I’m convinced those are internet fans because who in their right mind would show up to an idol meet and tell them straight to their face that they can’t have a girlfriend/boyfriend. I’m sure it happens, but honestly they should seek help.
its so scary how the interviewer started talking about problematic subjects like the lost of control of their life, the suicide rates, the weight lost, but neither the teachers, parents or trainees see it as a problem I have to add that the fact most trainees are minors and I didn't see a single person taking that into account
I will never let my child take participate in that sort of crazy competition, permanent stress, exhausting trainings and pressure. Moreover, they are teens, they are so naive and can’t realise the side effects or consequences
Its every entertainment industry that is full of enablers of the abuse of artists. Kpop is just more in your face about it. In the US we hold a façade that we are different, but we aren’t. If you think any top artist is “free” you are sorely mistaken. They dwell in guilted cages and push the lie that they are in full control of their lives. Its bullshit, and if you’d pay attention when the speak…you’d hear them damn near cry out. Prince said it… Dave said it…. Kanye said it… Britney… So many… People think being a POP ICON is some glamorous lifestyle, but it’s not. It’s literally the trenches. The entertainment industry is like the belly of the beast. Its the point where seedy industries meet and connect. Its some place I’d never want a beloved to be. And to think people are sacrificing so much to be a part of a lie. And to think so much MEDIA (aka writers aka other artists) has been dedicated to trying to warn people of what is going on…but yet….the allure of the shiny façade continues to ensnare people chasing a dream…a dream which most likely isn’t even theirs, it just looks shiny and fun. People don’t know what they’re getting into when they step into that industry, and that’s just the material aspects of it. Don’t get me started on the immaterial aspects. Snare after snare after snare. Its like a booby trap factory filled with vipers and sharks who’d murder their own family if it meant gaining a couple bucks.
because this is normal for their society, they view extreme weight loss as a goal and suicides happen regardless of profession, most koreans don't have control of their life simply due to societal and parental pressures anyway
This guy should do an investigation into the Garam situation where HYBE used her for attention and the fans literally attacked her in thousands. And somehow think thats justified. Her career and dreams gone, over literal bs.
Ironic too because the *rehearsed answers* were about how they're different and special...even though they only give answers that are pre-approved by their agent.
That's the sick business. However, the girls can leave whenever they want. Its the classic Faustian tale of giving up your soul to become a rich robot.
@@kuroyokki7700 That's right. It seems there's only one way and it's not OUT. Depending on the contract, you really have to push it through and do your best to win them and debut otherwise, all your hardwork will go to waste. And also, You will have to pay them back if you dismissed the contract before it's due.
@@vandalg282 99% of the time, they can’t. they are under contract for usually around 7 years unless the company itself disbands them or ends their contract. also, companies that aren’t part of the “big 3” put trainees under “trainee debt” where not only do they pay for training expenses but they also have to pitch in lots of money for the music videos which are on average VERY extravagant and more expensive than western music videos, so the idols are actively put into debt
I laughed when he said that he wasn’t free to do anything he wanted on stage, but he had to be like a doll and everything was controlled and planned… so a choreography.
@@NoctLightCloud That has nothing to do with reading the room. It's his job as a reporter to ask such questions. The mom needs to be aware of what could happen to her daughter.
It’s a pity that you didn’t show corporate relationships with girls and boys from labels and other media figures. How they promote bands, what dance videos they construct, forcing to dance, how to behave on public, what you allow and need to say on Twitter/Instagram and so on...Contracts scandals and such There is a feeling of some kind of understatement
should have delved deeper into how much debt they will be in especially if they don't end up being successful, any other business it would be considered an investment and whether it succeeds or fails, the employees wouldn't be the ones footing the bill
The reason is like in the U.S., kids pay for their own training/lessons before they get famous. If the idols trainees train with the company, that's why they have to pay it back.
And that's why many come from families with money (middle to upper classes) for working class teens it's too difficult to afford the trainee life for the years it lasts. Working class people are very few, almost nonexistent in the entertainment industry, not only in South Korea but in the rest of the world too.
It's like they are trapped, signed on at a young age not knowing what they are looking for, and no matter how brutally their label treats them or how hard public life is. It's alarming.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
If you even do a part two, please interview more former idols. Some of them don’t fair well years in. From broken bones caused by malnutrition and excessive training to other issues.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Aespa once said in an interview that they sleep 5 hours per WEEK during promotions, and it hasn't left me since. That's legit scary. Edit: it's from a 2023 interview, do some research. And your replies are just a testament to how horrific these conditions kpop idols are under that you quite literally don't believe it.
@@ND-kh5yw I think its an exaggeration, if they genuinely had such little sleep over the course of a week or two, it would come with major cognitive difficulties, they would struggle to perform and likely have trouble remembering the choreo and lyrics, they would have trouble with basic coordination too, etc I think they’re not accounting for things like the naps they take during the day. if you watch behind the scenes content of idols they take short naps quite often during promotions and also i cant find the vid but snsd said that when they were at their busiest they had so much caffeine to stay awake that their hands would have tremors 😨
I think you need a part 2 into this because it gets much, much worse. Sincerely, a Kpop fan who's been worrying about the wellbeing of these idols (as well as the power some idols exert and abuse) for the past 16 years.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Why not focus on your own life instead of worrying about and obsessing over people who are essentially strangers to you? Fans need psychotherapy as well
@@blackbird6001 i think its normal to worry about the wellbeing of people you do not know as long as it doesn’t become parasocial (which wasn’t implied in the original comment at all)? that’s how human beings work, and people not worrying about it is how the industry got into this situation in the first place
I'm new to K-Pop and would love to know more about this rabbit hole. Open for discussion if you are down. I used to work with a few record companies over here in the West and have seen/heard some horrible things first hand. I'm wondering if the K-Pop industry is worse.
The member from candy shop is currently on temporary hiatus for health reasons, which just means that she isn't participating with the others for promotions, training ect. But it is quite uncertain if she will stay in the group as the company added a new member, a 'replacement' so they can promote as four. Now the question is will she stay and will they become a 5 member group or will she leave officially (there has been no announcement so far) ? Most companys don't just replace members of their groups. Those that constantly change them are always also highly controversial and in most cases not that popular.
They did this with Hyeran Noh, an original member of Brave Girls. They said she’s just gonna go on hiatus, but she never returned. Sad because she was a very good rapper and she was one of the last 2 originals of the lineup + they weren’t on the lineup when rollin got viral
When they showed her dancing in the first clip I was like "I'm starting to realize why so many idols are injured with foot and leg injuries" 😅 that foot work in that choreography is CRAZY. It looks like their legs have no bones🐙
13:06 "To truly represent kpop culture you must cut their roots" This painting is amazing !!!! This guy has a lot of potential in arts !!!! *HOW TO ORDER THIS PAINT ?????*
How robotic the girls from Candyshop looked, how their managers were basically their speech filter, and then how Minsoo from TeenTop points out that the industry just want the idols to be like "dolls" to be controlled remind me of how North Korean people behave whenever they are in public with foreigners filming. (':
it's insanity since the rookie groups copy and paste what's already been done and expect to emerge as something new because they're somehow "different"
That's why NewJeans got so big so quickly, they went completely the other way and did their own thing that was conceptually different to what other groups were doing.
As a fan of kpop, I can safely say that there are fans who don't mind if a kpop idol is in a relationship, smokes a cigarette or drinks as long they don't commit a crime while doing it. Sadly, there indeed are fans that do imagine their favorite idol as 'perfect', which puts a lot of pressure on the idol, the company, and the staff working with the idols. Some idols can't keep up this image and want to quit. Some successfully do and get new careers (whether it's a 'normal' job or still in the entertainment industry, aka acting, etc..). Sadly, some aren't as successful and take their own life. I hope that we as fans can start to learn that idols are human beings like us and that they also are just doing their job, like us.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
exactly. i’ve stabbed twice since 2019. in that time, i’ve seen them drink, have relationships, have (mental) health struggles and other things that they are very open about. it’s mostly bc they are under jype and it’s sad that other companies, especially the bigger ones, can’t give their groups similar openness.
One major thing should be changed-quit calling them idols. They are not gods/ perfect people. Expectations this high are very difficult to live up to for years on end.
@beth5870 yeah I agree as kpop fan I've tried to just call them artist instead of idol.. idol puts them on a pedestal and puts insane pressure. They are artist and deserve a safe space to do what they want
@@BebobopapGUM People call them idols because the 'artists' themselves call themselves 'idols'... most likely, the idea of an entertainment company from a few generations ago. We people are simple-minded and just follow along almost anything (just like taking over certain behavior or speech) However, I do agree with the statement to call them artists even tho I'm used to calling them idols.
I casually enjoy kpop, and it's definitely difficult to defend ALOT of it to an outsider.... The kpop scene is very different from what we're used to in the western music. K-agencies have found a new formula, giving fans a feeling of a close relationship with idols, it's blessing and a curse... But the money is pouring in for those fortunate few
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Those types of stories are all too common in the industry. A young hopeful works hard to debut but the group is not a success. I've seen it happen many times. Only a very few are lucky to become as big as Blackpink or BTS.
Candy shop, Young Posse is few of current rookie groups come from very small company. They will have almost non-existent promotions since their company can't pay most mainstream tv and online studios to promote their group. Back then, groups like them will promote in the streets with no proper audio sistem and jump to one cheep small concert to another ones at least 4/5 stages per day in whole week. It's 10 times more tiring than groups came from BIG 4 companies. Most of these group commonly will have got attention if one or two members got public recognitions from fancam or viral short videos.
Usually groups debuting under one of the Big 4 entertainment companies have easier paths to success...Unfortunately for those groups debuting under smaller companies, they'll have to move mountains to be successful.
