Former Filipino K-pop trainee speaks up about abuse, discrimination

[@0214film]

It's nice to enjoy k-pop & k-dramas but I hope people don't fall for the unrealistic dream of korea they portray. The reality is far from it, their society is judgemental very backward in thinking. They still hold stereotypes about diff races & treat people differently.

[@NoChinaforever17]

how about don't enjoy and look at our stuff. we don't want you watching it while judging our country and people.

[@Zukieee]

@@NoChinaforever17 its not judging, its the reality! And for you to said such a thing as if the korean gov didnt promotes kpop songs & kdrama!! Dont be so close minded.. Do you think South Korea would become what they are today without selling your stuff outside of your country!! You'll end up like north korea for sure.. So stop bitching & saying such a stupid thing like that!! Even you need coal from Indonesia to generate power!! Acting so arrogant jist because your country is so well known now but wont except the reality that has been happening! Your people should open their god damn mind for diversity!!

[@eula1194]

@@NoChinaforever17 good thing I don't like Korean stuff.

[@clownman9404]

@@NoChinaforever17 well, I can say that what he said was true but not all Koreans are bad just like any country there are bad and good people.

[@befaithful3671]

@@NoChinaforever17 😂😆🤣🤣🤣

[@steph3694]

even the native Korean K-pop stars are often mistreated, so I definitely can imagine a foreigner getting it worse. But I think Alvin just was a very unfortunate victim of a scam. I had alot of language school classmates do part time jobs in Korea though

[@uwhaj484]

Part time job is a different case

[@akinemainunangugel9650]

yah ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ scam¯\_ʘ‿ʘ_/¯ multiple companies┐(´д`)┌ me: how many companies you tried before you make your judgement Alvin: yes

[@pikachuthunderbolt3919]

South east Asians are often mistreated and discriminated in east asian countries . But too be honest i find south east Asian to be most open minded , accepting and liberal as a society in whole Asia They should be proud of their traits and build their own creative entertainment industry instead of applying to cram schools 😂 in Korea or China ( trainee school ) . It's hilarious that for every career east asia build cram institute there which kills creativity there .

[@onni504]

K-pop industry is not the only place. Koreans in general seem to have issues being kind to those with darker skin

[@Minyoongeek]

@@onni504yeah. I mean it's not like they all have fair skin? Mostly, everything is fake and under plastic surgeries. So I don't understand why they are so close minded 🤷 I would loved to have a darker skin!

[@marthanav8367]

i hope he's doing ok now. I'm glad that he shared his experience so others will become aware and its not just in Kpop industry that u can feel the discrimination. I've been attending concerts in Korea before, and a "Mestiza" looking Filipina but i still experienced discrimination, what more for my fellow Filipino's who are dark skinned. i hope that they'll learn how to respect and not discriminate

[@eunna4259]

It took just one look to know this guy was scammed by cons. How? He is 100% not of Korean beauty standards. Absolutely no way. Whatever he was in his home country is his opinion but for sure he would have never ever gotten any legit contract by a legit agency. "Sexual harassment"? Sounds funny but whatever, why not name the agency and sue then? In any case, there are bad people all over the world. Kpop is not for everyone. Not trying to be mean but it's just fact. Look hard in the mirror, look hard at successful kpop idols, if you don't look anything like them, go find a different dream. And your voice, you're too short, sorry, just facts. Stay in your home country. it's for your own good. good luck.

[@cupoftea1002]

@@eunna4259 not trying to sound rude but is rude.💀

[@trinayuhhh8771]

@@eunna4259 Kind of having a hard time understanding your point. This comment just pointed out how racist SoKor is to filipinos. Not just us, but to SEA. We know you use filipino as an insult. Alvin just shared his story on how the companies exploited him. Why are you acting like him chasing his dream and getting exploited and sexually harassed is his fault. Also your comment shows how superficial SoKor is but i feel like that a whole different issue that you brought up because it was not even stated in the video. He just told his story of how he was discriminated against because of his skincolor not because of his appearance.

[@peachyrena]

@@eunna4259 have you seen pre-debut vids and pictures of Lisa from blackpink? she didn't meet the korean beauty standards at all yet here she is, being infinitely more successful than any other foreign south east asian idol, and even being more successful than a lot of actual korean idols. if korean beauty standards are this high you guys should find a way to fix that shitty, ugly personality you all seem to have.

[@athenalopez4730]

@@eunna4259 not trying to be mean? girl, you're very rude.

[@yo_wassupdude]

Filipinos are one the best singing voice in Asia. Their voice is powerful and beautiful at the same time. I'm indonesian. Used to be, when there were singing contests in SEA, final stage would only be a battle of Indonesian vs Filipino. We won some, Filipino won some. Our winners have become great singers in our country up till now. I wish the old style SEA singing contests wil be back. Wish the best for all our fellow SEA.

[@user-pt6nk4cq7e]

East Asians especially Koreans focuses more on their appearance. East Asian have close to zero chances in a singing or dancing contest versus Southeast Asians. Even the best and the most famous dancer in KPOP is Southeast Asian (Lisa) 🤣

[@miakayuki1068]

Filipino and Indonesian looks that same. But kpop for me is for korean, Japanese, Chinese, Taiwanese, thailand. We have different features unless they have foreign blood. But this is the reality even in Philippine showbiz only those who have connection in showbiz or have foreign blood usually get a chance to be a celebrity. We cant blame the country it's the industry around the world experience this and the actual person who have done this even Filipino are racist to koreans, chinese, Japan etc and I witness this too. Bigger reward bigger challenges, and this is what the industry we cant expect that they will treat everyone with respect . It's the best man win in that industry so we need to expect the worst.

