From Idol to actor: Ateez's Yunho opens up on prioritising self-care; shares how it keeps him grounded

Ateez's Yunho, often celebrated for his vibrant energy, is stepping into new territory as both an idol and actor. Known as the group's towering mood-maker, he recently appeared in the short drama 'Electronic Brain Manager Jeong' and the music film 'Back! Stage'. Despite his busy schedule, Yunho continues to prioritise harmony among his group members.According to MK Sports, he believes confidence blossoms from supportive words exchanged within the team, a ritual that fuels Ateez's remarkable growth. In the group's early years, Ateez grappled with limited performances and even faced songs being cut from setlists. Yunho recalls how desperation pushed them to treat rehearsals like real stages. Their persistence has since paid off, with their single breaking into the Billboard Hot 100 and tours now reaching stadiums worldwide. Yunho admits there were moments when he felt like "a nobody," but self-reflection helped him rediscover strength by savouring simple joys such as favorite foods and moments in nature. Yunho is known among fans for small but meaningful gestures. Whether ordering meals for bandmates or preparing thoughtful treats, he finds joy in giving back. His bond with member Mingi, he noted, is particularly strong, characterized by unspoken understanding and mutual care. At the same time, Yunho stressed the importance of self-love, explaining that positive energy toward others starts with maintaining his own health and mindset. As part of a cooking series, Yunho took on a special mission to create a nutritious dish: tofu tiramisu for leader Hongjoong. With soy-based ingredients like tofu, soy milk, and doenjang, the dessert highlighted soy's protein-rich and antioxidant qualities. Though new to the kitchen, Yunho successfully crafted the treat, proving his thoughtfulness extends beyond the stage. His simple yet meaningful cooking reflects his philosophy - that caring for others can be a form of healing for himself.