I love kpop so much (been a fan for 7 years and counting) but i can acknowledged this ugly side and I completely resent it. However, the problems in the kpop industry are just extensions of cultural norms/issues in South Korea. If we want the issues within the kpop industry to be resolved then South Koreans have to start reflecting on the issues of their culture in order to start change (which I believe is happening now but slowly).
right? when the reporter at the end said they will lose all of their freedom when they become idols, i thought - young people in SK have already lost their freedom because of their horrifically intense and competitive schooling system. then things are just as intense while they search for a job and start their careers. i think the reason so many young people want to become idols is that they see idol life as an escape from real life, which is arguably just as bad.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Exactly. And that's why the parents and teachers don't see anything wrong with the youngsters striving to be idols. At the end of the day it's a career that comes with certain restrictions that they are aware of before signing up. It's us westerners that feel so stressed when we get in to kpop because it's so alien to have to abide by so many rules!
I honestly do think the use of the term "agent" is incorrect. It's their manager.....he is employed by their company and represents the company (in this case Brave Ent). The traditional sense of the word "agent" people in the west think of CAA or WME in which the agent represents the artist and fights for their needs. In korea, the manager represents the company's needs. It's a distinct difference that if you extrapolate, highlights the crazy structure of entertainment in korea. A lot of people here are complaining that fans shouldn't treat their idols like objects but the reality is, it's no different then what their companies are doing. They are just money making entities for the companies....no more/no less. It's no different than how Mercedes might treat a car off the lot
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
I was afraid this would be yet another "dark side of kpop" story done in a lascivious way that dehumanizes the idols and reduces the art form to people acting as marionettes. Thank you for an insightful and well rounded look at some of the issues in the industry.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
It's just unfortunate Candy Shop debuted with BABY MONSTER, ILLIT, and UNIS. Those 3 are the most popular girl groups that time then KIOF having a comeback makes it worse and now the competition is more difficult for smaller groups but well, it's not like it's the end of the line for them. They can still make their name bigger in their next comeback
They mentioned Karina’s dating issue… wild 4:52 B2ST/Highlight are really talented!!! 9:58 Teen Top C.A.P. Smoking controversy. He was the leader of Teen Top btw 21:06 Candy Shop debut showcase. They sadly got overshadowed by other groups during that debut.
What happened to the Candy shop is just plain sad and unfortunate. They debuted with popular groups like baby monster, ILLIT. and even UNIS. It also didn't help that KIOF made their comeback at that time.
@@RedRedRed0-0 even Rescene which was from an entirely new agency, generated more album sales than them (33,000 vs Candy Shop at 1,300), that’s despite Candy Shop being from a very popular producer (Brave Brothers)
@@ajorbista Well the girl group competition for popularity is extremely difficult and unfair right now in 5th gen. Rescene and Candyshop should improve everything for their next comeback to get the needed attention for their popularity, oh even Rescene is getting forced to do public busking in public parks to promote their group and songs unlike the groups of UNIS, ILLIT, and BAEMON who are already performing in mega concerts, large stages and even overseas. So smaller groups should step on their game or they'll get eaten by those 3 big groups.
@@RedRedRed0-0 Rescene is doing pretty good for a new group under a very new agency unlike Young Posse (which is from DSP, which was formerly one of the agencies with very popular artists such as Fin.KL) and Candy Shop. They just need to make sure they’re well promoted and make the most of their promotions (like what Unis does) to continue the momentum.
4:33 they are actually allowed to drink. There are literally variety shows centered around the intense drinking culture in korea that idols attend and drink alcohol on.
@@seal3081 True, I mean idols should be allowed to drink occasionally if they want to. But these variety show just glorify the consumption of alcohol, and especially this challenge to drink as much as possible to prove how much you can handle.
I was into K-pop from 2011-2017. Sad to see that it’s still as toxic as ever. The fact that they provide little to no emotional support for their young talent is why the mental health crisis will never change. This is just one of many reasons why I don’t support it anymore.
Even when they do to extend, people still miss signs or put impossible standards, even fans from non Asian cultures put the bar too high, even tho is old situation we know what happened with Jonghyun, he literally had tattoo pointing his poor mental health and people still didn`t pay attention
Well, the 2nd gen is much worse brow. You think underaged girls dancing provocatively? Ehem you know what I mean dude. I became part of kpop fandom since 2009 hahahaha. SO this generation? It's just like the kids ooops i mean the fans want their idols to be stone, but before, the 2nd gen are more carefree, but the concept is so very SEXY. like wth
Try to imagine from other Nationalities wants to become a KPOP idol! It could be 5 times harder coz the barrier of the Language, they have to learn hangol but thats only one aspect. thats why it is really impressive on how many Filipinos now are becoming KPOP idols such as Lapillus, Horizon, KATSEYE, UNIS, TOZ etc with Filipino members on it. they’ve become the next wave of KPOP idols together with mainstay Koreans, Japanese, some Chinese, Americans, Taiwanese, & Thais.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
But they aren't all popular they are just b list seriously popular idols like Lisa or NATTY are examples those girls are hardly even known they didn't really make it just because they debuted does nit mean they are successful some popular from their same countries like Philippines people are the only ones who really cheer them on doesn't really count
@@eeeyea9304 Filipino KPOP idols are talented in fact way too talented coz Filipinos are known to the world as talented singers as evident by the rising of PPOP lead by SB 19 hitting top 10 in the US billboard with Gento and recent single Moonlight. True, They are yet to be popular like Lisa but on the talent Standpoint, There’s no denying that Filipinos are the next wave of KPOP idols simply because they are just that good and more Filipinos will debut as KPOP idols together with Koreans, Japanese, Some Chinese, Americans, Australians, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Australians, & Thais.
Looking at Katseye, foreigners have it easy, they only trained for a few months... Koreans train for years and years. That is why if Katseye goes to Korea, they won't be able to compete with the big boys and girls there.
possessive is such a real way to describe it. Ive talked to a few of them. "I spend so much money on them, so they shouldn't let me down." So.... dont spend any money? like come on, its was your choice.
For them is make it or break it. It’s good if u have a dream for something ur passionate about but this whole industry is literally a business closer to human trafficking the only profit is labels and idols are just liability products strict to only a caged life.
Though some are naturally talented to be able to sing and dance but they are just a billboard selling hopes and dreams what they think it’s a lifestyle to an easy life but record labels are the devils and ur just selling ur soul . Imagine fans dictating ur life of who you should be instead of what u do best to express urself in ur music.
@@edster8416 ""lented to be able to sing and dance but they are just a billboard selling hopes and dreams what they think it’s a lifestyle to an easy life but record labels are the devils and ur just selling ur soul . Imagine fans dictating ur life of who you should be i" you said that like the kpop industry is the only industry whereits happen when western genre like rock and hip hop have far higher body count.how many rappers died by homicide? too many to count.how many rockers died by suicide? too many to count.
funny that when discussing cap's controversies they left out him going on a rant on television about how a woman's place is at home and how if his future daughter ever tried to go out he would beat her up, which resulted in a huge controversy for his group during the peak of their career, which was a reason for why a lot of the fandom turned so harsh towards him. doesn't really change what he said and this is a good video but i wish we got new input from other ex-idols, especially female ones who were under even stricter rules and got hate for way less.
Hmm, if the woman is able to manage house and job well then I don't see an issue. He needs to change his thinking. I know a lot of women who work outside and then come home and manage home quite well..they even take care of kids well.
@@arihantkumar6469 the problem with that is men still think that the woman's job is taking care of the house. regardless of whether she has a 9-5 or is a stay at home wife. Instead of house work being a thing everyone does
@@lordtette yup. studies show that women who earn more than their husbands still do the vast majority of the housework. men can opt out of being providers but women can't opt out of being housemaids.
yeah this is what i was thinking too + he had another mini controversy somewhat recently bc niel revealed cap hit him hard enough once that he got a whole bruise the day before a music show… like this is not the man that should be speaking for all ex idols, ppl are harsh against him bc he has acted very bad in the past
@@jiaverse yeah i saw that. he definitely had power trips in the group and shouldn't have been made a leader but to be fair teen top is notorious for being a group where everyone got into awful physical altercations with each other. teen top after all was just a group of literal children living in a cramped dorm while having to endure an inhumanely hectic and taxing lifestyle.
I work in this Music Industry here in London and I have done for many years - since I i was very young. Writing and producing for a lot of very successful bands and artists both here and in the States. I have also worked with a lot of very successful Kpop and Jpop bands and artists. This documentary really is just scratching the surface. Its brutal 😳🇬🇧
@@mariyannuism The Jpop industry - absolutely. Nowhere near as bad here in the UK though but then we don't really have bands which reach those stratascopic levels of superstardom. I can think of bands like "One Direction" but that's mainly due to marketing. Their live shows didn't hold a candle to the energy, staging, and live spectacle of the Kpop and Jpop bands. The work ethic is insane and I'm often dialing these bands back a bit when I produce them. They would be truly culture shocked when we work together because I don't believe in being super strict or ruling with an iron first to get the best out of artists. I make it super fun, we hang out, eat together and sight see and I try to cultivate a family atmosphere with my whole team, creating a really strong bond. In my younger, fitter days I would work on the choreography too and also vocal training, my way - always encouraging the bands to sing live where possible in rehearsals to build lung capacity. The live TV shows in Japan and Korea like Music Bank still use a lot of voice processing and lip syncing - which can and does go wrong. So I like bands to always be prepared if a show throws them a curve ball. I've seen numerous shows where the presenter suddenly hands the band microphones and asks them to sing acapella to catch them out. I used to hear some horrific stories of trainees being forced to run for hours on treadmills and sing, while being beaten for falling behind. 😳 I thought that was all made up but it really isn't. I explained that's not how I work, it's abuse and nobody is ever mistreated with me. Not my style at all. I won't name the band but they are a Kpop group with multiple units and members - huge all over the world. While trainees, one of the member showed me a copy of his schedule and I thought it was a joke. I still have it. The way each day was divided up was crazy. He was Japanese so was having Korean and Chinese lessons, Stagecraft, Singing ... Then maybe 20 minutes break for lunch and then dance training until 2 or 3am. Every day. Then a new list of Korean and Chinese words to learn for the next day's lessons and in total one hour bedtime. It's not unusual for members to get sick or confused. I remember certain NCT members used to get ill a lot because they were in so many sub units that on promotional tours, they would often forget which country they were in.
