Even though the K-pop industry shines brightly in every corner, it has its fair share of issues. It’s not always as glamorous as it appears. There are darker aspects hidden beneath the glitter. Here, I am sharing eight saddest truths about K-pop idols.
1. Fake Personality 🎭
Some idols are required to portray specific personas, such as being shy or mysterious, even if it contradicts their real personality. Many K-pop artists are naturally bubbly, extroverted, and hilarious, but to maintain their image, they often have to act reserved, introverted, or shy. For instance, Heechul from the group Super Junior once had a mysterious image.
However, on reality shows like Knowing Brothers and Little Ducklings, his real mischievous and fun-loving side is evident.
2. Sasaeng Fans 🚨
Sasaeng fans are those who cross boundaries with their obsessive behavior. These fans stalk idols, steal their phone numbers, call them repeatedly, and sometimes even break into their homes. Kim Jae-joong from TVXQ endured significant harassment from such fans. He even wrote a song about them titled Don’t. The lyrics of the song address the toxic behavior of these fans.
3. Banned Dating 💔
K-pop idols are often forbidden from dating until they reach a certain age. While they are active or popular, they are not allowed to have romantic relationships. If an idol is discovered to be dating, they are expected to apologize to their fans. For example, IU and several other idols have posted handwritten apology letters on Instagram to address their relationships.
4. Toxic Fans 🤬
Some fans exhibit toxic traits that are hard to comprehend. Many do not approve of their idols dating and even target their idols’ partners with hateful comments. In extreme cases, they “cancel” the idols themselves. Recently, Seunghan from the group Riize faced backlash when fans sent him funeral wreaths over a dating scandal during his trainee period. This controversy ultimately led to his removal from the group.
5. Unrealistic Beauty Standards 🔥
It is rare to see idols who do not conform to K-beauty standards, such as being fit, slim, and pale-skinned. Agencies frequently enforce strict rules about appearance, and idols who fail to meet these standards face body shaming. Hwasa from the group Mamamoo faced criticism from netizens for her unconventional appearance, while Jeongyeon from Twice was bashed for gaining weight.
6. Exploitative Agencies 🏢
Most K-pop idols are managed by individual agencies that train, support, and promote them. However, some agencies impose exploitative contracts that benefit the agency more than the artist. In some cases, artists are made to work so much that they risk collapsing from exhaustion.
For example, Lee Seung-gi, a singer and actor known for Mouse, didn’t receive profits from his music for 18 years under his former agency. Similarly, the popular group NewJeans recently parted ways with their agency due to mistreatment.
7. High Suicide Rate 💔🕊
The Korean entertainment industry has witnessed an alarming number of suicides.
Many K-pop idols have tragically taken their lives. Sulli from f(x), Jonghyun from SHINee, and Moonbin from Astro are among the heartbreaking cases. This trend highlights the immense pressure idols face.
8. Loss of Childhood 🧸
The career span of a K-pop idol is relatively short, typically lasting from their teenage years to their late 20s or early 30s. To sustain their peak energy for music and dance performances, idols start training at a very young age. This often means they cannot attend school regularly, make friends, or enjoy the innocence of childhood. Under constant supervision and training, they are taught to be professional, leaving little room for personal growth. Additionally, their lives are constantly scrutinized, with even their childhood details being dug up, forcing them to maintain a spotless image from an early age.
Check this out to find out when Seventeen group started as trainees & just see how cute & young they were.
While the life of a K-pop idol seems glamorous and enviable, it comes with numerous sacrifices. To win the love of millions, idols give up their personal lives, youth, and freedom to date. Things are not always as perfect as they seem.
Which of these facts shocks you the most? And what are your thoughts on idols dating?