Seoul, South Korea – Actress and singer Nana, whose real name is Im Jin-ah, has spoken publicly for the first time about the harrowing home invasion she experienced last November, revealing the profound fear she felt for her mother’s safety. The 35-year-ancient, known for her work with the K-pop group After School and roles in dramas like “Kill It” and “The Good Wife,” shared her experience on the YouTube channel ‘Sweet Brother Shin Dong-yeop’ alongside co-stars Ju Ji-hoon and Ha Ji-won, promoting their new Disney+ series, “Climax.” The incident, which occurred at her home in Guri, Gyeonggi-do, has prompted a deeper connection with her mother and a renewed sense of protectiveness.
The conversation, led by comedian Jeong Ho-cheol, initially touched upon Nana’s physical capabilities, prompting a question about martial arts training. Nana quickly clarified that she has no formal training, emphasizing that her reaction during the incident was purely instinctive. “I’ve never learned martial arts,” she stated. “I didn’t think anything of it at the time. I just thought, ‘Mom is in danger.’” This immediate, visceral response underscores the terror of the situation and the strength of her familial bond. The incident highlights the vulnerability even public figures face and the courage required to confront such a frightening ordeal.
The Night of the Invasion
Nana recounted the details of the night, describing how she was awakened by her mother’s distressed voice. “Mom was in the living room and I was sleeping in the room. The room was far away from the living room and the door was locked, so I couldn’t hear much. I woke up as I heard mom’s small voice like a blessing,” she explained. This detail illustrates the distance and the initial lack of clarity regarding the unfolding danger. According to reports, a man in his 30s forcibly entered Nana’s home armed with a weapon and demanded money. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in a violent confrontation where the intruder physically assaulted Nana’s mother, including strangling her, causing her to lose consciousness. Nana herself sustained minor injuries during the struggle to protect her mother.
The emotional toll of the event was particularly poignant when Nana revealed her mother’s subsequent regret. “My mom fainted a little because she was strangled and later she said she regretted it, saying, ‘Even if I lost my breath, I should have told Jinya to lock the door,’” Nana shared, using her given name, Jinya. This heartbreaking statement underscores the mother’s selflessness and the enduring fear she experienced. Nana added, “When I heard that story, I felt how scared my mom must have been.” The incident has undeniably strengthened their relationship, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another.
A Strengthened Bond
Nana emphasized that the experience has brought her and her mother closer than ever before. “I thought we would protect each other for the rest of our lives. Through this incident, I became closer to my mom,” she stated. This sentiment speaks to the transformative power of shared trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. While the event was undoubtedly terrifying, it has ultimately served to reinforce the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of home security and the potential dangers that can arise unexpectedly.
ⓒ Screen capture of ‘Shin Dong-yeop’ Nana’s Career and Background
Im Jin-ah, professionally known as Nana, began her career as a member of the South Korean girl group After School in 2009, debuting alongside Raina as part of the group’s third generation. According to her Wikipedia profile, she further expanded her musical endeavors with the sub-units Orange Caramel and After School Red. Beyond her musical achievements, Nana has established herself as a successful actress, with notable roles in television dramas such as “Love Weaves Through a Millennium” (2015), “The Good Wife” (2016), “Kill It” (2019), and “Justice” (2019). Born on September 14, 1991, in Cheongju, South Korea, Nana also participated in the 2009 Asia Pacific Super Model Contest before her debut.
Her versatility and talent have garnered her widespread recognition within the South Korean entertainment industry. Nana’s ability to seamlessly transition between singing, acting, and modeling demonstrates her dedication and artistic range. Her recent appearance on ‘Sweet Brother Shin Dong-yeop’ alongside Ju Ji-hoon and Ha Ji-won, promoting their Disney+ drama “Climax,” provided a platform for her to share a deeply personal experience and connect with fans on a more intimate level.
Investigation and Aftermath
Following the November 2023 incident in Acheon-dong, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do, police launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of the suspect. Details regarding the legal proceedings and potential charges against the perpetrator have not been widely publicized. However, the case underscores the importance of robust security measures and the need for swift action in addressing home invasions. The incident has also sparked conversations about the safety and security of public figures in South Korea.
While Nana has understandably been shaken by the experience, she appears to be focusing on her career and strengthening her relationship with her mother. Her willingness to share her story serves as a testament to her resilience and courage. The incident serves as a reminder that even those in the public eye are not immune to the dangers of violent crime and the importance of prioritizing personal safety and the well-being of loved ones.
As of March 10, 2026, Nana continues to pursue her acting career, with “Climax” receiving positive attention from viewers. Further updates regarding the legal proceedings related to the home invasion are expected in the coming weeks. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of Nana and her family as they navigate the aftermath of this traumatic event.
The incident involving Nana and her mother serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and the potential for violence to disrupt even the most seemingly secure environments. It also highlights the enduring strength of the mother-daughter bond and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a home invasion or violent crime, resources are available. You can contact your local law enforcement agency or seek support from organizations dedicated to victim assistance. Remember, you are not alone.
What are your thoughts on Nana’s bravery in sharing her story? Share your comments below and help spread awareness about home safety.