@@NigelShepherd-z7k omg i just realised you said hes japanese so its… Yuta? Lol the new maknae of nct who got added through lastart is only a year older than me and I couldn’t imagine being an idol, even if i love kpop the trainee system is just not for me 😩
The problem is there is too many Idols coming out. Korea doesn't have unlimited space for music shows plus now there are foreigners coming in too. That is why most Kpop idols use SMS to spread their fame. BTS also became famous that way. If you cant be popular with your own charm you cannot survive in Korea's Kpop market. Its too competitive.
I hope this is a series.There's still so much to mention, like the complexity of company contracts, and staged/fixed Kpop audition shows. There's also the wonder of the street scouted idols who have stories that sound like fate.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
ok but to defend angels here (teen top's fans), he himself said he didn't like being an idol anymore. what's the point of him staying in a group after ten years if he doesn't like it? also, he makes it seem as if people hated his tattoos and smoking habits, but they also defended him time and time again when he made misogynistic remarks and when he talked carelessly about other people. it's understandable if he felt suffocated, but to paint it as if he's without his own faults which were lack of common sense as someone with a platform, however much unknown his group may have become is so tasteless.
angels back then were not that considerate and they don't change that much, also the company was horrible, they didn't give the group proper comeback, though TEENTOP established some rules back then like the age of debut, and the pop rock combination and catchy dance. He had a contract, if he wanted to live as all the contract jobs they lose his benefits, but if he gets fired he can demand the money for the all the time he worked.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
The painting of the former TeenTop member was absolutely beautiful. It encaptures the Kpop industry spectacularly. I wish the artist success in his life.
Love how the reporter is dancing too, very fun! Anyway I truly believe that industry should be regulated because of the ages these idols start practicing and debuting which in some cases are as young as 10 to 14 and the way the companies encourage the parasocial relationships to uncomfortable degrees and weaponizing that for things like fansigns which encourages mass buying and then dumping of those albums
Am I the only one who thinks the Aespa Dating Scandal was a publicity stunt? Dating is okay for anyone but they do deserve to be called out on other things like the average person would. When they break the law for example.
Thank you for a really fascinating and well-made documentary. As a long-time K-pop fan, I think you addressed some pressing issues within the K-pop industry. When I first got into the genre, I was flabbergasted by the ridiculous (and frankly, dehumanizing) expectations that fans and production companies alike had for their artists. Then you quickly realize (and indeed any K-pop fan is well aware of the issues pointed out in this documentary) that these things are so deeply entrenched that every time an idol gets treated like a human being, everyone pats themselves on the back and congratulates themselves. I speak from very limited knowledge, but it seems to me like there's a self-feeding cycle of never-ending toxicity and unattainable standards between South Korean society and the K-pop industry, which ends up hurting everyone-fans, artists, and staff alike. I mean I can't tell you the amount of times I have noticed an artists and thought to myself that they were incredibly skilled and good looking only to find out that they are considered sub-par by South-Korean standards. Of course, you could extend that argument to any industry or country, but the K-pop industry is unique in the specific ways these pressures manifest.
The plastic surgery requirements and pressure to look physically perfect should also be discussed! Hoping they're able to do a part 2 to this documentary.
it's nice to see this subject being brought into the light. too many kpop fans often think that idols are some robots who need to do everything to please their fans and think being an idol is the best thing to ever happen to someone without thinking of the sacrifices those very idols must make to maintain the job. i hope there's a day where all kpop fans realize that their favs are human too - they'll make mistake, they have emotions, and they're not some mindless doll created to do anything the fans want.
Funny enough I think many people are aware especially internationally. It`s this giant web of rules and "traditions' that still lead to so many bad situations even tho not all people are blindsided or unaware, many also believe partly to some things but ignore others that doesn`t fit their ideas
why is it evrytime i encounter a video when a korean kpop fans being ask/interviewed why they like a certain group of idols,,they always answered "because they are handsome or they are cute" .like wtf arent you supposed to like a certain artist bcoz of their talent 😢
Girl...if boy bands were made of overweight balding men no one would pay to go see them 😂 idols are not artists. Kpop is a visual genre. Beauty 1st music last.
@@oopsydaizy remember that time lisa's fans got angry over dahyun skipping an ad? I mean every fandom has toxic people but blinks are on a whole other level.
9:43 Wow, she is really pretty. One thing that stands out is that, in comparison to her group mate, she does not have veneers. Too many Idols are pressured to get obvious veneers that age them and give them an uncanny appearance.
pls understand that most of the backlash/ control from fans comes from k-fans. international fans are generally more open and supportive of their idols on their private lives.
*A different level of suppressed aggression and cruelty that manifests as bullying idols online. All K-pop fans need psychological help and they need to start focusing on their own lives instead of stalking other people's actions like maniacs* 😐
Not true. I've seen a lot of foreigners on twitter and other socials doxing, making death threats and being disgusting... International fans try to act superior but deep down they are also in a parasocial relationship with the idols.
11:50 Personally, I've been listening to TEEN TOP's songs since I was young. His description of his art is very deep. It can't be enough but i just wanna say thanks in advance for staying healthy there
Dang, I appreciate UNIS more now. Their company lets them do whatever they want and be whoever they want. Their answers aren't scripted and some even treat Weverse like X or Facebook with how random their posts and comments are. Maybe because they aren't just newbies but are basically the first group of their company. They also have like what, a month of preparation before debuting. Even their socials posts years pre debut have the same character and personality as their post debut ones.
@@havensohn3821 Majority of the new gen are all kids. Heck even the ones on this documentary are kids. Almost no one debuts adult idols nowadays. Except when they've been a group that's been training for years before debuting. Kotoko is the only one who hasn't been in the entertainment industry prior to joining UT. The rest have been active for years. And by the next two years, they're the age of the current other gen 5 but with more experience. But like I said, these girls don't have as much rough handling as the others who are micromanaged to act down to a T. They aren't even the youngest group to debut. In 2005 there was Orange (오렌지) . Their maknae was 9 years old at the day of debut.
This needs a series dedicated to past k pop idols current and like this one starters. Definitely some contestants for shows or idols getting ready for green lights to debut.
Most of the idols smoke and dating, and only the delulu fans are in denial. Not all kpop fans are like the young fans who are so controlling. It's not the labels' fault that the idols have to be skinny. It's the toxic fans who criticized idols for weight gains. The fandom culture needs to change first.
i worked for 9 years where i live with lighting production for events, including shows and festivals. apart from the religious people, i can count on one hand those who didn't use drugs, smoke or drink to keep up with the pace. can't imagine why it would be any different in sk.
I really liked this report, as it delves into real experiences from different perspectives of the k-pop industry, unlike other reports I've seen of the same topic. Very well done and produced.
Its pretty ironic nowadays. The fans are changing a lot, some for the better, some for the worse. Recently Jihyo has been revealed dating, and most fans have been super chill about it, and even made fun tiktoks about it, Ryujin was seen with a Vape and she actually got miixed reactions, some fans loved it, some hated it, but the backing those big groups receive nowadays is no joke. I especially feel like JYP groups created a bond with their fans, that doesnt revolve around 100% perfection, which imo is the sustainable way. Bang Chan says what he thinks and even got hated for it, Chaeyoung has tattoos and Ryujin smokes (presumably) vapes. All these small "imperfections" show how sometimes being different, can increase your fan loyalty by a lot. Obviously this also comes with the risk of losing some fans, or even generating hate.
If their mental health is like the Japanese "just stop feeling sad" model then I don't think they know what mental health is - and the high suicide rates clearly show for that.
This is like a factory of humans The world of kpop is so disturbing and scary knowing this idols give complete control over their lives for fame it feels like a pact with the devil
That painting was hard hitting, idol real struggle hapoen after debut, contract issues with companies, scandals, unoess u debut for big 4 - hybe, jyp, yg, sm chances of ur making big down to 0.1%
It’s really interesting that people have an immediate negative image on kids training to be idols but praise young olympians. A lot of the same exact situations in sports and performing arts. There’s also a lot of ignorance over the word “idol” - they’re not just singers, that word has a lot more weight and meaning to it, there are korean singers who don’t have the same strict standards because they aren’t marketed as idols. Being a singer and being an idol is different
It's also due to a superiority complex, they view their own culture as morally superior and more righteous, and they view other cultures as morally inferior and not adhering to the high-standards of their own culture. They probably wouldn't say the same about the equivalent of this in their own culture.
Same with the youth football culture in England. Hooliganism is arguably 10x worse than stan culture. Would rather have my life ended by teenage girls than middle aged men 😭
🍜 I saw a comment under this video saying they're giving east asians a chance to succeed and become successful in their own east asian envi./institutions/systems or it's an industry catered + integrated to east asian values/standards and that such opportunities (auditions/investments/trials/marketing) don't necessarily happen the same way in other countries and cultures. So basically East Asians competing in an East Asian environment or structural institution. That's a point I can somewhat understand whether the kpop industries' morally right or ethical is a separate convo, I can understand what they're saying though. Imo the restriction and standards they put on their "idols" is a reflection of these people's society, cultural values and beauty standards. We might not fully understand it from a foreign perspective or outsiders perspective but to them it's something that makes sense in their world or their culture. In other countries + cultures, the entertainment industries do not hold auditions but simply pick people that are family, close associates within their same social class etc. Occasionally they will do talent shows and auditions but if they can get an already established, well-known celebrity like Johnny Depp and bypass auditions...unfortunately sometimes they will. I've heard of auditions in the west where they get a bunch of people to try out but after all that end up picking someone they kind of already know that's proven their performance abilities in the past or has established a name for themselves in their field. Breaking into entertainment industries in the West can be quite difficult in their own ways unique to the East Asian ways. I notice that sometimes us "Westerners" can do things unconsciously where we push our standards onto other cultural groups of ppl or feel that ppl of other cultural groups should live lifestyles like ours but that doesn't happen easily. Also, vice versa, the influence of other cultural groups cannot convince EVERYONE in the west to follow their lifestyles and standards on things. With social media and globalization the sharing of different trends, ideologies and lifestyles across the globe has been interesting tho.
