Recently, the Epik High YouTube channel released a video titled “Burnout Survival Guide (Epik High Gives Life Advice),” in which the iconic Korean hip hop group, Epik High, took time to respond to the concerns shared by their subscribers. The video focused on offering guidance and advice about dealing with burnout and difficult life situations. In the video, they addressed a heartfelt concern from one of their followers, a 27-year-old who had recently entered the workforce. The subscriber, who had resigned from their first job due to workplace bullying, shared their emotional struggles and inner turmoil. This heartfelt conversation brought out some profound insights from the members of Epik High, offering advice that resonates with anyone who has been through a challenging experience in their career or personal life.

The subscriber’s message started with the admission, “I’m a 27-year-old newcomer to the workforce. I resigned from my first company due to workplace bullying.” The person went on to express how their timid nature led them to wonder if the issue was somehow their fault. They revealed that despite moving to a new job, they continued to ruminate on their past experiences. The memories of workplace bullying weighed heavily on them, and it made it difficult to approach new people or feel comfortable in social situations. The emotional scars lingered, and they confessed, “I keep blaming myself and don’t know how to break free from these thoughts.” This raw admission touched the members of Epik High, and they responded with empathy and advice that spoke to both the mental health aspect of the situation and the importance of personal growth.

Tablo, the leader of the group, immediately expressed his sympathy for the situation, saying, “You were bullied, so why blame your personality?” His response showed that he understood the depth of the emotional damage that can come from such experiences. It was clear that Tablo believed no one should internalize blame for something they didn’t deserve. Tukutz, another member of Epik High, also reassured the person, saying, “Don’t blame yourself.” These words of comfort were meant to help the subscriber understand that the bullying they experienced was not their fault and that they should not carry that burden.

Mithra, the third member of Epik High, offered more practical advice. He suggested that it might be helpful for the subscriber to change their environment. He explained that sometimes, when you are surrounded by toxic people, it’s essential to remove yourself from that environment to heal. Mithra shared his own experience, saying, “We also went through times when there were lots of such people. Eventually, people who really fit well with us started working together.” This reflection on how the group had worked through their own challenges showed that sometimes it is necessary to seek a new environment where you are better understood and supported. Mithra’s advice aimed to help the subscriber see that a change of scenery could be a crucial step in moving on from a painful past.

The conversation then shifted to a more humorous tone, thanks to Tukutz’s attempt to lighten the mood. Tukutz encouraged the subscriber to build a stronger mentality, offering a powerful mindset that can help cope with difficult situations. “If you live with the mindset that you’ll ignore them no matter what, no one will dare bother you,” Tukutz advised. “Even if they do, you’ll be able to let it go.” His words were meant to empower the person, suggesting that the right mental fortitude could make them invulnerable to the negativity of others. Tukutz’s attempt to make light of the situation with humor also emphasized the importance of resilience. To drive his point home, he joked, “Look at our team. The two of you gang up and keep teasing me like this, right?” Mithra responded with playful banter, “When have we ever done that?” Their light-hearted exchange caused everyone to laugh and provided a brief but uplifting moment for the subscriber.

However, it was Tablo who offered the most poignant reflection of the conversation when he shared his own experience of being bullied early in his career. Tablo opened up about the difficulties Epik High faced when they first started in the music industry. He recalled how they had to endure harsh criticism from producers who openly mocked their music, saying, “Some producers really bullied me openly. They asked me, ‘Why do you make such garbage music?’” Tablo’s admission surprised the production crew, and he further emphasized the severity of the situation by swearing, “I swear to God, it’s true. They’d say to Tukutz, ‘Hey DJ! Get out here and set this up!’ There were so many people tormenting us for no reason.” His words brought a reality check to the conversation, underscoring how bullying can take place in all areas of life, not just in the workplace, and how everyone, no matter their status, can face struggles with others trying to tear them down.

The emotional weight of the conversation wasn’t lost on the audience, and Tablo’s final thoughts carried an important message about resilience and strength in the face of adversity. He explained how, despite the hardships they faced, Epik High managed to push through because their mentality was strong. “Our mentality is a bit strong. That’s how we endured it,” he said. Tablo’s reflection was a powerful reminder that difficult situations are a part of life, but it’s how we respond to them that defines our growth and success. He emphasized that no one is exempt from facing challenges, and it’s important to keep pushing forward, even when it feels like the world is against you.

Epik High’s advice in the video not only addressed the concerns of one individual but also spoke to a larger audience who might be grappling with similar issues. It highlighted the importance of not internalizing blame for things beyond one’s control, the value of changing one’s environment when necessary, and the power of developing a strong mental attitude to withstand life’s difficulties. Through their candid responses, the members of Epik High demonstrated that they are not only artists but also mentors, offering guidance and support to those who need it most. Their message of resilience and self-empowerment resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who tuned in to the video.