What Happens When K-Pop Dreams Turn Into Disappointment?

The rising popularity of K-pop has transformed South Korea into a hotspot for aspiring young artists from around the globe, eager to find a path to stardom. However, as illustrated by the experiences of trainees like Miyu, this journey can often lead to exploitation and disappointment, revealing a troubling underbelly in an industry marked by unregulated training programmes and potential hazards.

Last updated: 14 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As K-pop’s global influence continues to surge, the influx of foreign trainees into South Korea's entertainment scene is shifting, with many facing challenges that raise serious concerns about safety and the integrity of training academies. Trainees like Miyu have reported instances of harassment and broken promises regarding training and audition opportunities, leading to calls for greater oversight of these institutions. The situation reflects a broader issue within the K-pop industry where aspiring idols are often left vulnerable in their pursuit of fame.

Key takeaways

• Many foreign trainees face exploitation and harassment in K-pop training academies.
• Current regulations in South Korea offer limited protection for trainees, particularly at entertainment agencies.
• The number of trainees enrolling in K-pop training programmes is reportedly declining.

Timeline: how we got here

The evolution of the K-pop industry has been rapid, with key milestones impacting its current landscape:

• Late 2010s: The rise of K-pop training academies catering to foreign nationals.
• 2020: A peak in trainee enrolment numbers at K-pop agencies, with 1,895 trainees reported.
• 2024: A significant drop to 963 trainees, highlighting a decline in interest despite the doubling of foreign trainees to 42.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent revelations from trainees like Miyu and Elin have exposed serious allegations of sexual harassment and exploitation within K-pop training academies. Their testimonies underscore the lack of regulatory oversight governing these institutions, which often promise a pathway to fame but deliver adverse experiences instead.

What was already established

Historically, the K-pop industry has been viewed as highly competitive, with agencies largely controlling the opportunities available to aspiring idols. While many succeed, the number of trainees making their debut remains low, with industry reports suggesting only 60% of trainees ever reach that milestone.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The allure of K-pop extends beyond South Korea, captivating fans globally, including in the UK. However, awareness of the industry's darker aspects may influence how consumers perceive K-pop artists and their management, potentially affecting merchandise sales and concert attendance.

Businesses and jobs

The K-pop industry's reliance on foreign trainees means that businesses must navigate international recruitment and associated challenges, such as visa restrictions and compliance with local laws. This may create barriers for companies looking to diversify their talent pools.

Policy and regulation

With growing concerns about trainee safety, there may be increased scrutiny on the regulatory frameworks governing K-pop training academies. Policymakers might consider implementing stricter guidelines to protect young aspiring artists, particularly those from abroad.

Numbers that matter

• 963: The number of trainees reported in 2024, down from 1,895 in 2020.
• 60%: The percentage of trainees who make their debut after approximately two years of training.
• 42: The number of foreign trainees reported by agencies in 2024, a significant increase from previous years but still a small fraction of the total.

Definitions and jargon buster

• K-pop: A genre of popular music originating in South Korea, known for its diverse styles and high-energy performances.
• Hagwon: Private academies in South Korea, often focused on education and skills training.
• Entertainment agencies: Companies that manage and promote artists in the music and entertainment industry.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Monitoring any developments regarding regulatory changes or responses from the South Korean government is crucial. Victims of harassment within training programmes may also seek legal recourse, which could lead to further public discussions on the safety of aspiring idols.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Increased advocacy for the protection of trainees may emerge, particularly as more stories come to light. Stakeholder discussions within the industry could lead to new practices aimed at safeguarding the welfare of young artists.

Signals to watch

• Changes in regulations regarding training academies and entertainment agencies.
• Reports from former trainees about their experiences and any legal actions taken against agencies.
• Public sentiment around K-pop and its associated training practices, particularly in international markets.

Practical guidance

Do

• Research training programmes thoroughly before enrolling.
• Be aware of your rights and the legal protections available in South Korea.
• Seek support from fellow trainees or organisations that advocate for artists' rights.

Don’t

• Ignore any signs of inappropriate behaviour or harassment.
• Feel pressured to remain silent about negative experiences.
• Assume that all training programmes are equally reputable; investigate thoroughly.

Checklist

• Ensure you have a clear understanding of the programme's structure and promises.
• Verify the legitimacy of the academy or agency you are considering.
• Know how to report any concerns or incidents that arise during your training.
• Establish a support network of friends or mentors within the industry.
• Stay informed about industry news and changes in regulations affecting trainees.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The K-pop industry is fraught with risk, particularly for foreign trainees who may not fully understand the cultural and legal landscape of South Korea. Reports of harassment raise serious questions about the safety and integrity of training programmes, suggesting a need for more stringent oversight. The potential for traumatic experiences can deter aspiring artists from pursuing their dreams, particularly if they fear retribution from powerful agencies.

Bottom line

The K-pop industry represents both a tantalising opportunity and a daunting challenge for young artists, especially those from abroad. The troubling experiences of trainees like Miyu and Elin highlight the urgent need for reform and better protection mechanisms within this vibrant yet perilous field. As awareness grows, it remains to be seen how the industry will adapt to ensure a safer environment for future idols.

FAQs

What is the K-pop training programme like?

The K-pop training programme typically includes dance and vocal lessons, but many trainees report unmet expectations regarding the quality and frequency of training.

Are there regulations governing K-pop training academies?

Regulation of K-pop training academies is limited, as many operate outside the purview of the education department, leading to potential gaps in trainee protection.

What should aspiring K-pop artists consider before enrolling in a programme?

Aspiring artists should thoroughly research training institutions, understand their rights, and be cautious of any signs of inappropriate behaviour.