It's tough. I think the older generations of idols didn't know what they were signing up for while the newer generation definitely does. But its a problem when the kids are so young, 12,13 ect, do they really understand? I think it's slightly insulting to idols and trainees to ask if they know what they're getting themselves into when they're the ones having to live that life while we sit back and make judgements. They've chosen that life for various reasons and all we can do is support them through it. I've lost my idol to suicide and I hate all the speculation around his death. We will never truly know why, let's just remember him and love him instead of only bringing him up in these kinds of conversations. I feel sorry for candy shop. Their company is known for being absolutely terrible. I hope things go there way. A good documentary, many other things could have been spoken about, like the debts, misogyny, young children debuting but also the positive side of the industry too. But it's super worrying that nobody in the industry seems to see theres any issues. Idols aren't people to them, just products. I hope the more people talk the more the industry will take notice...but I worry things won't change.
At 9:05 when the manager comes in to give control what they are going to say is insane. Even though one fan said they have to be more than perfect, you can’t be more than perfect because being perfect itself is unknown off. Let those idols share their passion without being controlled this much.
I'm rooting for Heesoo. I hope she will get in her dream agency and that she will freely and happily debut, the mindset that she have is already very powerful hope she will keep her head up
As a K-pop follower, like any industry it has many negative things but perhaps little by little they have been changing. Unfortunately in Asia the fan-idol relationship is unhealthy, and almost authoritarian. It's as if Asian fans can take control of the idol's personal life, who he dates, what he does every day, if he smokes or drinks. Something that doesn't happen much with fans outside of Asia, outside of Asia fans see things in a more open and normal way. Without a doubt it is a demanding industry, which delivers good things and quality. But the cost of this is very high.
Well, this interview explains his behavior quite well. Alcoholic, gone trough trauma, he probably already had given up his career and he spoke out his thoughts. I hope he will find a better place for himself.
@@Khaphoo the problematic things he was very comfortable saying are not mentioned in this interview. But I won’t go into details, everything is publicly accesible.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Yeah that’s what I was thinking, it’s his behaviour and his wierd comments during interviews and his lives that had him kicked out of Teen Top not a damn cigarette
The woman saying wrong is wrong regardless of being an idol or not, but we don't see regular korean citizens losing their jobs because they have a partner. She is trying to make it looks like is not so bad, but idols are destroyied by the most human thing a person can do: fall in love.
I wish this video talked about the debt that is incurred from student idols that is owed to the sponsoring companies. Some of the debt go into the millions and they commit suicide because they didn’t make it big.
this has been insightful. All I can think of is how much Kurt Cobain would have hated this. It's the epitome of anti-human, anti-genuine art. It's fast food music.
my problems with kpop: 1. debuting minors 3. forced personalities 4. no choice in musical direction 5. no choice over which events they do or don't 6. forced to interact with people they don't like for image/publicity 7. no bodily autonomy 8. infantilizing idols (AEGYO) 9. they can't sing 10. aren't passionate about music, just want to be famous 11. can't dance 12. can't make any music by themselves, only there for appearances 13. Influencing kids to be "dolls" just like them Conclusion: Idols are like Kim Kardashian; famous for 0 talent only looks, most of which were achieved through plastic surgery.
5:39 quite ironic that you interviewed a fan of Highlight on the topic of scandal and high expectations. One of the members, Yong Jun-Hyung, was literally involved in the burning sun scandal and left the group (back the they were known as Beast). Know he is going to marry Hyuna who allegedly was a good friend of Go Hara, who unalived herself, who also was a keypart in exposing the whole scandal and was a victim of Molka, assault and blackmail herself, by her last boyfriend and before she had dated Yong Jun-Hyung.
Crazy part about it is it's like a factory... most of the time these companies have so many that you might think you are going to be in a group and then cut you for the next best thing. Also Korea is VERY big on looks and promoting this type of culture . Perfection. People look at idols as perfection and if they aren't they feel disrespected
There are 2 K-pop shows on VIKI that show how the process is done. No sugar coating. Sometimes it is downright brutal the feedback from actual producers are.. One thing for sure though. These girls that try out definitely have incredible talent. Most are 15-17 years old and have been training for years. In addition to maintaining their regular school work. The shows are : Girls on fire & I-Land2 N/a. Definitely worth a look.
Girls on fire just finished and I have high hopes for the group that will result from that. They will be a vocal-heavy group like mamamoo and probably have much more freedom than a regular gg
You cant say kpop without the dark side of it. You cant escape the fact that they are fighting for their lives while entertaining you with their „perfect“ smiles.
k-pop fan since 2013 , thankfully I've never been this obsessed with , towards, or against idols or groups. So many weird comments I've seen through the years, a lot of those fans truly need professional help. The entire k-pop industry is to blame as well , they frame the idols as the perfect human beings, some of them which abuse their power of fame .
My jaw dropped when the presenter raised the issue of suicide in front of the young girl and her parents. I don't know if he cleared that with her parents beforehand but the subject is far too serious for a quick journalistic surprise moment on camera.
These K-pop fans need to realise their idols are people, not objects. They can be in relationships if they want to. What an unhealthy dynamic.
That is what they sign up for. If they make it, they will be rich and famous.
Unfortunately, it's also the way the industry is designed
And fans attacking on the street back then, but nowadays wars on social media.
I’m convinced those are internet fans because who in their right mind would show up to an idol meet and tell them straight to their face that they can’t have a girlfriend/boyfriend. I’m sure it happens, but honestly they should seek help.
yup, but I think is more a trait from fans in asia, they are the most extreme ones, not only with this but with the haters clubs that only exist there
its so scary how the interviewer started talking about problematic subjects like the lost of control of their life, the suicide rates, the weight lost, but neither the teachers, parents or trainees see it as a problem
I have to add that the fact most trainees are minors and I didn't see a single person taking that into account
Exactly. Like they all just seem so indifferent.
I will never let my child take participate in that sort of crazy competition, permanent stress, exhausting trainings and pressure. Moreover, they are teens, they are so naive and can’t realise the side effects or consequences
I do believe they should've finished school first. Law that not allow them being idol under 18.
Its every entertainment industry that is full of enablers of the abuse of artists.
Kpop is just more in your face about it.
In the US we hold a façade that we are different, but we aren’t.
If you think any top artist is “free” you are sorely mistaken.
They dwell in guilted cages and push the lie that they are in full control of their lives.
Its bullshit, and if you’d pay attention when the speak…you’d hear them damn near cry out.
Prince said it…
Dave said it….
Kanye said it…
Britney…
So many…
People think being a POP ICON is some glamorous lifestyle, but it’s not. It’s literally the trenches.
The entertainment industry is like the belly of the beast.
Its the point where seedy industries meet and connect. Its some place I’d never want a beloved to be.
And to think people are sacrificing so much to be a part of a lie.
And to think so much MEDIA (aka writers aka other artists) has been dedicated to trying to warn people of what is going on…but yet….the allure of the shiny façade continues to ensnare people chasing a dream…a dream which most likely isn’t even theirs, it just looks shiny and fun.
People don’t know what they’re getting into when they step into that industry, and that’s just the material aspects of it. Don’t get me started on the immaterial aspects.
Snare after snare after snare.
Its like a booby trap factory filled with vipers and sharks who’d murder their own family if it meant gaining a couple bucks.
because this is normal for their society, they view extreme weight loss as a goal and suicides happen regardless of profession, most koreans don't have control of their life simply due to societal and parental pressures anyway
"It is hard to see the red flags when you're wearing rose colored glasses."
Tinted* ......
@@EcoUa It means the same thing.
Remove the glasses, problem solved.
This guy should do an investigation into the Garam situation where HYBE used her for attention and the fans literally attacked her in thousands. And somehow think thats justified. Her career and dreams gone, over literal bs.
@@haewymetal yeah..I thought that was messed up too, and somehow it seems to be completely glossed over now
When the staff came in and started giving them answers to say I felt sick
Ironic too because the *rehearsed answers* were about how they're different and special...even though they only give answers that are pre-approved by their agent.
That's the sick business. However, the girls can leave whenever they want. Its the classic Faustian tale of giving up your soul to become a rich robot.
@@vandalg282They can't leave whenever they want, there is a contract between them and the company 😢
@@kuroyokki7700 That's right. It seems there's only one way and it's not OUT.
Depending on the contract, you really have to push it through and do your best to win them and debut otherwise, all your hardwork will go to waste. And also, You will have to pay them back if you dismissed the contract before it's due.
@@vandalg282 99% of the time, they can’t. they are under contract for usually around 7 years unless the company itself disbands them or ends their contract. also, companies that aren’t part of the “big 3” put trainees under “trainee debt” where not only do they pay for training expenses but they also have to pitch in lots of money for the music videos which are on average VERY extravagant and more expensive than western music videos, so the idols are actively put into debt
That picture he painted was so beautiful and sad
"beautiful"?
Lol
It was really meaningful
Lol
I laughed when he said that he wasn’t free to do anything he wanted on stage, but he had to be like a doll and everything was controlled and planned… so a choreography.
Oh my god the look on the moms face when shes asked about the suicides that are happening in her saughters field
ikr? it was quite insensitive of him, tbh😅 He can't read rooms at all.
@@NoctLightCloud That has nothing to do with reading the room. It's his job as a reporter to ask such questions. The mom needs to be aware of what could happen to her daughter.
@@Coyannn as someone with a degree in journalism, thats not how you approach such topic
@@Coyannn he is in korea.he should respect the boundaries of the countries where he do his job.
@@Coyannn albeit a sensitive topic, I think it was a fair question
It’s a pity that you didn’t show corporate relationships with girls and boys from labels and other media figures. How they promote bands, what dance videos they construct, forcing to dance, how to behave on public, what you allow and need to say on Twitter/Instagram and so on...Contracts scandals and such
There is a feeling of some kind of understatement
There's no way they'd allow that unfortunately.
They said they tried but couldn’t get a corporate interview.
Your comment is already biased.
