Dark And Disturbing Things You Never Knew About K-Pop

The South Korean music genre of K-pop has been evolving for decades, but it wasn’t until the 2010s where it really started taking off worldwide. With the easy accessibility of KZbin, K-pop videos started becoming viral sensations in the United States and beyond. By 2017, the K-pop boy band BTS was one of the most-watched artists on the site.
However, K-pop is an industry unto itself, and it is a very strictly controlled one. Nearly everything about the stars is kept highly regulated, from their weight to their dating lives. Let’s take a look at some dark and disturbing things you never knew about K-pop.
#Kpop #Disturbing #Music
The slave contracts | 0:00
Boot camp hell | 1:31
Money woes | 2:38
Worked to exhaustion | 3:10
Plastic surgery pressures | 3:49
Strict diets | 4:37
The problem | 5:34
Dangerous fans | 6:34
Discrimination? | 7:07
Read Full Article: www.nickiswift.com/112428/k-po...

[@NickiSwift]

Has this changed your mind about the K-Pop industry? Why or why not?

[@bsinita_wokeone]

Nicki Swift yes and i believe there needs to be a revolution all throughout asia to confront the illegal practices in the entertainment industry.

[@wedotalkaboutwhatarmystand4796]

I have known these long time ago. Im not supporting their "slavery" and "industial" method. Knowing these makes me understand more and i think wiser as a fan to behave. How i see kpop idols mostly now are a pion, like a product... But some that appears really do have talent and done right. im enjoying their music. I cant deny they do produce quality.

[@sofiamadeit]

great tae EXACTLY!!!!

[@tyronehasanopiniondealwith3703]

great tae same thing idiot.

[@nctsgrass]

No because I always knew it

[@flwrden]

*These are some of the reasons of why I hate K-Pop.* I hate that the idols we love, suffers in the inside, whilst, acts cheerful and happy in the outside... 😔

[@reallyrolex]

Denise Borja yasss iquebqiqueen 😔😔😔😄😉😔😏😔😔😏😔😉😔😔😔😳😏💁😔✌️😔🤮😌😉😔😔😔😔😔✌️✌️ yayaasewsa

[@poclgbtanddisabledlivesmat2254]

That happens in all industries tho

[@Animals_wit_Shree_77]

Exception exist every where ...some kpop agency treat there artist like their loved ones ..like Bighit entertainment does ..to there boy band and girl band ..

[@maehiggins898]

It’s not just Kpop? It’s all music industries.

[@flwrden]

@@maehiggins898 okay, but this video's about specifically K-pop.

[@CellaB23]

Sleeping 3-4 hours a day is literally a torture... :'(

[@mariaroxx]

and spending the rest of the day dancing. Hell!

[@JA-bf9ph]

Seriously thats my normal sleep schedule

[@oishipoddar5655]

Am I the only one who finds it normal I mean I am an engineering student and I also sleep 3-4 hrs. The fact that they spend the whole day doing phy activities after that is what worries me

[@karakoooo]

I find that normal sleeping 3-4 hours

[@rishabhsrivastava6960]

@@karakoooo its not you are torturing yourself

[@nimaniashadini121]

studying is better than being a kpop idol.

[@ranielpangilinan727]

Being a British/Filipino musician is more better than a Kpop idol.

[@MintPro47]

Everything is better than being a kpop idol

[@gays4beomgyu]

I can agree with all of you

[@yourtypicalbot1926]

Flät Ëãrth well said

[@oioi_emip7086]

Davibes TV living in north korea

[@richjenpjhkks]

6. Suicide problem.The suicide rate of Korea is very high.Its not only the problem of k pop but also of Korean society overall.Because competitiveness of Korean society is high and the entertainment industry is extremely competitive, the suicide rate is high especially among young people who are vulnerable.

[@itsanna3rih]

박종호 just like in Japan

[@jaeinlee5837]

I agree but I also think k pop encourages these problems and influence our children and teens as well

[@daoyang223]

I heard from a south Korean exchange student that the individuality in America is something she wishes existed in SK.

[@carolinespence15]

It's really due to a superficial existence .

[@marlak4203]

@An Earthian bingo. Tooo much focus on looks and stupid stuff. Like mentioning age all the time. Mentioning height. Just leave that stuff alone. And let the men look like men and so forth. Get the camera out of their face most of the time. Let the audience miss them. They're forced to live together in those dorms with the company for full control. Ugh

[@richard_lisondra]

When you thought that North Korea is more dark and disturbing. South Korea Entertainment Industry: hold my soju Edit: never thought it would reach 1k likes. It is just a mock for what so called "slave contract" as what an Idol is experiencing in South Korea Industry

[@lollipop96537]

Richard Lisondra Ouch...I’m from South Korea

[@user-zm3pg9gn1s]

R/whoooosh

[@YTworld-69]

K-pop is awful

[@user-zm3pg9gn1s]

@@YTworld-69 k

[@22karru]

YG be like

[@EvilValenStrife]

Correction: New K-Pop fans don't know about these things. I've been a K-Pop fan for well over a decade and I've seen these things. That's not to say that I'm not glad that it’s being discussed more though. It is a serious problem that only is going to continue if we stay silent.

[@taefiedcontents9467]

EvilValenStrife same

[@reppinseattle7974]

No one will say anything as long as it remains entertaining/ profitable.

[@ruthlessrays9761]

Fans have been voicing out their opinions about all whats mentioned in the video since forever though.

[@Novadestin]

EvilValenStrife, exactly. I've been a fan since like 1999 and every time I try to have a conversation with newer KPop fans about stuff like this almost all of them are either totally clueless and/or think it's either a) all in the past or b) not that bad. Sad thing is though, in my experience, as long as they're precious oppas and unnies are smiling on screen than most of them don't actually care and will just sweep everything under the rug for the sake of their escapism.

