Training begins from as early as ten years old
Aspiring K-pop idols (known as trainees) are often scouted when they are just children. For some, the long road of training to become an idol starts as early as ten years old. A strict and rigorous lifestyle of dancing, singing and acting practice can even interfere with school life.
Idols are subject to strict dating rules
To maintain their image as pure and approachable, many K-pop idols are strictly forbidden from dating. A dating ban is part of an idol’s contract, and if they want to make it big in the world of K-pop, it’s imperative that they follow this rule. If an idol is caught dating or in a relationship before the contract expires, they could be blacklisted from the industry entirely.
Weekly weight checks are mandatory
K-pop idols are expected to conform to strict body and weight standards, with the average female idol weighing between 95lbs and 105lbs. To achieve this low weight, idols are kept to meticulous low-calorie diets, exhausting exercise regimes and weekly weight checks to ensure they aren’t putting on extra pounds.
Most idols don’t actually earn that much money
With their designer clothes, flashy lifestyles and devoted fanbases, you might think the average K-pop idol is rolling in cash. The reality is far different however, as most idol earnings go towards paying off the debt accrued during training, and straight into the pockets of managers and record companies. Internationally famous K-pop groups might hit the big time, but for most it’s not a hugely viable career path.
During training, idols live in shared dormitories
Forget luxurious mansions or penthouse suites: most K-pop idols actually live together in cramped, shared dormitories. During training, all members of the same group will live in the same small apartment, and are often filmed for reality TV shows. Eating and sleeping in the same space helps idols to form close social bonds, and also means their management can keep a close eye on them at all times.
Plastic surgery is strongly encouraged among idols
K-pop idols are famed for their beauty, but not all of it is natural. As South Korea is commonly referred to as the plastic surgery capital of the world, many procedures are standard and even highly encouraged among K-pop idols. Common procedures include rhinoplasty, jaw-shaving, regular Botox and ‘double eyelid’ surgery, an operation that creates a more rounded eye shape.
Mental health issues and suicide are commonplace
Tragically, a lot of young, talented K-pop idols succumb to the intense pressure of the industry and find themselves struggling with their mental health. Long work hours, lack of privacy and an inability to truly be themselves in the spotlight has led to many idols facing mental health struggles, while some sadly take their own life.
Fans can be obsessive and dangerous
K-pop fans are notoriously passionate and dedicated to their favorite idols and groups. Most of the time, these fanbases use their voices for good, to support the group and help them succeed. However, there are some who take their obsession to dangerous levels. Known as ‘sasaeng’, these dangerous fans have been known to stalk the object of their affection, trespassing on their homes and even physically threatening their wellbeing.
Idols train for up to ten hours a day
K-pop idols pride themselves on their slick dance moves and detailed routines. Practice makes perfect, so to nail these tough dances, many K-pop idols and groups will train for up to ten hours a day, with maybe an hour lunch break if they’re lucky. Weekends also don’t exist in K-pop world, and many idols will find themselves dancing and singing constantly in the studio for six days – or even seven – a week.
Male idols have to perform their mandatory military service
In South Korea, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 to 28 are required by law to complete up to two years of conscripted military service – yes, even K-pop idols. For a lot of male idol groups, this can mean the end of their career, as trends in K-pop move incredibly fast. However, more popular bands find that their dedicated fans will be waiting for them excitedly to return to the stage once their mandatory training is finished.
