In a heartfelt and revealing moment, Epik High’s Tablo opened up about the emotional and physical abuse he endured as a rookie in the Korean music industry.
In a new video titled “Mithra Finally Reveals His Hidden Favorite Spot After 10 Years (Potato Pancakes + Spicy Chicken Feet, Let’s Go)” released on Epik High’s official YouTube channel on May 29th KST, Tablo recounted a troubling encounter from his early days.
While chatting with fellow members DJ Tukutz and Mithra Jin about relationships and people they’ve encountered, Tablo shifted the tone of the conversation to something deeply personal and painful.
“Do you remember those seniors who suddenly came in and hit us back in the day?” he asked. DJ Tukutz responded without hesitation, saying, “There’s only one XX that comes to mind.”
Tablo then recounted how one particular senior not only assaulted his fellow members but also summoned him to a private room afterward. The senior told him,
“I don’t like you because you don’t seem very friendly.”
Tablo responded with as much composure as he could muster, saying,
“With all due respect, it’s hard for juniors to act warm when you treat them this way.”
However, he recalled that the senior twisted his words and behavior to paint him as the disrespectful one — a deeply damaging experience for a rookie trying to navigate the cutthroat industry.
Despite such harsh beginnings, Tablo emphasized the strength and endurance of Epik High as a group.
“Ironically, our team never disbanded, and we’re still together after all this time,” he said.
“Maybe you don’t always have to act overly warm. We may not always seem affectionate—we fight all the time—but when it really matters, we’re like family.”
He went on to reflect on the moments that have solidified their brotherhood over the years.
“When Tukutz went through a hard time, we were the first to show up. And when I struggled, they were the first ones there for me. That’s why I hope people won’t fear being called cold. As long as you’re warm to a few, that’s enough.”
Tablo’s candid revelation sheds light not only on the toxic hierarchies that have plagued parts of the entertainment industry but also on the quiet resilience that can emerge from strong, genuine relationships.
His story is both a warning and a beacon: while the world can be harsh, surrounding yourself with people who truly care can make all the difference.