[@realmothchu]

I'm a new kpop fan and I definitely knew about this years before I got into kpop

[@ariblanco82]

im Filipino and Korean descent and i was raised in Korea.. you experience lots of racism is Korea. it got so bad for me. my parents sent me to the US to live with my grandmother. i learned racism is everywhere. i learned that i didn't belong anywhere, i even attempted in taking my life. but then i moved from Florida to California and that saved my life. i met so many mixed race people there. i learned that it was Ok to be different. i learned to love myself, my Filipino side and my Korean side. i do bump into racism here and there but i don't hold a grudge it just ignorance and i welcome the chance to show my cultures especially through food.

[@ningchannaga8444]

I hope you're doing better now. I'll be rooting for your happiness.

[@daoyang223]

You should check out the heavy metal community. It's so open. I've grown estranged from my Asian brothers and sisters because they don't like the way I dress and don't like the way I look. I always grew up around other types of people from different ethnic cultures who all just have a passion for the heavy metal genre. It has its ups and downs but we're beyond the shallow bullshit.

[@potpourri565]

I live in Florida! I love the Philippines 😁

[@Ivan-fg3fy]

I agree. I was born and raised in south korea, and almost everyone critisized me because of my appearance and nationality. Sorry for my bad english.

[@justgin5381]

I agree everything you said.

[@hobissnakeu3487]

I'm a HUGE A.R.MY (BTS fan) and I'm about to cry. I've heard that Bighit Entertainment is much better than most, but I'm really sad now about other groups.

[@emilialeppala3406]

Yep, BigHit is one of the best ones I know...

[@bellsgotitnowft]

Are you kidding me? Bighit is also the worst

[@litejimin5066]

No, they treated their group as human being. Not money machine.

[@bellsgotitnowft]

@@litejimin5066 They only care about the western popularity now Just look how they rushed txt to the western. Oh God they were all so uncomfortable. They are not promoting them in Korea correctly. All they care about is westren

[@litejimin5066]

@@bellsgotitnowft according to billboard top global social artist, TXT rank #5 . So their effort is not useless. I know TXT feels pressure because they are BTS's little brother and people expecting them to be as great as their senior. The last time i checked, bighit taught TXt about humility. They are rich af, but bighit give them small dorm to teach them to fight from the bottom just like their senior. And thus why bighit is rank #4 innovative company after snap, microsoft and tesla.

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

No wonder the suicide rate is sooo high among South Korean artists. I heard a lot about this and reminds me of how artists are treated in TVB. You work hard for very little money. I feel very bad for them! This shows us what reality is behind all of that glamour and fame. They suffer so much in silence.

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

vkook trash I know that but the Korean artists get more coverage due to their fame.

[@PoisonelleMisty4311]

robin william was american he killed himself, the ceo of victoria secret was american and he killed himself. Suicide exist everywhere. But they was the highest country who scoured in piza international test in math and sciene, american students are literary brain damage of all the party and trende most of them end up like kylie jenner stupied pregment and only care about looks.

[@jonikupolati5086]

Not just its artists, but South Korea itself has a high suicide rate

[@fat81]

south korean has a high suicide rate not just among idols but among elders and students

[@sillaykara6245]

South Korea has a high suicide rate due to the pressure of school and the education system. An average student is expected to study at least 16 hours a day.

[@mr.personhumanson6871]

Why would someone go through all these just to become famous for a few year I'll never understand.

[@hermione5050]

Mr. Person Humanson its not just about fame. If they have a passion for dancing and singing they can perform all around the world and earn alot of money...which is clearly understandable

[@AmyStylinson]

Because Korean work life is absolute shit. It's just as painful doing anything else.

[@hermione5050]

Amyyy what?

[@hermione5050]

Amyyy you must be a korean working full time in korea

[@AmyStylinson]

Heri Demsas I just know a lot about the industry. Shocking, huh? When you've been into something for 8 years you actually get to know more about it!

[@flwrden]

The suicide part made me shiver in pain and tears thinking about my idols. Hoping... that will never happen to them...

[@Cokepencilpsd]

hopefully one day it will.

[@flwrden]

@@Cokepencilpsd what...?

[@ibnurijal655]

now i understand why bts did 3 albums of love yourself. (no fanwar or shit comments)

[@ibnurijal655]

@@flwrden s/hes jealous that kpop is popular and way better than american pop. just let them being dumb till their death

[@flwrden]

@@ibnurijal655 alright. Hopefully they'll find someone to love before their death. 😂

[@Ty-mu7gl]

I don’t listen to K-pop, but they are excellent in everything they do. They are incredible vocalists, great dancers, fearless performers and speak several languages. But of course, if they’re this perfect it’s because of the pressure they live under.

[@holeecheng6873]

Your comments r really true n upright.

[@musicloverhayat8402]

Yess

[@jenniferkluckett3169]

I like K-pop and this stuff makes me sad for this kids!😑

[@otispocus7676]

You do realise most of the Kpop stars are in their late 20s and early 30s.

[@jenniferkluckett3169]

Ew it’s Colby yeah

[@jltaco85]

Kids? Most of them are old

[@drew6874]

@Jennifer K Luckett There 's always the devil in the details.

[@mr.potato1604]

They may look young and fetus but they r responsible adults most of them r older then u think

[@jungkookieisacutie9602]

I Iove and adore K-POP but hearing about all this stuff makes me just so sad.. :(

[@igotyouundermybed]

This is not even news.. This has been going on for years already.

[@PoisonelleMisty4311]

i love kpop too screw the haters. they are butthurt

[@sharifasidiqi6177]

JungKookie is a Cutie! Love you!~ btw I'm Hadiyalol on BTS animo. Yea I'm weird ;-;-

[@jungkookieisacutie9602]

Nuva yea, that's true!

[@jungkookieisacutie9602]

Shady Shay yes, sadly...that's very very true

[@kayleeostling643]

RIP Jonghyun ❤

[@thewoozinator951]

😭😭❤

[@thewoozinator951]

😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 😭💋💋😭💋💋😭 💋💋💋💋💋💋💋 💋💋💋💋💋💋💋 💋💋💋💋💋💋💋 😭💋💋💋💋💋😭 😭😭💋💋💋😭😭 😭😭😭💋😭😭😭 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@kayleeostling643]

BTS A.R.M.Y 😭😭❤ i feel you.

