IU returns to public event as presenter amid health-related hiatus

Singer and actress IU made a welcome return to the public eye as a presenter at the ‘5th Blue Dragon Series Awards’, shortly after temporarily suspending activities due to health concerns.

During the ceremony, broadcast live on KBS 2TV on July 31 KST, IU appeared onstage alongside actor Ju Ji Hoon to present the Best Actor award.

Standing before the audience, IU admitted that the occasion brought back memories of the previous year.

“I thought I wouldn’t be nervous today, but standing here reminds me of last year, and my heart is pounding,” she said.

She continued, “The strength I received from the award last year helped me work incredibly hard throughout the past year,” reflecting on her previous win at the ceremony.

Her appearance attracted particular attention as it marked her first official public engagement in approximately ten days since announcing a temporary pause in her activities.

On July 20, EDAM Entertainment stated that IU’s chronic patulous Eustachian tube condition had recently worsened. As a result, her concerts scheduled for September at Goyang Stadium, subsequent performances, and the release of her sixth full-length album were postponed.

IU also addressed fans directly through a fan communication platform, explaining that she may have pushed herself too hard over the past several years without sufficiently considering her physical condition.

She added that medical professionals had advised her to avoid performing for the time being and promised to focus on treatment so that she could return in good health as soon as possible.

Despite remaining on a temporary break, IU conducted the presentation with her signature calm demeanor and warm smile. Fans expressed relief and happiness at seeing her again, while continuing to wish her a full recovery.