Not all glamorous
Since we talked about how to be a K-Pop star, it can be easy to think that being a K-Pop star is a glamorous job with huge benefits. While it is true that being a K-Pop star means you get to perform, travel around the world, and earn a lot of money; there are at least 3 reasons why you need to reconsider before you decide you want to be a K-Pop star.
1. Obsessive fans
According to Wikipedia, a sasaeng or sasaeng fan(사생팬) is an obsessive fan of a Korean pop idol, or other public figure, that has engaged in stalking or other behaviour that constitutes an invasion of privacy. Popular idol members such as EXO’s Baekhyun, SNSD’s Taeyeon, and JYJ’s Jaejoong have suffered privacy invasion because of sasaeng fans.
2. Unjust contracts
B.A.P members filed a lawsuit against their label, TS Entertainment, to nullify their contract, claiming unfair working conditions and profit distribution. The lawsuit wasn’t the first in K-Pop scene, and certainly wouldn’t be the last. In the past, 3 EXO members have also filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment for different reasons.
3. Demanding workload
It’s nothing new to see K-Pop artists faint or hospitalized because they’re overworked. Packed schedule and unhealthy diet contribute to idols’ poor health condition.
Photo credit: Author via Canva