They’re media, not the k-pop bible
@@JohnLee-db9zteveryone is biased
should have delved deeper into how much debt they will be in especially if they don't end up being successful, any other business it would be considered an investment and whether it succeeds or fails, the employees wouldn't be the ones footing the bill
Well, looks like the debt wouldn't be a problem at leastvfor the girl from this video after seeing the apartment her family lives in 😅
The reason is like in the U.S., kids pay for their own training/lessons before they get famous. If the idols trainees train with the company, that's why they have to pay it back.
And that's why many come from families with money (middle to upper classes) for working class teens it's too difficult to afford the trainee life for the years it lasts. Working class people are very few, almost nonexistent in the entertainment industry, not only in South Korea but in the rest of the world too.
Wrong. No one's gonna cover your startuo cost whether it's sports, business or music.
It's like they are trapped, signed on at a young age not knowing what they are looking for, and no matter how brutally their label treats them or how hard public life is. It's alarming.
It was heartbreaking to hear the guy from Teentop talk about his friend's suicides
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
It's not the kpop industry that killed em it was those toxic fans who think they can insult anybody they want
@@Jeezthatbitchsexy industry lets these crazy fans acting like toxic jerks. So the industry is encouraging that sh …t coz of money
@@Jeezthatbitchsexythe industry encourages it so it’s everyone genius
@@blackbird6001 they has nothing to do tho like how many can they sue 1000 or 5000 max
If you even do a part two, please interview more former idols. Some of them don’t fair well years in. From broken bones caused by malnutrition and excessive training to other issues.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Aespa once said in an interview that they sleep 5 hours per WEEK during promotions, and it hasn't left me since. That's legit scary.
Edit: it's from a 2023 interview, do some research. And your replies are just a testament to how horrific these conditions kpop idols are under that you quite literally don't believe it.
I dont see how thats possible. How could you actually sleep that little while being very active every single day and barely even looking tired?
@@ND-kh5yw lots of makeup, prescription drugs or IV. The fact that they're young lets them do it at such a crazy pace.
@@ND-kh5yw
I think its an exaggeration, if they genuinely had such little sleep over the course of a week or two, it would come with major cognitive difficulties, they would struggle to perform and likely have trouble remembering the choreo and lyrics, they would have trouble with basic coordination too, etc
I think they’re not accounting for things like the naps they take during the day. if you watch behind the scenes content of idols they take short naps quite often during promotions
and also i cant find the vid but snsd said that when they were at their busiest they had so much caffeine to stay awake that their hands would have tremors 😨
That's just not possible 😂 try it yourself.
@@divx1001even if you're young, you have to sleep I think
I think you need a part 2 into this because it gets much, much worse.
Sincerely, a Kpop fan who's been worrying about the wellbeing of these idols (as well as the power some idols exert and abuse) for the past 16 years.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
so why are you a fan of this exactly?
Why not focus on your own life instead of worrying about and obsessing over people who are essentially strangers to you? Fans need psychotherapy as well
@@blackbird6001 i think its normal to worry about the wellbeing of people you do not know as long as it doesn’t become parasocial (which wasn’t implied in the original comment at all)? that’s how human beings work, and people not worrying about it is how the industry got into this situation in the first place
I'm new to K-Pop and would love to know more about this rabbit hole. Open for discussion if you are down. I used to work with a few record companies over here in the West and have seen/heard some horrible things first hand. I'm wondering if the K-Pop industry is worse.
The member from candy shop is currently on temporary hiatus for health reasons, which just means that she isn't participating with the others for promotions, training ect. But it is quite uncertain if she will stay in the group as the company added a new member, a 'replacement' so they can promote as four. Now the question is will she stay and will they become a 5 member group or will she leave officially (there has been no announcement so far) ? Most companys don't just replace members of their groups. Those that constantly change them are always also highly controversial and in most cases not that popular.
Brave ent has done this before with their last group & the member never returned.
It's such a stupid thing to do though
They did this with Hyeran Noh, an original member of Brave Girls. They said she’s just gonna go on hiatus, but she never returned.
Sad because she was a very good rapper and she was one of the last 2 originals of the lineup + they weren’t on the lineup when rollin got viral
bro. its brave ent. she will be their first former member. remember brave girls/bbgirls? lineup changes until yoojung left the group
they have julia wearing yuina's outfits... yuina ain't coming back. which is sad because she was my favourite
Heesu is a very bright girl, I am praying she stays strong if she chooses stay within this industry.
When they showed her dancing in the first clip I was like "I'm starting to realize why so many idols are injured with foot and leg injuries" 😅 that foot work in that choreography is CRAZY. It looks like their legs have no bones🐙
13:06 "To truly represent kpop culture you must cut their roots"
This painting is amazing !!!!
This guy has a lot of potential in arts !!!!
*HOW TO ORDER THIS PAINT ?????*
He really tthrew mom for a loop with that question....
She was shocked bless her and she didn’t like it
It was honest question about possible consequences
the question wasn't even about the suicides
She looked so scared it broke my screen
I think the translator said extra stuff to the mom@@pureheartx3576
How robotic the girls from Candyshop looked, how their managers were basically their speech filter, and then how Minsoo from TeenTop points out that the industry just want the idols to be like "dolls" to be controlled remind me of how North Korean people behave whenever they are in public with foreigners filming. (':
Yeah, depressing to see that eerie similarity between what is meant to be democratic South Korea and totalitarian North Korea.
It makes it look like the 2 Korean borders are not so divided anymore when your main cultural representative is basically DPR-K-Pop
This comment is so... ill-informed and Eurocentric.
it's scary honestly.
Needs to be a longer doc
why? there's nothing more to kpop than this doc showed
it's insanity since the rookie groups copy and paste what's already been done and expect to emerge as something new because they're somehow "different"
That's why NewJeans got so big so quickly, they went completely the other way and did their own thing that was conceptually different to what other groups were doing.
@@aternialaffsalotnot really they just were from hybe
@@aternialaffsalotdefinitely
Illit is shit
Yes but doing something new is also risky
As a fan of kpop, I can safely say that there are fans who don't mind if a kpop idol is in a relationship, smokes a cigarette or drinks as long they don't commit a crime while doing it. Sadly, there indeed are fans that do imagine their favorite idol as 'perfect', which puts a lot of pressure on the idol, the company, and the staff working with the idols. Some idols can't keep up this image and want to quit. Some successfully do and get new careers (whether it's a 'normal' job or still in the entertainment industry, aka acting, etc..). Sadly, some aren't as successful and take their own life.
I hope that we as fans can start to learn that idols are human beings like us and that they also are just doing their job, like us.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
exactly. i’ve stabbed twice since 2019. in that time, i’ve seen them drink, have relationships, have (mental) health struggles and other things that they are very open about. it’s mostly bc they are under jype and it’s sad that other companies, especially the bigger ones, can’t give their groups similar openness.
One major thing should be changed-quit calling them idols. They are not gods/ perfect people. Expectations this high are very difficult to live up to for years on end.
@beth5870 yeah I agree as kpop fan I've tried to just call them artist instead of idol.. idol puts them on a pedestal and puts insane pressure. They are artist and deserve a safe space to do what they want
@@BebobopapGUM People call them idols because the 'artists' themselves call themselves 'idols'... most likely, the idea of an entertainment company from a few generations ago. We people are simple-minded and just follow along almost anything (just like taking over certain behavior or speech)
However, I do agree with the statement to call them artists even tho I'm used to calling them idols.
I casually enjoy kpop, and it's definitely difficult to defend ALOT of it to an outsider.... The kpop scene is very different from what we're used to in the western music. K-agencies have found a new formula, giving fans a feeling of a close relationship with idols, it's blessing and a curse... But the money is pouring in for those fortunate few
That's sums it up perfectly 👍
I feel bad for that candy shop group, their management is awful
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Those types of stories are all too common in the industry. A young hopeful works hard to debut but the group is not a success. I've seen it happen many times. Only a very few are lucky to become as big as Blackpink or BTS.
Candy shop, Young Posse is few of current rookie groups come from very small company. They will have almost non-existent promotions since their company can't pay most mainstream tv and online studios to promote their group. Back then, groups like them will promote in the streets with no proper audio sistem and jump to one cheep small concert to another ones at least 4/5 stages per day in whole week. It's 10 times more tiring than groups came from BIG 4 companies. Most of these group commonly will have got attention if one or two members got public recognitions from fancam or viral short videos.
Usually groups debuting under one of the Big 4 entertainment companies have easier paths to success...Unfortunately for those groups debuting under smaller companies, they'll have to move mountains to be successful.
I love kpop so much (been a fan for 7 years and counting) but i can acknowledged this ugly side and I completely resent it. However, the problems in the kpop industry are just extensions of cultural norms/issues in South Korea. If we want the issues within the kpop industry to be resolved then South Koreans have to start reflecting on the issues of their culture in order to start change (which I believe is happening now but slowly).
Every industry has an ugly side, the only difference is whether it gets televised.
right? when the reporter at the end said they will lose all of their freedom when they become idols, i thought - young people in SK have already lost their freedom because of their horrifically intense and competitive schooling system. then things are just as intense while they search for a job and start their careers. i think the reason so many young people want to become idols is that they see idol life as an escape from real life, which is arguably just as bad.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Exactly. And that's why the parents and teachers don't see anything wrong with the youngsters striving to be idols. At the end of the day it's a career that comes with certain restrictions that they are aware of before signing up.
It's us westerners that feel so stressed when we get in to kpop because it's so alien to have to abide by so many rules!
