Lee Hyori launches yoga studio Ananda in Seoul with strict no-photo policy during classes

Lee Hyori has begun a new chapter as a yoga instructor by opening her studio Ananda in Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun District, Seoul.

The launch was held as a soft opening and quickly became a hot topic. Lee offered one-day yoga classes throughout September, each priced at 35,000 KRW (about $25), and tickets sold out in advance.

Lee first began teaching yoga in July 2016 at Ananda in Jeju Island. Speaking about the move to Seoul, she said, “For me, it was simply relocating the studio, so I did not expect such attention. I know this excitement will eventually settle down.”

Before classes, Lee posted her own notice asking participants not to take photos or videos during practice. She added that photos could be taken freely after the session. “It is difficult to take photos one by one, so we will only take a group photo together after class,” she explained.

One participant wrote, “I learned yoga from the superstar Lee Hyori. Her voice was so calm and soothing that it naturally brought inner peace.” The student also shared a lighthearted comment about portrait rights while posting a candid image of Lee interacting with the class. Lee later shared the post herself.

To celebrate the opening, Lee handed out traditional rice cakes to students and local business owners. A former student from Jeju also attended, recalling, “She was my first yoga teacher when I started at Ananda five years ago. Meeting her again today was an incredible surprise. She even recognized me, which left me so grateful.”

Another student described the new Seoul studio as “the hottest spot,” adding, “My first yoga teacher was Lee Hyori and my first yoga studio was Ananda in Jeju.” Lee responded warmly, saying, “We will meet anytime.”

Group photos shared by Lee soon circulated online, drawing comments such as “A truly dedicated practice, very inspiring,” “She remembered a student after five years,” and “She has been quietly living her best life.”

After class, many participants posted their own reviews. While Lee maintained a no-filming rule during practice, she appeared afterward in comfortable workout clothes without makeup, smiling and talking with students. She also shared their posts on her own channel.

With her Seoul debut as a yoga instructor now underway, Lee Hyori’s Ananda has already become both a new beginning and a place of reunion for her students.