[@dyteriaswinson8370]

Wtf i didn't know he died? Replay was my favorite song by Shinee and my 1st boy group 8yrs ago.....man the F is this was 2yrs ago really? RIP

[@shakii7885]

at BigHit Entertainment Bangtan usually gets 70% and Company gets 30% and they have their personal space and freedom. They can also use social media anytime if they don't have work. Their company, BigHit consider their own freedom. And bish please, If you're a hater, be careful with your mouth, Bighit might sue you😏

[@syedaafsatamim1214]

This is important bighit is different from other entertainment companies

[@Elicia33]

because they are in the top 10 companies , they have money and they have groups that ARE earning.but smaller companies with no earnings isn’t going to have good treatment for the idols , you won’t expect a huge company to treat their idols bad obviously because they are bringing money to the company

[@myyy7982]

@@Elicia33 duh are you even know what you're saying? They came from the bottom. The company's poor asf. But they treat them better than others would treat their artists. Now because of their hardwork dedication and passion they became the Most popular artists in Korea, Most paid Boy band in the World. Stop with your delusions that they only treat them good because they're famous now when in fact they came from nothing...

[@yellownotsus7538]

@@Elicia33 Big Hit was and is great company.

[@alinanana174]

Bighit is the best company

[@orlacordial]

As a kpop fan I know most of us know all of this, it's pretty saddening but there is a possibility for a change because of it being public knowledge and there being outrage over it. Also Nicki Swift got most of their information from only one source

[@crigonalgaming1258]

Orla Cordial change cannot happen unless the artists themselves fight for their creative freedom. So long as it is embedded into the Korean culture, as so long as the artists are willing to submit to conform to societal standards of the Korean way, as long as you enjoy corporate, manufactured, excessive and soulless music, and as long as YOU pay for it, NOTHING will change. The way to speak towards the men in suits is to speak the language of money. And if somebody still continues to support financially such groups, nothing will change.

[@PoisonelleMisty4311]

i thought they got their information from nicki minaj

[@ruthlessrays9761]

Origin Music fortunately, their are already groups who are open about it. I'd say BTS (not being biased) but they're one of the greatest examples of kpop groups that's battling against the corrupt industry of kpop. Agust D (BTS Suga) talked about it in his mixtape in his song "The Last" also BTS Baepsae/Try hard. You can feel their exhaustion through reading the lyrics of their songs.

[@crigonalgaming1258]

infiresos ‵‵ Fighting against the industry that bound them of the same contracts that were cruel in the first place offers them nothing really. They can fight all they want, but if the contract asks them to act like how they want them to act, sing the songs the corporate people in uniforms ask them to, and dress, look and and present themselves to sell and earn money as the contract says, NOTHING will stop such practice. Breach that same contract and do things according to one's will shall be met with prosecution. And nobody would want a messy court battle for a contract they breached that they signed in for in the first place. Kpop has sunk to a point where the mainstream is being dictated by the corporate office, where real musical creativity of the artists and their artistic merit are forgotten to sell to the general public. It has gotten to a point of being formulaic and being mechanical and manufactured. The only way to stop this is to speak with your wallets. That is the language of these businessmen. No form of protest and artist coup de etat will put these guys on panic mode more than a lingering financial loss for such hideous, inhumane circus acts. If you guys manage to make them lose 50 million dollars, THEN we might see change.

[@ruthlessrays9761]

Origin Music At least they're ACTUALLY doing something different and making a change. KPOP is seen in a negative light first off because most of them don't really participate in making their own music, the PS, and a lot of negative things being thrown to them. People only focus on the negative sides (which is fcking sad) when KPOP have a lot to offer. Do you think these idols are that ignorant to enter a contract just to be considered "slaves"??? I'd say bullsht. Go listen to AGUST D's "Give it To Me" MV and turn the CC on for lyrics so u can have a better understanding of the group, BTS and as an individual artist. Also what do u reckon why BTS is loved by so many people??? It's not all about the external factors bruh at the end of the day, it all goes to their genuineness and messages in their music. I never would've stanned a KPOP idol if it's not BTS. These are just a few reasons why they stand out as a group and individuals.

[@unicorn1876]

// *pretends to be shocked*

[@devilsgirll]

I shouldn't be laughing at this comment but--

[@jeongchaejisjams8350]

@@devilsgirll Lol😂😂😂same tho

[@Paktoy_100]

Remember that 2009 tv show “Boys Over Flowers” ? The actress who played Sunny killed herself listing sexual exploitation from her ceo, and at least 31 other people as the reason

[@angels1077]

Before I got interested in KDramas, I was watching Running Man from their first episode and when they have Kpop Idols as their guests you can tell how they are being controlled by their managers and agency. You can see and hear them "are we allowed to do this/that" "are we allowed to say this/that" "we are on a diet" (even they are all already skinny) "Our manager will get mad at us" always mentioning their manager for approval even small things. Most of them just go with the script, just do what their managers tell them to do and say. That's why I concluded that Kpop aren't what people really think they are.

[@technoyaoidream]

"The suicide problem," nice to see how they'll will be remebered as contributors to Kpop's suicide problem and not testaments to the severity of mental health issues and how poorly they are being handled in Kpop.

[@dharling97]

Don't you mean in the society of South Korea? It's a problem within the country, not just the industry...

[@hermione5050]

Bts = views

[@justsomeguywithoutamustach9775]

Whaaat? Be specific

[@kc8724]

Liana Storm theyre in the thumbnail clickbaiting

[@tyronehasanopiniondealwith3703]

Heri Demsas yup, same thing with reactors they put BTS in their vids and voila 10000 subs lol

[@nothappening3962]

Angel truth what?