The look on her mom's face when asked about the suicides... 😰Her mom never recovered from that question.☠
The interview didn't ask abiut suicides, probably the translator stuck that in extra
Love the reporter trying it out
His kids must be so embarrassed 😂
@@NyanyiC Its a parent's job to embarrass their kids
@@NyanyiCif he is my dad, i couldn't be more prouder. He is good reporter ❤
Literally The same guy who interview Robert Downey Jr and Quentin Tarantino 😂
He was really good and quite supple 😊
I honestly do think the use of the term "agent" is incorrect. It's their manager.....he is employed by their company and represents the company (in this case Brave Ent). The traditional sense of the word "agent" people in the west think of CAA or WME in which the agent represents the artist and fights for their needs. In korea, the manager represents the company's needs. It's a distinct difference that if you extrapolate, highlights the crazy structure of entertainment in korea. A lot of people here are complaining that fans shouldn't treat their idols like objects but the reality is, it's no different then what their companies are doing. They are just money making entities for the companies....no more/no less. It's no different than how Mercedes might treat a car off the lot
Minors are also under the legal guardianship of their managers. Parents sign them over as trainees.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
@@omgbuffy2276 Really? That's... surprising :(
I was afraid this would be yet another "dark side of kpop" story done in a lascivious way that dehumanizes the idols and reduces the art form to people acting as marionettes. Thank you for an insightful and well rounded look at some of the issues in the industry.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
@@rachael5611are you done..?
So you don’t like the truth about this craft that exactly what you’re afraid of is what happens?
@@sayitasis8326 I don't understand your question
Too many dark side or dark internet videos
It's just unfortunate Candy Shop debuted with BABY MONSTER, ILLIT, and UNIS. Those 3 are the most popular girl groups that time then KIOF having a comeback makes it worse and now the competition is more difficult for smaller groups but well, it's not like it's the end of the line for them. They can still make their name bigger in their next comeback
They mentioned Karina’s dating issue… wild
4:52 B2ST/Highlight are really talented!!!
9:58 Teen Top C.A.P. Smoking controversy. He was the leader of Teen Top btw
21:06 Candy Shop debut showcase. They sadly got overshadowed by other groups during that debut.
What happened to the Candy shop is just plain sad and unfortunate. They debuted with popular groups like baby monster, ILLIT. and even UNIS. It also didn't help that KIOF made their comeback at that time.
@@RedRedRed0-0 even Rescene which was from an entirely new agency, generated more album sales than them (33,000 vs Candy Shop at 1,300), that’s despite Candy Shop being from a very popular producer (Brave Brothers)
@@ajorbista Well the girl group competition for popularity is extremely difficult and unfair right now in 5th gen. Rescene and Candyshop should improve everything for their next comeback to get the needed attention for their popularity, oh even Rescene is getting forced to do public busking in public parks to promote their group and songs unlike the groups of UNIS, ILLIT, and BAEMON who are already performing in mega concerts, large stages and even overseas. So smaller groups should step on their game or they'll get eaten by those 3 big groups.
@@RedRedRed0-0 Rescene is doing pretty good for a new group under a very new agency unlike Young Posse (which is from DSP, which was formerly one of the agencies with very popular artists such as Fin.KL) and Candy Shop. They just need to make sure they’re well promoted and make the most of their promotions (like what Unis does) to continue the momentum.
4:33 they are actually allowed to drink. There are literally variety shows centered around the intense drinking culture in korea that idols attend and drink alcohol on.
I think what this means is they are only allowed to drink in a work-approved setting
@@joyce3003no it’s just no clubbing
Right ive only seen backlash on underage drinking
Tbh that just shows how much of a problem drinking is in Korea.
@@seal3081 True, I mean idols should be allowed to drink occasionally if they want to. But these variety show just glorify the consumption of alcohol, and especially this challenge to drink as much as possible to prove how much you can handle.
There's a new doc about this topic every few years. The fans and money keep the machine going.
I was into K-pop from 2011-2017. Sad to see that it’s still as toxic as ever. The fact that they provide little to no emotional support for their young talent is why the mental health crisis will never change. This is just one of many reasons why I don’t support it anymore.
Is it because you think other entertainment industries are better or morally superior?
Sounds like you’re still into Kpop.😂
@@chriIIeyup Kpop fans are so judgmental themselves.
Even when they do to extend, people still miss signs or put impossible standards, even fans from non Asian cultures put the bar too high, even tho is old situation we know what happened with Jonghyun, he literally had tattoo pointing his poor mental health and people still didn`t pay attention
Well, the 2nd gen is much worse brow. You think underaged girls dancing provocatively? Ehem you know what I mean dude. I became part of kpop fandom since 2009 hahahaha. SO this generation? It's just like the kids ooops i mean the fans want their idols to be stone, but before, the 2nd gen are more carefree, but the concept is so very SEXY. like wth
Try to imagine from other Nationalities wants to become a KPOP idol! It could be 5 times harder coz the barrier of the Language, they have to learn hangol but thats only one aspect. thats why it is really impressive on how many Filipinos now are becoming KPOP idols such as Lapillus, Horizon, KATSEYE, UNIS, TOZ etc with Filipino members on it. they’ve become the next wave of KPOP idols together with mainstay Koreans, Japanese, some Chinese, Americans, Taiwanese, & Thais.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
But they aren't all popular they are just b list seriously popular idols like Lisa or NATTY are examples those girls are hardly even known they didn't really make it just because they debuted does nit mean they are successful some popular from their same countries like Philippines people are the only ones who really cheer them on doesn't really count
@@eeeyea9304 Filipino KPOP idols are talented in fact way too talented coz Filipinos are known to the world as talented singers as evident by the rising of PPOP lead by SB 19 hitting top 10 in the US billboard with Gento and recent single Moonlight. True, They are yet to be popular like Lisa but on the talent Standpoint, There’s no denying that Filipinos are the next wave of KPOP idols simply because they are just that good and more Filipinos will debut as KPOP idols together with Koreans, Japanese, Some Chinese, Americans, Australians, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Australians, & Thais.
I just checked out SB19, didn't know they exist until today - AND I'M BLOWN AWAY!
Thank you.
Looking at Katseye, foreigners have it easy, they only trained for a few months... Koreans train for years and years. That is why if Katseye goes to Korea, they won't be able to compete with the big boys and girls there.
possessive is such a real way to describe it. Ive talked to a few of them. "I spend so much money on them, so they shouldn't let me down." So.... dont spend any money? like come on, its was your choice.
For them is make it or break it. It’s good if u have a dream for something ur passionate about but this whole industry is literally a business closer to human trafficking the only profit is labels and idols are just liability products strict to only a caged life.
Though some are naturally talented to be able to sing and dance but they are just a billboard selling hopes and dreams what they think it’s a lifestyle to an easy life but record labels are the devils and ur just selling ur soul . Imagine fans dictating ur life of who you should be instead of what u do best to express urself in ur music.
Ok kpop apologist
@@edster8416 ""lented to be able to sing and dance but they are just a billboard selling hopes and dreams what they think it’s a lifestyle to an easy life but record labels are the devils and ur just selling ur soul . Imagine fans dictating ur life of who you should be i"
you said that like the kpop industry is the only industry whereits happen when western genre like rock and hip hop have far higher body count.how many rappers died by homicide? too many to count.how many rockers died by suicide? too many to count.
I’m sure Black Pink, BTS, etc disagree. 😂
Yet you still watch Kpop. You must support human trafficking then. 🙄🤦🏻♂️
funny that when discussing cap's controversies they left out him going on a rant on television about how a woman's place is at home and how if his future daughter ever tried to go out he would beat her up, which resulted in a huge controversy for his group during the peak of their career, which was a reason for why a lot of the fandom turned so harsh towards him. doesn't really change what he said and this is a good video but i wish we got new input from other ex-idols, especially female ones who were under even stricter rules and got hate for way less.
Hmm, if the woman is able to manage house and job well then I don't see an issue. He needs to change his thinking. I know a lot of women who work outside and then come home and manage home quite well..they even take care of kids well.
@@arihantkumar6469 the problem with that is men still think that the woman's job is taking care of the house. regardless of whether she has a 9-5 or is a stay at home wife. Instead of house work being a thing everyone does
@@lordtette yup. studies show that women who earn more than their husbands still do the vast majority of the housework. men can opt out of being providers but women can't opt out of being housemaids.
yeah this is what i was thinking too + he had another mini controversy somewhat recently bc niel revealed cap hit him hard enough once that he got a whole bruise the day before a music show… like this is not the man that should be speaking for all ex idols, ppl are harsh against him bc he has acted very bad in the past
@@jiaverse yeah i saw that. he definitely had power trips in the group and shouldn't have been made a leader but to be fair teen top is notorious for being a group where everyone got into awful physical altercations with each other. teen top after all was just a group of literal children living in a cramped dorm while having to endure an inhumanely hectic and taxing lifestyle.
I work in this Music Industry here in London and I have done for many years - since I i was very young. Writing and producing for a lot of very successful bands and artists both here and in the States.
I have also worked with a lot of very successful Kpop and Jpop bands and artists.
This documentary really is just scratching the surface. Its brutal 😳🇬🇧
Are things just as awful in the Japanese and British industries as well? there's the impression that it's South Korea that's uniquely harsh on people
@@mariyannuism The Jpop industry - absolutely. Nowhere near as bad here in the UK though but then we don't really have bands which reach those stratascopic levels of superstardom. I can think of bands like "One Direction" but that's mainly due to marketing.
Their live shows didn't hold a candle to the energy, staging, and live spectacle of the Kpop and Jpop bands. The work ethic is insane and I'm often dialing these bands back a bit when I produce them.
They would be truly culture shocked when we work together because I don't believe in being super strict or ruling with an iron first to get the best out of artists. I make it super fun, we hang out, eat together and sight see and I try to cultivate a family atmosphere with my whole team, creating a really strong bond.
In my younger, fitter days I would work on the choreography too and also vocal training, my way - always encouraging the bands to sing live where possible in rehearsals to build lung capacity. The live TV shows in Japan and Korea like Music Bank still use a lot of voice processing and lip syncing - which can and does go wrong. So I like bands to always be prepared if a show throws them a curve ball. I've seen numerous shows where the presenter suddenly hands the band microphones and asks them to sing acapella to catch them out.
I used to hear some horrific stories of trainees being forced to run for hours on treadmills and sing, while being beaten for falling behind. 😳
I thought that was all made up but it really isn't. I explained that's not how I work, it's abuse and nobody is ever mistreated with me. Not my style at all.
I won't name the band but they are a Kpop group with multiple units and members - huge all over the world. While trainees, one of the member showed me a copy of his schedule and I thought it was a joke. I still have it.
