Behind the glamour of K-pop lies a dark side that is often hidden from the public eye.
Strict diets
K-pop idols are known for their slim figures, which are often achieved through strict diets and exercise regimes. Many idols are put on extreme diets that can be harmful to their health. They are required to eat very little and consume only specific foods. Some idols have even admitted to resorting to dangerous practices such as starvation and binge eating to maintain their weight.
— Image from Pinterest
“I didn’t eat anything for the whole week and went to the gym all the time. I spat all the time so there was no water in my body. And when I laid down on the bed and tried to sleep, I was scared that I wouldn’t wake up again, so I suddenly started crying.” — Momo (Twice)
Intense pressure
The industry’s strict regulations and intense pressure have also taken a toll on its artists. Members of Korean idol groups have little freedom over their personal lives and are under constant scrutiny from their management companies. They are often subjected to strict diets, grueling schedules, and harsh training regimes that can lead to physical and mental exhaustion.
Toxic fans
Toxic fans or sasaengs: Sasaeng refers to overly obsessive fans who engage in extreme behavior, such as stalking and invasion of an idol’s privacy. Sasaeng fans disrupt idols’ personal lives, jeopardize their safety, and create a constant atmosphere of fear and discomfort. The actions of anti-fans can range from the relatively innocent to the possibly deadly. They have been known to send death threats, vandalize property, and even physically harm K-pop stars and their fans. This pressure has resulted in numerous tragic incidents, including suicides.
Lack of privacy
K-pop idols often have limited personal freedoms and privacy. They are constantly watched by their fans and agencies. Their private lives are subject to invasion by fans, the media, and even their own agencies. This lack of personal space can lead to feelings of isolation and a loss of personal identity.
Things that don’t make sense
“Things that don’t make sense in K-pop” is a popular topic of discussion among Kpop fans, and there are many articles and videos that explore this topic.
Some common examples of things that don’t make sense in Kpop include the intense pressure and the prevalence of plastic surgery and other appearance-related interventions, the way that fans often project their own desires and fantasies onto idols. Other examples include the way that Kpop groups are often marketed and packaged to appeal to specific audiences, the lack of transparency and accountability in the industry, and the way that scandals and controversies can quickly derail an idol’s career. However, it is important to note that these are generalizations and not all Kpop groups or idols necessarily conform to these patterns.
In conclusion, the K-pop industry’s dark side is a sad truth that cannot be ignored. The industry needs to address the issues of assault, mental health and provide better support for its artists. Fans also have a responsibility to respect the privacy and well-being of K-pop stars and to speak out against the actions of anti-fans.
Only then can the industry truly shine in all its glory.
