Creator Shin Sajang (real name Shin Yi, 34), who boasts 2.29 million subscribers, has candidly shared her story following her recent coming out.
Shin Sajang recently came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community by sharing a photo taken with her girlfriend at the Seoul Queer Parade on her social media. She shared, "As I started my career as a creator, I naturally ended up hiding it, but now I want to show my true self without hiding anymore," adding, "I will continue to be the same hard-working Shin Sajang as always."
Following this, Shin Sajang uploaded a "Coming Out Q&A" video on her YouTube channel, taking the time to personally answer questions about her decision to come out, her dating life, her family, and her experiences living as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Shin Sajang explained her decision, saying, "I actually lived openly about my sexual orientation until college. But when I started working as a creator, I ended up hiding it for personal reasons. As I got older, it became difficult not being able to hold hands with my girlfriend in public, and having to constantly lie when asked questions like 'Why aren't you married?' or 'Do you have a boyfriend?' Living a life where I always had to lie felt like living a fake life."
Regarding when she first realized her sexual orientation, Shin Sajang mentioned it was during middle school. She shared, "I didn't originally plan to live openly, but after being outed, the whole school found out. After that, I naturally started living openly." She also took a cautious stance regarding her relationship, stating, "I currently have a girlfriend, but since she is a non-celebrity, I won't go into detail."
Regarding the reactions of those around her, Shin Sajang said, "My parents already knew [about my sexual orientation]. While they don't seem to fully understand yet, they are trying their best to understand." She also expressed her deep affection for her partner, saying, "My girlfriend is someone who makes me a better person. She is someone I can lean on and learn from, both in terms of her actions and her mindset."
Lastly, Shin Sajang sent a message of support to other members of the LGBTQ+ community, saying, "There is no right answer to coming out because everyone's situation is different. I hope my coming out can give someone courage. There are more of us out there than you think. I hope you stay strong."
Shin Sajang has garnered attention for her diverse play videos featuring various sensory props, such as slime and wax-cracking balls.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)