9. Why I Like IU

No, that's not a typo for UI (user interface). This blog post is about why I like IU. Of course, I also like UI; I'm a graphic designer for goodness sake. For those who aren't aware, IU is the stage name of a Korean singer-songwriter actress.

Those who have known me long often have endured my imposition of feelings for IU. People aren't even mildly intrigued by the IU calendar (a gift, by the way) they notice in my room. Or the posters of IU on my wall (also gifts). To them, It's plain and simple. He likes IU. They already know that.

Over the years I've received many questions, the prominent one being: “why do you like her?” I think this is a great question. This question surfaces deep personal values and asks, "what values does IU align with?" Whether we are aware of it or not, there is always a reason for liking something or someone. We might not always know what the reason is. However, if recurring questions present themselves, we owe it to ourselves to know the answer. So I did just that, and identified two reasons why my affections gravitate. Here is why I like IU.

1. She's Realized Her Potential

IU stands out among other artists. She's a sensational singer. On top of that she's a talented dancer. Many solo artists don't dance with their music, but IU can pull off both dancing and singing, even on live stage! She even plays guitar at a performance level and can accompany her own singing. She's also a beloved actor. She has been casted the female protagonist in a number of dramas like [Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo]. However, it's not because she's so naturally talented she's the success she is today. She channeled her talent though her hard work and dedication and she realized her potential. I really admire her diligence and discipline. The value-driven mindset she employed to reach her goals really resonates with my deep values.

2. She’s Humble and Grateful

IU is always grateful for those who helped moved her forward. She's active in giving back to communities, especially her high school. After years regular donations to her old High School, she decided to set up a scholarship to help underprivileged students. She's an ambassador for anti-bullying in schools. In fact, she's even been promoted from honorary member of the police force to honorary senior police officer for these endeavors. On personality shows, she's charming but modest. She's always polite and respectful, showing gratitude whenever possible. This humble attitude is something I respect and it sets her apart from other artists. Humility is a rare as you climb the popularity ladder. Although she has one of the highest incomes of all Korean celebrities, she remains humble and treats everyone equally and fights for the rights of the underprivileged. Truly, she is an inspiration.

We value people who work hard and achieve great things. We value the work ethic and feel motivated to do the same. However, what really moves our hearts is when great achievers are humble. Humility is the key to relational fondness. We can respect great achievers, but we only give our hearts to humble people. If IU wasn't humble I don't think I would have liked her, I would have only respected her. It was an introspective lesson for me as well, the more I achieve and grow, my humility level should increase accordingly. Because success without humility breeds arrogance, and no one likes arrogant people. True success is not how much you've achieved, but the relational impact you've left in the world.

Despite never meeting IU, I've been impacted by her to be a better version of myself and win others over through kindness. She's modelled for me how to exercise humility in great accomplishments. That is why I like IU.