IU and the 10-Year Secret Behind Her Stage Gear

IU reveals she’s used the same in-ear monitors for 10 years.
Her honesty shows dedication and simplicity beyond fame.
From stage gear to charity, IU proves she’s a true artist.

In the midst of her busy career as a top singer and actress, IU once again showed her most candid side in a new video on her official YouTube channel. In the upload titled “IU’s In-Ear 101 | Behind the Scenes of 2025 IU FAN MEET UP ‘Bye, Summer’ Ensemble Part 2” released on October 13 on IU Official (10.2 million subscribers), IU revealed a simple but surprising fact: she has been using the same in-ear headphones for 10 years. This unexpected honesty from one of Korea’s biggest stars instantly won the hearts of fans and made them admire her even more.

The 10-Year In-Ear Story and IU’s Obsession with Stage Details

The 12-minute video shows IU rehearsing with her session musicians ahead of her 2025 IU FAN MEET-UP [Bye, Summer] fan event, held on September 13–14. While discussing her song Eight, IU admitted she was considering replacing her current in-ear monitors. “I have in-ears that are kind of weird. The sound is rough and the microphone is rough too, so I think the audio feels a bit harsh,” she said.

When staff members told her that the average lifespan of earphones is only 1–2 years, IU was visibly shocked.

“Really? I’ve been using these for 10 years,” she laughed.

She then showed the in-ear molds and explained that each singer has a custom fit made from liquid silicone shaped to their ear. IU also mentioned that she’s currently testing different options to find the best possible combination for her performances.

IU also talked about her iconic red microphone, adding a touch of humor. “This mic is very sensitive and high-performing, but too flashy. A performance is about synergy, not just one person working alone,” she joked, even pretending to “talk” to the microphone.

The lighthearted honesty made fans laugh and admire her simplicity even more:

“She’s so frugal, using the same in-ears for 10 years.”

“A true singer who performs from the heart, not just through gear.”

“IU is just built differently.”

IU wrapped up the shoot with a shy smile, saying, “Let’s stop filming now,” after realizing how long she had been using the same equipment.

Her humility extends beyond the stage too. On September 18, IU donated 200 million won under the name IU-Aena to children with critical illnesses, people with disabilities, young people preparing for independence, and elderly people living alone. She has consistently made donations on meaningful occasions such as her debut anniversary, birthday, and year-end holidays. In March 2025, she donated another 200 million won to help victims of massive wildfires in the Gyeongsang region and to support firefighters, and 150 million won for children and teenagers on Children’s Day.

IU’s honest talk about her stage gear sparked a wave of praise across YouTube comments, with many calling her a true artist rather than just an idol.

“She’s working hard as a professional musician, artist or performer. Pretty strictly checking equipment tells that IU is not just an idol, but an artist. That’s why I like IU❤️”

“Regardless of what mic IU uses, her voice still sounds amazing! :)”

“Love watching behind the scenes with IU. She really worked hard for the fanmeet. Her dedication and passion to her craft is truly admirable.”

“IU is so naturally cute. Comfortable in herself and always a delight to engage with! Her content is like a soothing blanket for the soul 💜”

Her interactions with staff also added a playful tone to the video. When a staff member complimented her for talking so much, IU joked, “I’ll be sensitive again next week. So I need to appear a lot on screen early on.”

IU is also busy filming her upcoming MBC drama “The 21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife”, set to premiere next year. The story is set in a modern constitutional monarchy in South Korea and follows Sung Hee-joo (played by IU), a wealthy woman frustrated with her status as a commoner, and Lee Wan (Byun Woo-seok), a prince living in poverty. During the drama’s production, IU even gifted the entire staff 500,000 won gift certificates as a Chuseok holiday present.

Another viral moment came from outside the stage: IU’s airport banner has now turned into a photo hotspot for other celebrities.

“IU’s airport banner has basically turned into a photo spot for celebrities.”

With her sincerity, hard work, and warm gestures, IU continues to prove that she’s much more than just a K-pop star. She’s an artist who has grown alongside her fans since her 2008 debut with timeless hits like Good Day, Blooming, and Love Wins All.

IU shows that greatness doesn’t always come from luxury or high-end equipment. Sometimes, it’s born from dedication and consistency. From in-ears she’s used for a decade to impactful charitable work and heartfelt gestures toward her team, IU proves that simplicity and excellence can go hand in hand. And perhaps that’s why every moment with her, whether on stage or behind the scenes, feels so special.

Sources: IU Official YouTube, EDAM Entertainment, MBC, Sports Chosun, Newsen, TV Report, MK Sports