[@kittychalalaa7331]

Heri Demsas they showed more pics of them and TWICE....I'm scared I hope they don't have suicide thoughts

[@mamiminowknowsbest]

As an "old" kpop fan, I have grown away from it due to so many reasons like personal life, school, work, & just growing up. However I have been seeing over the years the negative affects of kpop on my favorite idols & the questionable things Koreans done in their culture. As a ot5 shawol & mourner of jjong, I really had to step away from kpop completely because I can't handle the culture anymore, it's too much. Whether or not you chose to be aware of these *very accurate* facts, I truly wish best of luck to you current kpop fans & newcomers! Nothing but love!❤❤❤

[@emptyricebowl]

I'm not even surprised a lot of Kpop fans know this, it still saddens me

[@saraha8234]

Lol this video is literally just a restatement of the content on Prince Mak’s channel

[@ruthlessrays9761]

Sarah A and his own perspective only sigh

[@Malak-ft7ju]

I know right

[@kkarung]

aaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnnnd he is no name from CHINESE COMPANY that faund by Jackie Chan lol

[@saraha8234]

꽁이 woah calm down like ??? I love prince mak just bc he isn’t korean isn’t a reason to discriminate against him and what do u have against Jackie Chan? Lol no hate man only good vibes

[@snisa92]

When they put BTS at thumbnail and most of the contents they said on video actually not related to BTS and their company, bighit at all...... BTS have said countless times that they love bighit and feel grateful to get freedom in making their own music. They dont have any dating ban and bighit always help to handle their dating life to be secretive. Plus, they get to manage their own twitter account since day 1 and its really rare for any kpop groups account that tend to get managed by their own agency. Bighit definitely not saint, but they definitely much better than any korea agencies. I bet many teenagers who dream to be idols are eager to enter bighit because of how they manage BTS. 2am changmin even proved how nice bighit is when he is contemplated to change to other agency because he dont think he gonna find another agency that treat him well as good as bighit so he end up setting up his own agency. Actually, each company have different approaches in managing their artists. Its really depend how lucky and wise decision for the trainees in selecting the company who they want to be trained in.

[@taenation9045]

Grace Wang cause right now they only have BTS but soon they are debuting new boy grp. And why Bighit doesnt debut so many grps then because some years back Bighit wasnt as rich as they are now. Even with just BTS and Homme they are almost bankrupt. But as they have money they are debuting a new boy grp. And if you think they only use BTS for money then let me tell you all the profit from BT21 and Love Myself goes to charity and 3% of their album sale too. Bighit dont pressurize their idol to eat less if they did then i think Eat Jin would nvr been invented. Bighit gives BTS their freedom in producing their own music and also in Social media. And intially BTS didnt have a good dorm but once Bighit got money they gave BTS a new dorm in the most expensive place in Seoul and its said that the dorm is worth 7M USD. Bighit also gave jungkook his own studio to create his own videos cause its his hobby. And abt BTS busy schedule then lemme tell you BTS decides what to do in their cb and they do their own work themselves..bighit doesnt pressurize them. And abt world tour then they are now top grp and BTS demand is high so ofcrs they have to do it but they are doing it after a year. Even RM said he started with the new album so Bighit has nothing to do with it if RM wants to do it. BTS was approached by the Olympics to perform but BigHit declined cause they didnt want to pressurize the boys cause they have their album even though Olympic could have brought so much profit to the company. And pls stop mentioning that why Bighit doesnt focus on other grp dude they dont have any other grp. BTS is right now their only grp but 6aces is coming soon. i am not telling BIghit is saint but they are better than other companys.

[@snisa92]

BTS ARMY plus from what I see, bighit is really perfectionist and really cautious. I believe thats why they take long time to debut a new group. From glam to BTS, we can see that bighit standard in selecting member of group are pretty high. It seem they want the group has own producer like RM/suga plus passionate idols who put music first rather than anything. BTS is too successful so of course bighit gonna have pressure in selecting members for new group. I hope the next group would be successful too.

[@taenation9045]

Taetae ya i hope they will. i heard they will debut in 2019 or end of 2018.

[@snisa92]

they still get to manage their own accounts. Its just maybe their company do supervise their account from time to time. Like which company actually allow their artists cutting their hair by themselves and make self video for it?? lol. It show their freedom in managing their account.

[@taenation9045]

filsan BTS do manage their own acc. And for unfollowing Pewdiepie then he said something abt GD idk exactly the reason thats why BTS unfollowed them. And BTS said that @BTS_twt is for the member and they can post anything they want to except drunk pics. BTS offical acc is used by the company and also bts insta acc.

[@kirayamato3632]

I really admire kpop idols but hearing these stuffs it makes me feel sad. The pressure that they’re feeling everyday lead them to end their lives. 😭

[@problemperson4221]

Putting BTS in the thumbnail to get views lmao

[@keiichanny9497]

trueeeee

[@baldmansbasics8653]

But its also k pop right?

[@syedaafsatamim1214]

Exactly

[@okmjn3460]

they're the face of K-pop as of right now.

[@syedaafsatamim1214]

But their company doesn't do this stuff to them so whats the point of putting them in the thumbnail

[@alexdavinci9533]

Greed is the main focus of any music industry. I think technology is changing all of that now.

[@jedwardfanxox6]

I wish you didn’t include photos of Jonghyun’s funeral, it’s super disrespectful for his family and friends, and also upsetting to see their distress

[@BlackJeansxx]

But there was a part of the funeral that jonghyun and the people closest to him allowed the public to see..?

[@charlottelokinu9606]

Nori how is it disrespectful!??

[@disappointment3090]

Nori You know nothing so please don’t pretend that you do, his funeral was on a broadcasting channel for people to see. It would only be disrespectful if she was shaming him and saying bad things

[@ginnundso]

Jonghyuns funeral was partly public and partly intimate. The part where he was carried to the car was for the public where everyone was allowed to come (you can also watch the vid on YT) then you can see the car driving away after a few minutes with his family in it and only his closest friends (like his members and Leeteuk - who carried him) Please be better informed before you say smth like that

[@makishima2172]

When your title says “DARK N DISTURBING FACTS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT KPOP” but your thumbnail is BTS

[@timeover979]

*Because bts is like the face of kpop* . So its obvious that they will use their photo in the thumbnail other than photos of bunch of other groups . Stop being so sensitive about it ; they haven't said anything bad about bts , so why do you care ???

[@jan_123mali3]

@@timeover979 jeez calm down they were probably just confused

[@jamila1740]

@@timeover979 calm down lol

[@dejane5042]

Because bts is **D A N G E R O U S** (Jk)

[@araara7225]

time over but there aren’t any conspiracies about bts so why is bts in the thumbnail? To get views ofc. Why are YOU being ignorant

[@alishakay]

Why the frick was BTS on thumbnail when the video had NOTHING to do with them? These KZbin channels gets worse and worse.