The way each day was divided up was crazy. He was Japanese so was having Korean and Chinese lessons, Stagecraft, Singing ... Then maybe 20 minutes break for lunch and then dance training until 2 or 3am. Every day.
Then a new list of Korean and Chinese words to learn for the next day's lessons and in total one hour bedtime.
It's not unusual for members to get sick or confused. I remember certain NCT members used to get ill a lot because they were in so many sub units that on promotional tours, they would often forget which country they were in.
@@NigelShepherd-z7k
i feel the trainee youre talking about is from nct?
@@davestridr 🤔😁
@@NigelShepherd-z7k omg i just realised you said hes japanese so its… Yuta? Lol
the new maknae of nct who got added through lastart is only a year older than me and I couldn’t imagine being an idol, even if i love kpop the trainee system is just not for me 😩
this documentary showed how voiceless k-pop idols can be, like C.A.P said they are forced to act like dolls
The problem is there is too many Idols coming out. Korea doesn't have unlimited space for music shows plus now there are foreigners coming in too. That is why most Kpop idols use SMS to spread their fame. BTS also became famous that way. If you cant be popular with your own charm you cannot survive in Korea's Kpop market. Its too competitive.
I hope this is a series.There's still so much to mention, like the complexity of company contracts, and staged/fixed Kpop audition shows. There's also the wonder of the street scouted idols who have stories that sound like fate.
clicked as soon as i saw candy shop in the thumbnail. Reality can be so hard for them, it's so sad.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
As hard as it is for people like them , it's harder for people not like them in that country, so
ok but to defend angels here (teen top's fans), he himself said he didn't like being an idol anymore. what's the point of him staying in a group after ten years if he doesn't like it? also, he makes it seem as if people hated his tattoos and smoking habits, but they also defended him time and time again when he made misogynistic remarks and when he talked carelessly about other people. it's understandable if he felt suffocated, but to paint it as if he's without his own faults which were lack of common sense as someone with a platform, however much unknown his group may have become is so tasteless.
angels back then were not that considerate and they don't change that much, also the company was horrible, they didn't give the group proper comeback, though TEENTOP established some rules back then like the age of debut, and the pop rock combination and catchy dance. He had a contract, if he wanted to live as all the contract jobs they lose his benefits, but if he gets fired he can demand the money for the all the time he worked.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
The painting of the former TeenTop member was absolutely beautiful. It encaptures the Kpop industry spectacularly. I wish the artist success in his life.
That's a powerful painting :o
This Minsu guy is doing something far, far more interesting with his life now and than silly K-pop. He's actually become a true artist
Love how the reporter is dancing too, very fun!
Anyway I truly believe that industry should be regulated because of the ages these idols start practicing and debuting which in some cases are as young as 10 to 14 and the way the companies encourage the parasocial relationships to uncomfortable degrees and weaponizing that for things like fansigns which encourages mass buying and then dumping of those albums
the roots of k-pop idols and the toxic idol culture is so beautifully portrayed through his words and the painting even though it's heart wrenching.
The dinner with Heesu was heartbreaking ❤️🩹
So true
Am I the only one who thinks the Aespa Dating Scandal was a publicity stunt? Dating is okay for anyone but they do deserve to be called out on other things like the average person would. When they break the law for example.
Thank you for a really fascinating and well-made documentary. As a long-time K-pop fan, I think you addressed some pressing issues within the K-pop industry. When I first got into the genre, I was flabbergasted by the ridiculous (and frankly, dehumanizing) expectations that fans and production companies alike had for their artists. Then you quickly realize (and indeed any K-pop fan is well aware of the issues pointed out in this documentary) that these things are so deeply entrenched that every time an idol gets treated like a human being, everyone pats themselves on the back and congratulates themselves. I speak from very limited knowledge, but it seems to me like there's a self-feeding cycle of never-ending toxicity and unattainable standards between South Korean society and the K-pop industry, which ends up hurting everyone-fans, artists, and staff alike. I mean I can't tell you the amount of times I have noticed an artists and thought to myself that they were incredibly skilled and good looking only to find out that they are considered sub-par by South-Korean standards. Of course, you could extend that argument to any industry or country, but the K-pop industry is unique in the specific ways these pressures manifest.
The plastic surgery requirements and pressure to look physically perfect should also be discussed! Hoping they're able to do a part 2 to this documentary.
it's nice to see this subject being brought into the light. too many kpop fans often think that idols are some robots who need to do everything to please their fans and think being an idol is the best thing to ever happen to someone without thinking of the sacrifices those very idols must make to maintain the job. i hope there's a day where all kpop fans realize that their favs are human too - they'll make mistake, they have emotions, and they're not some mindless doll created to do anything the fans want.
Funny enough I think many people are aware especially internationally. It`s this giant web of rules and "traditions' that still lead to so many bad situations even tho not all people are blindsided or unaware, many also believe partly to some things but ignore others that doesn`t fit their ideas
why is it evrytime i encounter a video when a korean kpop fans being ask/interviewed why they like a certain group of idols,,they always answered "because they are handsome or they are cute" .like wtf arent you supposed to like a certain artist bcoz of their talent 😢
Girl...if boy bands were made of overweight balding men no one would pay to go see them 😂 idols are not artists. Kpop is a visual genre. Beauty 1st music last.
parasocial relationships is also a kpop market, worse than the western culture surrounding it.
Oh sweety if you only knew... In K-Pop? Never, have you ever seen an idol that looks normal? Because all I see are people that look like Barbies...
the worst is the immature toxic fans
toxic and dumb. easier to get money from them.
Omg the fights I’ve seen are crazy 💀 People were complaining that a fandom name was copied….it was literally the name of a common flower
@@chuuislovechuuislifelilies debate made me angry bc they actually changed it even when it was spelled differently. Lisa fans are so annoying
@@oopsydaizy remember that time lisa's fans got angry over dahyun skipping an ad? I mean every fandom has toxic people but blinks are on a whole other level.
If you want to be famous, you will deal with lots kind of people. That's the risk that you cant control.
9:43 Wow, she is really pretty. One thing that stands out is that, in comparison to her group mate, she does not have veneers. Too many Idols are pressured to get obvious veneers that age them and give them an uncanny appearance.
What y'all "fans" did to Karina was so fucking disgusting.
Most of the fans were Winrina shippers who were mad she wasn’t a lesbian.
it was all korean fans. internationnal fans dont have problems with dating
@@tonistagramwild to say when international fans were the one mad at her for not being a l3sbian lmaoooo
@@リリ-p4v it was just a few and they were made fun of. the others were just a joking
@@リリ-p4v Either way, those that fucked her (and him) over just for dating, international or otherwise, should be sent to the Gulag.
I can't believe its CAP from Teen Top 😭 I'm so glad for him standing up for himself
pls understand that most of the backlash/ control from fans comes from k-fans. international fans are generally more open and supportive of their idols on their private lives.
Right, k netizens are just on another level
*A different level of suppressed aggression and cruelty that manifests as bullying idols online. All K-pop fans need psychological help and they need to start focusing on their own lives instead of stalking other people's actions like maniacs* 😐
Not true. I've seen a lot of foreigners on twitter and other socials doxing, making death threats and being disgusting...
International fans try to act superior but deep down they are also in a parasocial relationship with the idols.
this lie international fans are just as bad
11:50 Personally, I've been listening to TEEN TOP's songs since I was young.
His description of his art is very deep.
It can't be enough but i just wanna say thanks in advance for staying healthy there
That painting was wonderful! ✨I feel sorry for that person who lost their friends!
Dang, I appreciate UNIS more now. Their company lets them do whatever they want and be whoever they want. Their answers aren't scripted and some even treat Weverse like X or Facebook with how random their posts and comments are. Maybe because they aren't just newbies but are basically the first group of their company. They also have like what, a month of preparation before debuting. Even their socials posts years pre debut have the same character and personality as their post debut ones.
Agree with this
Uhmmm isn’t UNIS mostly kids? If anything you should be concerned for them because the next two years are gonna rough especially for them as kids.
@@havensohn3821 Majority of the new gen are all kids. Heck even the ones on this documentary are kids. Almost no one debuts adult idols nowadays. Except when they've been a group that's been training for years before debuting. Kotoko is the only one who hasn't been in the entertainment industry prior to joining UT. The rest have been active for years. And by the next two years, they're the age of the current other gen 5 but with more experience. But like I said, these girls don't have as much rough handling as the others who are micromanaged to act down to a T.
They aren't even the youngest group to debut. In 2005 there was Orange (오렌지) . Their maknae was 9 years old at the day of debut.
😐
Naive as fuck
This needs a series dedicated to past k pop idols current and like this one starters. Definitely some contestants for shows or idols getting ready for green lights to debut.
Most of the idols smoke and dating, and only the delulu fans are in denial. Not all kpop fans are like the young fans who are so controlling. It's not the labels' fault that the idols have to be skinny. It's the toxic fans who criticized idols for weight gains. The fandom culture needs to change first.
Say it louder!!!! The world needs more persons like you.
i worked for 9 years where i live with lighting production for events, including shows and festivals. apart from the religious people, i can count on one hand those who didn't use drugs, smoke or drink to keep up with the pace. can't imagine why it would be any different in sk.
To write an apology letter for dating, to create that kind of pressure certainly makes me feel a majority of them are crazy
I really liked this report, as it delves into real experiences from different perspectives of the k-pop industry, unlike other reports I've seen of the same topic. Very well done and produced.
Its pretty ironic nowadays. The fans are changing a lot, some for the better, some for the worse. Recently Jihyo has been revealed dating, and most fans have been super chill about it, and even made fun tiktoks about it, Ryujin was seen with a Vape and she actually got miixed reactions, some fans loved it, some hated it, but the backing those big groups receive nowadays is no joke. I especially feel like JYP groups created a bond with their fans, that doesnt revolve around 100% perfection, which imo is the sustainable way. Bang Chan says what he thinks and even got hated for it, Chaeyoung has tattoos and Ryujin smokes (presumably) vapes. All these small "imperfections" show how sometimes being different, can increase your fan loyalty by a lot. Obviously this also comes with the risk of losing some fans, or even generating hate.
