In a recent episode of Kim Jaejoong's variety show, "JaeFriends," viewers were treated to a nostalgic reunion between the former TVXQ member and Girls' Generation's Sooyoung. The two artists, who once shared the same label, took a trip down memory lane, revisiting moments from their early careers that left a lasting impact.

Sooyoung, who became a part of SM Entertainment a year before Jaejoong, recalled a particular incident from 2008 that had become a significant talking point at the time. As Girls' Generation was promoting their hit "Kissing You" and TVXQ was riding the wave of "Purple Line," an unexpected scheduling conflict led to a role reversal on a music program. Typically, senior groups perform after their junior counterparts. However, on this day, TVXQ took the stage before Girls' Generation due to the latter's delay in arriving for their live Music Bank performance.

The memory was vivid for Sooyoung, who described the frantic scene of Girls' Generation members rushing through the KBS building, clutching their candy props, anxious they might miss their slot. The unexpected switch in performance order was a "huge issue" back then, she emphasized. Yet, in a heartening twist, the girl group not only managed to perform but also clinched their first-place music program trophy that day, marking a significant milestone just half a year into their debut.

While Sooyoung expressed her surprise that Jaejoong didn't remember the incident, she also candidly shared the group's feelings of guilt and their curiosity about how Jaejoong and TVXQ felt about the situation. Jaejoong, in his characteristic light-hearted manner, assured Sooyoung that TVXQ probably appreciated the chance to wrap up early and head home.

Netizens were quick to chime in on the heartwarming interaction between the two stars. Comments ranged from praising Sooyoung's candidness and humor to expressing joy at seeing members of two iconic K-pop groups reminiscing about their shared past. Many also highlighted the foundational role both groups played in shaping the K-pop industry.

Netizens' comments:

  • "Soo Young is straightforward and honest as usual, so effortlessly savage and funny. So nice to see SNSD and TVXQ together, like a dream of childhood"
  • "The tears at the end are a deep reaction, reminiscing their past, being able to meet and talk to her, hearing her message to her fans, like in the old days... those are tears filled with happiness and relief wishing Jaejoongie the best and hopefully he can meet more of his formal trainee mates and friends"
  • "I knew from the beginning that we didn't give Sooyoung enough love and it made me sad to hear it from her mouth..they are truly the cornerstones of kpop and they put in more effort than anyone else, it all started with them but even if people know that they don't care..Them rightly deserves their efforts"
  • "A few days ago I saw them watching Taeyeon's concert and they were very close, almost 3 months later and now they are filming together."
  • "Soo Young, don't ever under-estimate yourself. You were fantastic in "Not Others" and looking forward to more dramas. I Love your work."

The episode served as a poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs that come with a life in the limelight. While certain memories might fade over time, the bonds and camaraderie formed during the formative years of an artist's career endure. As Sooyoung and Jaejoong's interaction showed, sometimes it's these shared experiences and understanding that keep friendships alive, even amidst the ever-evolving world of entertainment.