[@momcompickmeupimscared8635]

PinkPrinceJin as an ARMY i think is because of the big popularity of the fandom the video will get a lot of views

[@JAPNINIGHTCOREPEWPEW]

PinkPrinceJin well they part of kpop..

[@deprimeplatypus490]

well they are a big part of the endrusty bighit and bts is no diffrent so you can't really say it has nothing to do with them k pop in general is wrong(i am also a fan btw but you can't deny the truth)

[@larissaleigh4488]

its basically a youtube science slap BTS on your thumnail=an instant 10 million more views

[@user-wt5uw9fl8n]

Gosh your so dramatic af. Im a fan of twice and if i see them on a thumbnail i dont care gosh stop being dramatic

[@junounooxenfree]

I love k-pop but it sad hearing this shit and knowing that these guys are human and working their ass off :V

[@timinatr99]

BloodprincessX X gay

[@junounooxenfree]

tim huynh okay thanks! 🏳️‍🌈💕

[@theeviciousbear8263]

BloodprincessX X kpop could go jam in hell for all I care.

[@timinatr99]

THEE Vicious Bear agreed

[@nctsgrass]

All veteran kpop fans know about all of this which is why most of us are even more dedicated as fans. Prince Mak said it himself, support your faves the best you can because that's how you can make the situation better. Getting the idols off debt, making in sort that they get a decent income, and supporting them as the time goes on. Also the idol life isn't as horrible as all these channels make it seem to be. Why would then groups such as TVXQ!, SUJU, Girl's Day, Big Bang, SNSD (5 out of 8 + remaining 3 members plan on reuniting with the group), Sechskies, BEG and more renew their contracts if it was legit slavery? Also with recent laws, minor idols can't perform past 10PM and have to attend school, also contract length CANNOT be 13 years long or more, it's just 7 years now. People who aren't familiar with kpop would say it's still a lot, but considering that most groups take 2-3 years to get a stable fanbase and that when only ~2 years are left, the company usually "loosens" up and lets the idols do solo stuff, in total it's exactly the right amount. Of course, I'm not denying anything said in the video but I feel like many info channels just love using kpop to get more views because it's becoming a really international thing now. Edit: lmao wait no, I just have to strongly disagree with the Jonghyun part. He didn't take his life because of the pressure of the idol industry, every SHINee fan knows that. Please have some respect for him and keep him out of this.

[@opulentbright8432]

Why use bts in the thumbnail? When they got none in the video

[@complicatrix7602]

it's about k-pop, obviously?

[@agelu7297]

complicatrix it's obvious they want views lmfao

[@nez3023]

Ikr -_- they think if they use it they will gain a lot of views welp I bet a lot of people is falling for it

[@complicatrix7602]

@@agelu7297 the video is about k-pop and they put a k-pop band in the thumbnail - it's pretty obvious why they'd do that

[@apurvasharma8213]

Why are all the Army's always so triggered. Bts is obviously a part of K-Pop. Or have you guys declared that bts doesn't fall in any genre of music or that Bts is itself a genre? Smh.

[@georginasparks6867]

The fact that Mark from GOT7 said in an interview that he wasn’t even allowed to go to the convenience store alone, really tells you how fucked up and monitored everything is.

[@nadiarivera3317]

well sometimes its for their own safety. yes they are monitored, however they have to be with someone in order to ensure their safety. its common for idols to get mobbed if they are alone, so if they are accompanied, they are protected.

[@laminbee8053]

It’s The Same In Every Industry, You Sell Your Soul For Fame And Fortune. That’s That

[@cloclodiway7696]

Was looking for this comment.

[@thek-nerd3143]

Cloclo Diway hi! I saw you in the other comment thread

[@GranTube]

But it's much worse in South Korea as we can see

[@erinfinn6855]

exactly many people forget that the western world is like this aswell because they simpley don’t want to admit it

[@Foxfire-chan]

It’s just a bit less regulated by laws than in these industries in the west. However not so for child models in the west.

[@sm4791]

Nicki Swift using kpop for clout for 5 minutes straight

[@richjenpjhkks]

2. Boot camp hellKorea is a very competitive society and even students have to study more than 15 hours to go to university.That is a overall phenomenon of Korea and working more than 12 hours is not limited to this industry.The issue of overwork(Karoshi in Japanese) is wide spread problem of Korean society and the government enacted a new law to limit the working hour up to 52 hours which is still high for western standard.We can wait and see what this law will bring about to the entertainment industry and overall atmosphere. K pop is known for the synchronized dance skills and good looksThese days, the chemistry of members and the characters of each member is getting more important.They have to learn languages like Japanese, Chinese and English.The companies recruits trainees and they train them for 2 to 3 years on average.Some of them go through 6 months, but some of them for 5 to 7 years as a trainee.From the trainee years, they learn dance, singing, language to prepare for the debut.After debut, the first year is very important to get on the stardom.They go to Music Bank and other TV shows.In Korea, 3 major broadcasting companies have their own TV shows and there are other tv shows of cable music networks.So if they want to be successful, they have to appear on 5 to six programs in a week.And they start in the early hour to go to hair shop to do the makeup and hair.You can see the videos of these groups in the early morning when they go to the broadcasting stations.Even though they only appear just for several minutes, the broadcasting takes up whole day for prepare, dry rehearsal and real broadcasting.When they are lucky enough to succeed, there will be more TV shows and festivals to ask them to appear.That will all lead to overwork.

[@richjenpjhkks]

52 hours a week

[@stanloona1441]

as someone who has liked kpop for 5 years now, i continue to notice these things happen in the kpop community. some fans dont understand what idols put themselves through, it disappoints me. this topic should me more known. more should understand what actually happens behind the cameras

[@jan_mykel]

WANNA ONE most especially Kang Daniel is one of the example of having a slave contract.