JYP a big company doesn't ask for 100% perfection?
Such a nice interviewer/journalist! The whole team did a great job to showcase this topic which is of much interest among many.
that drawing of min su from band top teen was so pretty and thoughtful love that
If their mental health is like the Japanese "just stop feeling sad" model then I don't think they know what mental health is - and the high suicide rates clearly show for that.
This is like a factory of humans The world of kpop is so disturbing and scary knowing this idols give complete control over their lives for fame it feels like a pact with the devil
That painting was hard hitting, idol real struggle hapoen after debut, contract issues with companies, scandals, unoess u debut for big 4 - hybe, jyp, yg, sm chances of ur making big down to 0.1%
Hype became a top 4 recently and cube was one of the top 4.. it depends on so many factors and things can go wrong fast
Need a part 2 with this reporter. Hooked me from start to finish.
It’s really interesting that people have an immediate negative image on kids training to be idols but praise young olympians. A lot of the same exact situations in sports and performing arts. There’s also a lot of ignorance over the word “idol” - they’re not just singers, that word has a lot more weight and meaning to it, there are korean singers who don’t have the same strict standards because they aren’t marketed as idols. Being a singer and being an idol is different
At least sports people aren't judged by their looks
It's also due to a superiority complex, they view their own culture as morally superior and more righteous, and they view other cultures as morally inferior and not adhering to the high-standards of their own culture. They probably wouldn't say the same about the equivalent of this in their own culture.
Same with the youth football culture in England. Hooliganism is arguably 10x worse than stan culture. Would rather have my life ended by teenage girls than middle aged men 😭
@@Michelle_Wellbeckyes they are!
@@oopsydaizy what do you mean? Do they get extra points in tennis if they're hotter than the other player?
🍜 I saw a comment under this video saying they're giving east asians a chance to succeed and become successful in their own east asian envi./institutions/systems or it's an industry catered + integrated to east asian values/standards and that such opportunities (auditions/investments/trials/marketing) don't necessarily happen the same way in other countries and cultures. So basically East Asians competing in an East Asian environment or structural institution. That's a point I can somewhat understand whether the kpop industries' morally right or ethical is a separate convo, I can understand what they're saying though. Imo the restriction and standards they put on their "idols" is a reflection of these people's society, cultural values and beauty standards. We might not fully understand it from a foreign perspective or outsiders perspective but to them it's something that makes sense in their world or their culture. In other countries + cultures, the entertainment industries do not hold auditions but simply pick people that are family, close associates within their same social class etc. Occasionally they will do talent shows and auditions but if they can get an already established, well-known celebrity like Johnny Depp and bypass auditions...unfortunately sometimes they will. I've heard of auditions in the west where they get a bunch of people to try out but after all that end up picking someone they kind of already know that's proven their performance abilities in the past or has established a name for themselves in their field. Breaking into entertainment industries in the West can be quite difficult in their own ways unique to the East Asian ways.
I notice that sometimes us "Westerners" can do things unconsciously where we push our standards onto other cultural groups of ppl or feel that ppl of other cultural groups should live lifestyles like ours but that doesn't happen easily. Also, vice versa, the influence of other cultural groups cannot convince EVERYONE in the west to follow their lifestyles and standards on things. With social media and globalization the sharing of different trends, ideologies and lifestyles across the globe has been interesting tho.
It's tough. I think the older generations of idols didn't know what they were signing up for while the newer generation definitely does. But its a problem when the kids are so young, 12,13 ect, do they really understand?
I think it's slightly insulting to idols and trainees to ask if they know what they're getting themselves into when they're the ones having to live that life while we sit back and make judgements. They've chosen that life for various reasons and all we can do is support them through it.
I've lost my idol to suicide and I hate all the speculation around his death. We will never truly know why, let's just remember him and love him instead of only bringing him up in these kinds of conversations.
I feel sorry for candy shop. Their company is known for being absolutely terrible. I hope things go there way.
A good documentary, many other things could have been spoken about, like the debts, misogyny, young children debuting but also the positive side of the industry too. But it's super worrying that nobody in the industry seems to see theres any issues. Idols aren't people to them, just products. I hope the more people talk the more the industry will take notice...but I worry things won't change.
The mom's face says it all.
I would say being a kpop idol is akin to being a sports athlete. Dancing, singing live, strict dieting, staying in shape etc.
At 9:05 when the manager comes in to give control what they are going to say is insane. Even though one fan said they have to be more than perfect, you can’t be more than perfect because being perfect itself is unknown off. Let those idols share their passion without being controlled this much.
13:15 this is some real art
I'm rooting for Heesoo. I hope she will get in her dream agency and that she will freely and happily debut, the mindset that she have is already very powerful hope she will keep her head up
As a K-pop follower, like any industry it has many negative things but perhaps little by little they have been changing. Unfortunately in Asia the fan-idol relationship is unhealthy, and almost authoritarian. It's as if Asian fans can take control of the idol's personal life, who he dates, what he does every day, if he smokes or drinks.
Something that doesn't happen much with fans outside of Asia, outside of Asia fans see things in a more open and normal way. Without a doubt it is a demanding industry, which delivers good things and quality. But the cost of this is very high.
Tell stories on the underground subcultre music scene in korea too. They have amazing underground indeipendent acts that needs more recognition
Exactly. The spotlight is mostly always over kpop. I wonder how it is for those who have chosen the path to be an artist and not an idol.
Great video and narration . Best wishes to the idol trainees and heesul to debut
Heesu kinda looks like Giselle from Aespa, I hope she succeeds and is happy ❤
he did not quit the band for "smoking on live". The problematic behavior is left out purposefully?
Well, this interview explains his behavior quite well. Alcoholic, gone trough trauma, he probably already had given up his career and he spoke out his thoughts. I hope he will find a better place for himself.
@@Khaphoo the problematic things he was very comfortable saying are not mentioned in this interview. But I won’t go into details, everything is publicly accesible.
God loves you and has a purpose for your life He wants to have a relationship with you if you accept Him You are worthy in His eyes and i hope you can see how much love He has for you and has a purpose for you you dont need to feel this your battles can have a meaning with Him
Yeah that’s what I was thinking, it’s his behaviour and his wierd comments during interviews and his lives that had him kicked out of Teen Top not a damn cigarette
But he did also speak out some facts didn't he @@Arithekiller
The woman saying wrong is wrong regardless of being an idol or not, but we don't see regular korean citizens losing their jobs because they have a partner. She is trying to make it looks like is not so bad, but idols are destroyied by the most human thing a person can do: fall in love.
I wish this video talked about the debt that is incurred from student idols that is owed to the sponsoring companies. Some of the debt go into the millions and they commit suicide because they didn’t make it big.
this has been insightful. All I can think of is how much Kurt Cobain would have hated this. It's the epitome of anti-human, anti-genuine art. It's fast food music.
my problems with kpop:
1. debuting minors
3. forced personalities
4. no choice in musical direction
5. no choice over which events they do or don't
6. forced to interact with people they don't like for image/publicity
7. no bodily autonomy
8. infantilizing idols (AEGYO)
9. they can't sing
10. aren't passionate about music, just want to be famous
11. can't dance
12. can't make any music by themselves, only there for appearances
13. Influencing kids to be "dolls" just like them
Conclusion: Idols are like Kim Kardashian; famous for 0 talent only looks, most of which were achieved through plastic surgery.
nobody forced u to consoom it, don't like, get lost.
Imagine getting invited for dinner and immediately asking the mom if she thinks her daughter will off herself, excellent dinner convo
It was an interview at the end of the day and he is a reporter. Valid question
yeahh but remember they agreed to it, and it is his job so they kind of saw it coming in one way or another
5:39 quite ironic that you interviewed a fan of Highlight on the topic of scandal and high expectations.
One of the members, Yong Jun-Hyung, was literally involved in the burning sun scandal and left the group (back the they were known as Beast). Know he is going to marry Hyuna who allegedly was a good friend of Go Hara, who unalived herself, who also was a keypart in exposing the whole scandal and was a victim of Molka, assault and blackmail herself, by her last boyfriend and before she had dated Yong Jun-Hyung.
Crazy part about it is it's like a factory... most of the time these companies have so many that you might think you are going to be in a group and then cut you for the next best thing. Also Korea is VERY big on looks and promoting this type of culture . Perfection. People look at idols as perfection and if they aren't they feel disrespected
Robotic stars for robotic fans
17:47 omg she's singing 'once again' by Winter and Ningning ❤
Teen top was somewhat big in my day. They made some buzz when they debuted but then sorta dispeared
There are 2 K-pop shows on VIKI that show how the process is done. No sugar coating. Sometimes it is downright brutal the feedback from actual producers are.. One thing for sure though. These girls that try out definitely have incredible talent. Most are 15-17 years old and have been training for years. In addition to maintaining their regular school work. The shows are : Girls on fire & I-Land2 N/a. Definitely worth a look.
Girls on fire just finished and I have high hopes for the group that will result from that. They will be a vocal-heavy group like mamamoo and probably have much more freedom than a regular gg
You cant say kpop without the dark side of it. You cant escape the fact that they are fighting for their lives while entertaining you with their „perfect“ smiles.
k-pop fan since 2013 , thankfully I've never been this obsessed with , towards, or against idols or groups. So many weird comments I've seen through the years, a lot of those fans truly need professional help. The entire k-pop industry is to blame as well , they frame the idols as the perfect human beings, some of them which abuse their power of fame .
golden kemuy i see, a person of culture
Truly. Fans truly can be batsh&@ crazy.
@13:22 bruh, that's a really CLEAR picture
I think super fans are like big fans blowing really cold air to their idols, true fans are only blowing moderately
Candyshop Sarang has a lot of talent, i love Candyshop
My jaw dropped when the presenter raised the issue of suicide in front of the young girl and her parents. I don't know if he cleared that with her parents beforehand but the subject is far too serious for a quick journalistic surprise moment on camera.
Very good documentary. I actually stumbled upon Candyshop's song a while ago and it's cute. I hope their future is bright