With the global success of big KPop groups like Girls Generation, Big Bang, BTS, Blackpink, and more, it’s no surprise how many teenagers idolize these personalities and dream of following their footsteps. That’s why many of these aspirants try their luck by auditioning at big entertainment agencies such as BigHit, YG Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, etc. to get their shot at fame too. However, being a Kpop idol is more than just singing, dancing, and projecting in the camera. Behind their colorful lively and catchy songs and music videos, apparently, is a dark side that everyone should know and we’re here to share some of them with you.
Rigorous Training
Koreans are known as one of the most hard workers in the world. And even in this industry, aspirants are required to practice, practice, and practice even while they’re still trainees. In fact, some groups are required to practice for 100 times (no exaggeration) to perfect their steps. Aside from that, even after they’ve debuted, they still have to take singing, dancing, acting, and language classes.
Extreme Diet
Looks are very important for Kpop idols. Hence, most of them follow strict diet plans even before they debut to maintain a certain weight. Momoland’s Yeonwoo even once shared that she was “very fat for a trainee” so she only ate one egg and one glass of milk a day for her diet. Meanwhile, Girls Generation are said to follow the 1,500 kcal diet plan to maintain their slim figure. Some agencies would even closely monitor their trainees and/or artists’ body fat percentage.
No Dating
Most agencies don’t allow their artists to date. A lot of Kpop fans are obsessed with their idols that they expect them to be loyal to the fandom alone. And many agencies create this dating ban to reassure and keep their artists’ fans in the fandom so they won’t lose money. Also, this is to protect their artists as some fans can become too obsessed with their idols that they would even bully or threaten their rumored partners.
No Pictures
Speaking of obsessed fans, some agencies do not allow their artists to take solo pictures with fans too. This is because some might use it against the artists and start dating rumors or whatnot.
Plastic Surgeries
Again, looks are very important in the KPop industry. Thus, many artists are required to undergo plastic surgeries to enhance their looks so people will like them more.