[@kimjunmyeon2392]

JM and B.A.P

[@richjenpjhkks]

I tell you the real reality of k pop industry.K pop is a very competitive industry.Out of 100 groups only 1 or 2 can survive and the rest disappear in 1 or 2 years.There are hundreds of companies and the condition varies widely.3 major companies(SM YG JYP) have a higher chance because they have good system and staff. Other companies which have decent systems and staff are about 10 to 20.The others are mostly small and unprepared companies.All the problems come from these companies.

[@ahmed38247]

I wish we knew more about the truth behind the screens or the "character" that the idol is supposed to be.. But sadly idols dont speak about this too often

[@luzmoran9536]

I came here after Sulli’s death.

[@whatthehellisthis]

i get a feeling that a fair amount of this occurs in the american music industry but we don't know about it yet...

[@Cynistrelle]

Nive Ashok yeah no it’s not that extreme considering how much people here complain about stuff and they barely do

[@Chittamama16]

Well kinda is but behind close doors.

[@Julia-wz6ki]

Nive Ashok cof cof kesha cof cof

[@whatthehellisthis]

Nickel Pack that's what i mean

[@whatthehellisthis]

Keijō ikr

[@valentine-zz2my]

rest in peace Jonghyun.

[@richjenpjhkks]

1. Slave contractThis was a problem about 15 years ago and became an issue at that time.(At that time, a member of Dong Bang Sin Ki or DBSK raised this issue and went to court)The government(Fair Trade Committee to be exact) intervened and a law was passed to limit the contract up to 7 years.It is reasonable because a group needs to have 3 to 4 years to be successful and to reach a break-even point.That is the reason why some groups disband or some of them leave the group after 7 years from their debut.( You can see Sistar or Girls Generation for examples)

[@poclgbtanddisabledlivesmat2254]

Guys, remember this is everywhere, not just in kpop, there are slightly different situations going on but they're in every media entertainment industry. Please, you can hate the bad stuff about kpop but don't drag it down by acting like it's the only country with problems.

[@aestheticescape7]

Exactly! Every entertainment industry has it's dark side only the difference is in other industries things don't come out. (no hate to any other industry , I myself listen to different languages and genres).

[@hobiii6459]

srsly i know cause im an indian and the same happens in the bollywood industry Nepotism, suicides, depression...................... each and every industry has a dark side.................

[@niunia19991]

Well, I don't think music industry in Europe's so dark. Companies are companies, some are worse some better, but in my country and around, musicans seem to be free with what they want to do (to the extent of their contracts). I don't hear about sucides or anything. They don't seem to be working 20h a day and they surely earn very decent money. They are not trained other than with vocal coaching or sth as well. They maybe don't make such a wide success, but music in my country (and as far as I know in other places in EU) is still having some dignity as a form of art which should be liberate.

[@loribeachbear22]

This was well put together however, jonghyun’s suicide was not caused by the pressures of being a kpop idol. Jonghyun’s death being taken out of context to feed into the fact that kpop is an extreme job isnt right. Everything else about this video was correct but please leave jonghyun out of this.

[@vintagexparadise]

someone killed him

[@loribeachbear22]

vintagexparadise what lol

[@ruthlessrays9761]

I know right. They just added that to put more weight in to this. so disappointig.

[@ribbit0525]

thank you.

[@wendi-5496]

vintagexparadise no he committed suicide.

[@valentine-zz2my]

I love Kpop so much but the sad reality of the hardships and pain these groups and artist go through that we don't see as we are only shown the happy side it breaks my heart especially with the artist committing suicide. I hope that the Kpop industry starts to realize and open up about theses issues in the industry and try to change it.

[@valentine-zz2my]

what ???

[@wingnutofcoolness]

It's probably in their contract not to talk about the contract.

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

wania b It is not just Kpop and kpop is new. The HK station TVB has been doing this to their artists for decades when kpop did not even exist yet.

[@bobagreen8668]

wania b tbh it really depends on the company

[@marygracedelacruz1893]

5:36 Jong-Hyun suicide is so sad this picture still makes me teary-eyed. Korean government should do something to stop this suicide chain

[@daylite34]

“Artists are only now starting to expose” No, this has been well known for years now and it used to be much worse but it’s getting better now. South Korea has been making great strides in the last few years to improve the conditions. This video is really just causing more rift.

[@ruthlessrays9761]

daylite34 i know right. These "facts" are way too overdue

[@mariaroxx]

It depends on the company. Not always true

[@zoneinarmei]

Thank God, BigHit (who manages BTS) is unlike the other typical Kpop management companies. •Edit: For those new army or newly-have-interest-in-bts or curious bypassers or even just plain bts haters who doubt my opinion. This thread might give you some ideas of what I actually talk about. twitter.com/bangtanism89/status/1085313145726476288?s=19

[@Cynistrelle]

Sure and you know about that because?..

[@zoneinarmei]

Cynistrelle Cadrelle Because BigHit proves that they treat their talents right. Music material wise, BigHit gives freedom for BTS to make their own musics. Also (CMIIW) unlike other companies who set the Dating-Is-Not-Allowed rules, in my knowledge, BigHit doesn't have that rules (but BTS is too focused on their music they don't have time for dating). BigHit also doesn't ask the talents to go have plastic surgeries to "fix" their appearance. BTS has this close relationships for everyone who support them from the back (such as the CEO, producers, choreographers, other staffs) that they're like a big family. BTS treats their CEO as a mentor or close family, not as their Boss. There are other good things that I could mention regarding BTS and BigHit but there are too many. I know you lots will doubt what I wrote. But hey, Google is your friend. Also you can find many youtube videos that show how BigHit is different from other companies.

[@snisa92]

Cynistrelle Cadrelle BTS have said countless times that they feel really happy to be in bighit and get the freedom in making their own music. And bighit always seem to try to improve their work condition better day by day based on what I see for BTS throughout the years. Besides 2am changmin have said that he dont think that he gonna get another agency that treat him well as good as bighit treat him. So, he end up setting up his own agency. Plus, they dont have dating ban and I guess bighit really good in helping their dating life to be secretive. Bighit give freedom for them managing their own social media like twitter when other agency tend to be the one who manage their artists account.

[@mileycyrus201198]

yall are so brainwashed.. you never know whats going on behind the doors.

