IVE Wonyoung’s Unexpected Reading List Has Become A Hot Topic

She recently shared two books she’s been engrossed in.

IVE‘s Wonyoung appeared as a highly anticipated guest during the most recent episode of Salon Drip 2 and decided to graciously share her current reads with the rest of us. However, she might not have expected the buzz her reading list has stirred among fans and netizens online.

People are shocked, and rightly so. The young K-Pop star is diving into books that might typically be found in a university professor’s office, not a pop idol’s library.

| @for_everyoung10/Instagram

The first book that Wonyoung shared she is currently engrossed in is “Reading Schopenhauer at 40,” which was published in August 2023 by Uknowbooks and quickly soared to the top of the bestseller lists.

| Hanbooks.com

The book is notable not just for its popularity but because it marks a rare instance where a philosophical work has captured the mainstream audience’s attention. It taps into the growing trend where age-specific liberal arts books offer insights on navigating life’s various stages through philosophy. This phenomenon, dubbed the “Schopenhauer Syndrome,” highlights a collective yearning for wisdom across ages, showing that timeless ideas transcend generations.

Moreover, the discussion of these profound topics has spilled over from private reading into public discourse, with older readers leading the charge in sharing their reflections online, thereby engaging a broader audience that spans from young adults to the elderly.

| @for_everyoung10/Instagram

The second title on her list is “The Analects of Confucius,” a compilation of teachings and thoughts by the ancient philosopher, gathered by his disciples after his death. The text outlines a moral code centered around virtue, advocating for wisdom, self-knowledge, and altruism. Confucius championed a life dedicated to moral integrity over material success, a message that resonates with enduring spiritual significance.

| Amazon

Wonyoung’s choice of such intellectually demanding material is unusual for someone in the idol industry, particularly someone of her youthful age. Typically, idols might promote lighter fare or popular novels, but Wonyoung decided to break the mold.

wonyoung is so unpredictable like what the hell is this girl reading?? 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/5henHxuXkE

— what (@jangcentre) May 7, 2024

wonyoung saying her hobby is reading and she loves “schopenhauer at 40” and “analects of confucius” and she never told anyone because people might think it’s weird
she’s such an interesting and mature person, i wouldn’t have expected that but it makes me love her even more pic.twitter.com/zPlEy5HeRh

— jen (@wonyobeloved) May 8, 2024

Reactions online have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans expressing their admiration for Wonyoung’s intellectual pursuits and netizens praising her for setting a positive, thought-provoking example for her highly impressionable audience.