but did not have the emotional tools to communicate his struggles. He ultimately returned to the US to escape the demands of fame.
His departure came after a painful chapter when his mother admitted him to a psychiatric hospital against his will. Following this, he sought to build a different life away from the entertainment industry, taking on various jobs, including working as a manager for singer Jang Beom June.
Despite the years apart, Do Daeyoon stated he never forgot about Togeworl. After finding the courage to go back, he contacted Kim Yerim to ask about performing together again.
They performed “Fox,” a song from their Superstar K3 days, which carried significant emotional weight for Daeyoon as he expressed regret for their time apart. Filmmaker Jang Hang Jun noted that Daeyoon used the stage to convey his apology and desire for a fresh start.
Kim Yerim reflected on their harmonious blend of voices, admitting that the reunion allowed her to realize how much Daeyoon’s voice complemented hers. Do Daeyoon described the performance as almost unreal, expressing gratitude to Kim Yerim for her perseverance during their time apart.
I’m grateful to Yerim. It could not have been easy for her to promote alone while I was in the United States. I’m sorry, and she worked very hard.
— Do Daeyoon
Do Daeyoon’s return marks a significant moment for Togeworl and represents a personal journey to reclaim the music he once left behind. More than a decade later, the duo is ready to take on new challenges together.
Watch the reunion performance:
For more details, check the sources from Star News and Sports Chosun.