[@zoneinarmei]

mono dramas lmao. Why do you sound so depressed?

[@maiyapallas7622]

I feel like anyone knowing K-pop for a week would know all of this...this stuff is still rose with thorns, there's a lot dark and grimy stuff the internet never shows.

[@ceciliamorales6388]

Being a kpop fan for over 3 years now, I've been educating myself on this for all these years. It's heartbreaking as to what they have to go through. We seriously can speak silent about this, and more artists and influencers need to start speaking up more. Some have, And we need to keep spreading the word. No kpop star or any star or influencer should have to be treated like slaves and live a lie, suffer, etc.

[@cinetime2]

This is so disturbing on so many levels. I really love the K-Pop music. It just breaks my heart to hear and read about these things. So, to be successful in the music industry, you have to sell your soul to the devil. Not! Worth! It!

[@emilionema]

With that being said, please be kind to idols. I don't care if you like their songs or not, be kind to them because they put a lot of work into it.

[@holeecheng6873]

They r not so, only care to richly lined their pockets.

[@demure5426]

BTS had strict diets at their debut years or trainee times I think.. But not anymore they are really free and they eat whatever they want

[@suki1398]

Growing up, I was taught that evil needs to be uprooted and destroyed and as a human we must stand up against oppression and injustice. I am not a Kpop fan, however I have a 10 year old daughter who is, which is why i decided to learn more about the kpop industry..however, because I work in social justice, I just couldn't turn a blind eye to the human rights abuses kpop idols are experiencing. I do not have a solution to this horrific and complex issue, however, I do believe a way to start is to shine a light on the evils in order to expose it and then for fans to organise themselves and come together in solidarity to put pressure on the industry to make some changes!! I just hate seeing humans being exploited...so heart breaking

[@aidashishi8353]

Thanks. Good job

[@alaynebyrd2564]

Thumbnail needs to go, Mrs. Swift!!!😑

[@tenmahakusho6390]

It's despicable how poor the working conditions are over there.

[@kimdaehyung9689]

TenmaHakusho in Asia this is normal, overworking your self, don’t compare this to the privileged America

[@haiiiix3]

i can’t believe people still support this after knowing what happens to these people. it’s just selfish.

[@mariaroxx]

People don't really care as long as they can watch and listen to their idols. It's sad!

[@la_11.63]

Eunbyul Park not true, fans of these idols are constantly on the frontlines when it comes to issues. Topics like Sasaengs, trainee abuse, mismanagement is now an open discussion between fans and fans would often protest and do things to change these issues. Everyone is so overzealous of the idea of mismanagement that even with having less lines or wearing stand-off-ish clothes are counted as mismanagement.

[@-aestheticallyjae-8124]

Honestly though this is honestly pretty true. My cousins best friend was a trainee for 2 years. She was so happy that she got excepted to be a trainee that she didn't read the contract at all but just signed it. She was forced to do things that she didn't want to do. Training hard, going on a really strict diet for her debut. After half a year she fell into depression but she had t8 hide it. She kept on training until she had enough of it and talked to the manager that was "taking care" of her and her group mates. They let them off easily because of the carelessness that they put in. No effort to do anything for the future group. Though we're still listening to kpop despite that all happening because we know some companies are different. Just wanted to share a story. If you like listening to kpop just keep listening to it, if you'd like, think that many of the companies/agencies that the idols were under still do take care of them and give them smiles.

[@johnbandadesigns4605]

Well, the thing is, there are probably successful musicians who don't have to go through this or acts that don't suffer as much and might even make better music. I think the extra grind is important in the entertainment industry because a 9 to 5 working schedule won't cut it, but I still believe that there are people who less than them that have made it in the worst. Anyways, fucken solo your shit and great creative freedom

[@SSSS-wq4vn]

A few idols have sued some big record label companies but I know most have lost also.

[@Shadowcat107]

this was very interesting video. there was so much I didn't know about K Pop. great video and thanks for making this video. I love K Pop.

[@MagnificentBirb]

So basically mainstream popstars in general, not just K-Pop

[@luc6nt]

i love fei i’m happy she was featured on this video

[@otispocus7676]

These are reasons why Kpop should be stopped.

[@RebekhaGGamer]

@zot zot American Pop music isn't bad unlike KPop

[@elishamohanty2952]

this breaks my heart...why did i watch this on jonghyun's death anniversary 😭😭

[@whimsygnomerat1382]

K-pop is catchy and lively and just pleasent...but it does tend to lack a soul. Because these songs are made by committees of higher ups and the singers themselves have virtually no autonomy with their presentation. Such a shame because SO many K-pop artists are super talented but are forced to play in a game that doesn't have their interest at heart.

[@Victoria-te2sx]

Get into groups that do write/produce their own music and songs

[@mustang0658]

Wow.. this gives a totally different view of the k-pop

[@svddsosa7396]

now what happens if someone in a “ Slave Contract “ is lame after a while ? like what if after a few years the groups buzz dies down. What does the management do with the group signed to the slave contract ?

[@janifleming]

they literally stay in what i call "the dungeon". the company doesnt let them or give them opportunities to do anything and they cant even prematurely terminate the contract or they risk being sued by the company. there have been several artists like Jimin and Yerin from 15& who openly complain about them writing new songs and wanting to release new music etc but the company doesnt let them. Min from Miss A was in that dungeon for over a year and eventually had to pretty much beg her company to let her audition for a musical. Not surprisingly, she left the company after that when her contract finally expired.

[@melstar926]

There are also some who start lawsuits

[@bobagreen8668]

And that’s why you should support your idols(in a good way). They are going through a lot so cheer for them and help them cope with it and reach their dreams. I wish the companies would stop beating them up.

[@richjenpjhkks]

4.. work to exhaustion.That is the problem I mentioned in earlier comment.

[@Pinkdoll4ever]

Of course you use BTS as the thumbnail 😂

[@Daniela-fu9tq]

...why wouldn't they? they are the face of kpop right now and also examples of those disturbing things in kpop lol

[@Daniela-fu9tq]

Jamie Marie jin was told by the ceo (yes, the bang pd everyone adores) that he looked fat every time he saw him, he confessed he only ate chicken breast a whole year and that's why he looked really skinny on their debut days. also, back in 2016, he clearly hurt his neck and still had to perform like that. bighit may not be as bad as other companies, but they're not saints. but yeah i guess they also could have used shinee as their thumbnail too 🤔

[@ArushiAggarwal]

Jamie Marie Do not bring up Jonghyun and his death as something that only had to do with SM. If you don't know indepth,perhaps, you shouldn't comment.

[@javiruiz4405]

What's bts?

[@fat81]

Daniela i mean you are somwhat correct but bts is far from what some of these idols had to experience. bts get way much freedom than kpop groups now and i dont think the should've used bts as an example when over the years, they get treated WAYY better

[@marscarlson-hong6600]

When they brought up YG I knew 💀

[@valolingouly]

I've followed many diffent K-Pop idols and groups for many years and learned about their hardships throughout thier careers but I didn't know that it caused suicides or that the idols don't even see most of their own hard worked revenues. This breaks my heart to hear. Especially when hearing how the industry enslaves these idols. It's not fair and not right. This would explain why idols don't last very long in the industry. Sad, just sad.

[@Gremoria_]

Oh my god the k-pop lndustry is like doing auditing in a big 4, you do all the work and they get the benefits.

[@loveIetter]

i think most of these things apply to the less known groups from smaller companies tbh

[@aespadrippingtalent7746]

anna yeah I think so too. Because I'm pretty sure with the fame BTS has now, if bighit was doing the same thing to them, they'd leave. I'm very sure

[@donkafacciolo4638]

I had know idea what's going on with K-Pop !! It's very sad that they go through a lot just to do what they love...😭 is it even worth the effort!?!? There needs to be a change so future singers aren't paying the price!!!

[@kimdaehyung9689]

Donka Facciolo this is normal in Asia, you overwork yourself, don’t compare us to the privileged Americans

[@nursalimanursalima795]

WHAT!!!! That HAS to change immediately....our biases life would get ruined unless....they like it like that.

[@budgetfriendlybabe]

This is absolutely sad. Kids should be kids and if they are famous they should be rightly compensated. Smh

[@moistsquish]

Honey this ain’t no secret we all know this, we sometimes choose not to realize it

[@whatywhaty1469]

As a kpop Stan I know all of these and it’s still really upsetting to hear after all the work these idols have done they still receive hate

[@jenniex0x053]

I’m so scared of kpop industry life is so hurt for kpop idols I love America ♥️

[@GranTube]

@nadege innocent But much worse for Kpop idols as we can see

[@Tinarosaurussssssttstst]

@@GranTube oo noo the american industrie just hides it better. It's all the same

[@kimchiiiii0525]

This is the sad reality. Most of their craft really is good. I wish they're treated better, really to end suicide and depression. Is this embedded in korean culture tho? Artists please, if exhausted, leave. Come to the Philippines, we will love you. Fans, guyssss chiiiilll.

[@lowhead_bread]

When you talk kpop things that we longlife kpopers have known those things for 10+ years, It's already a thing from kpop And it's getting minimize years to years

[@kaylathompson2316]

I LOVE KPOP! I still do but watching this I just feel bad😭. its scary what a smile can hide 😢

[@thepenguinofmine9369]

Before you entered at the world of kpop 1. you must know the dark side of kpop 2. you must know your limitation(s) 3. you must know your limitations(s) fanboy or fangirl 4.its your choice to believe it or not 5.this is an important advice to those who new a kpop fan.

[@cindikachnic2068]

So very sad for fame..... I would rather stay a nobody in my happy life.

[@tagaway6173]

I had like some songs from k-pop but I don't define myself as a hard core fan of any artists/group. And i don't imagine myself going to a concert. Here in in the States, fans are super annoying.. . I just enjoy some songs tru youtube. And I don't follow anyone on social media.

[@authornikkih8266]

Taga Way let's be friends we are so alike, I also listen to some songs but I like all kinds of music. I also hate when kpop fans insult other music that isn't kpop.

[@tagaway6173]

Ejiro Okenmor and where are you from? I live in the states since 14 years old but I'm from the Caribbean.

[@authornikkih8266]

Taga Way I'm Nigerian and I live in Nigeria, Africa, what's your instagram handle? I'll send you mine too, also I've lived in Nigeria all my life.

[@tagaway6173]

Ejiro Okenmor Fernanttt .. I don't use Social media alot. ;)

[@authornikkih8266]

Taga Way Huh me too, I'm hardly on instagram

[@kawaiimilktea9558]

I remember there was horrible things in companies like jyp sm ect. Even small companies too. I heard about all these horrible things trainees go through and allegations against trainers and it's just horrible. Long hours of training 12+. Your self esteem really goes down tbh and your limited on food and starve sometimes. It's really horrible..

[@patriciacrawford7512]

Let's hope that change will come......why is this still so attractive.....society's need for social reality and good mental health needs to be expressed with truth and resolutions.....much love

[@ducky3984]

5:35 that's Taemin

[@mip4191]

Well just to lighten up the comment section a bit when I first read the title I thought it said dank and interesting facts yeet

[@Angel-jq9ej]

This is so painful. We do have image and body issues in my country but not to this extent. It's not forced on somebody that they have to have a 'perfect' body.

[@kpoppinteasis8381]

THIS IS WHY I SUPPORT EVERY GROUP, EVEN THOUGH I AM AN ARMY, BECAUSE I KNOW THE HARDSHIPS THAT THE OTHER MEMBERS OF EVERY GROUP IS FACING, THIS IS ALSO WHY I HATE FAN WARS. EVERY IDOL IS GOING THROUGH THEIR PROBLEMS AND WE SHOULD SUPPORT NO MATTER WHAT FANDOM WE ARE IN, IT MAKES ME SAD OF HOW SOME FANS ARE PUTTING HATE ON OTHER GROUPS JUST BECAUSE THEY LIKE THAT ONE SPECIFIC GROUP😤😭😡 I JUST REAAAAALLLLYYYYYYY WANT THESE STUPID FAN WARS TO STOP 😡😤🙄😑