[@xyzia1720]

@@user-pt6nk4cq7e more like Korea only likes Chinese Japanese as a foreigner member or a western/korean mix but no other Asian type, i have yet to see a Filipino kpop artist

[@sara.cbc92]

@@xyzia1720 why is that surprising. Tribalism is the inherent nature of all races. you associate with someone who looks like you. Filipinos may also favor an Indonesian or polynesian.

[@sara.cbc92]

@@miakayuki1068 Filipinos are starting to annoy me. At first I sympathize with them but now they are really playing the victim card and scapegoating all East Asians. Koreans are Koreans. Chinese and Japanese are also different.

[@GalileeGrandma]

Thank you for covering this subject. I know other "foreigners" in Korea being treated this way by agencies. In general too many Korean entertainment agencies are exploiting "foreign" talent. Stay alert and know the biz before you decide to engage.

[@chrisc1184]

These are fly by night scam companies that exploit foreigners. They need to be cracked down and punished for running these scams.

[@Xentradi97]

People should get real sense of what entertainment industry is. They are all about revenue like most industries. The trainees and artists are products and investments. While the entertainment is fun and engaging, it has its dark sides. And this is true for entertainment industry anywhere around the world.

[@anisha_joshi15]

whatever but an individual cannot assure a safe life in a foreign land and u can't even complain about it to thm

[@anisha_joshi15]

whatever but an individual cannot assure a safe life in a foreign land and u can't even complain about it to thm

[@MD-rp6jd]

lmao they do this to koreans too... you have to automatically be suspicious of literally every no-name agency because there are a lot of scams

[@v_kook4838]

*I actually went to Korea a few years ago to comply for my Architecture course. To my surprise, most of them are rude. I remembered going to couple of restaurants in Seoul and man... HOSPITALITY IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND.* *Racism in Korea is even way terrible compared to my experience wayback to my trip in New York. In NYC, when someone is racist towards me and my friends (we're Singaporean s btw), someone is always on the way for our backs. However, in Korea, THEY EVEN FREAKING support the racist j£rks.* *It's just very shameful for an Asian country to market itself beautifully across the world only for it to be full of racist and disrespectful j£rks. They are disrespectful even to their neighbouring asian races. I'm very sorry if I am being offensive right now, but my whole experience all throught my trip to Korea was very bad that it made me disgust the country regardless of its beautiful culture and artist.*

[@soytasoy3793]

they think highly of themselves they don't know how to look at their origin before, they have become arrogant

[@1991rendrawati]

agree, not every Korean is rude. this is my side of the story: I thought they were rude because of the language or cultural barriers, turned out that was not the case... they are just simply rude. this happened when my country held Asian Games 2018. I met a nice Korean lady, she lived in my country for years. we met because she kind of helped me to get an autograph from a famous football player (well, he plays overseas, so I assumed he will be more open-minded but no). He rejected me harshly and even gave me a scowled face (he saw my face and then just pushed my book away around 3 times, but whenever the Korean fans gave the merch or books, he smiled widely and chit-chatted and gave them selfies). The lady was mad when saw what happened and even scolded him in Korean, he then gave his autograph to me. she told me that she didn't get why he acted so highly toward me and even she said to think twice to let their kids idolize him again. today, I still remember how he treated me in 2018, and lost respect for him forever.

[@v_kook4838]

@@1991rendrawati Oh my God! spill the tea sis

[@TheMacdmond]

@@1991rendrawati it would be nice if you tell us who’s that football player. just a suggestion.

[@angelicaranela4271]

@@1991rendrawati I would like to know his name😲

[@hahalabyu2429]

I remember him he was really famous I think around 2012-2014? So sad to hear about what happened and glad at the same time that he's still fighting in life.

[@yaeduhh]

Yes. I remember a lot of kpop fllo fans waiting for him to debut.. and then he was like disappear until everyone forgot abt him

[@orange.letters5055]

It's a reality, I think, that their culture tries to hide very well. At first, I was very fascinated and overwhelmed by their standards and style of living, but then again, as you go deeper you'll realize another side you didn't expect. At times, you feel the underlying discrimination about physical attributes or physical appearance, language barrier, social status, age difference, well, things like that. In our country, we usually don't mind about these things because it's generally toxic and ridiculous to treat or address a person according to skin color or age, for example, aside from experiencing explicit encounters that must be against any person's will. But this happens behind the curtains of K-pop, the way I observed it. I feel sorry for a fellow Filipino who almost lost his away just for chasing his dream in South Korea. I hope this teaches the others to be wary and be extra careful if they want to be successful abroad.

[@bobafrost7366]

Every place in the world has its good and bad.

[@Xentradi97]

Their culture tries to hide it well? Nope, every dark side of a country or culture is there for people to see. They choose not to or dig deep enough to see it as they are looking outside in. And most people who are outside sees it from drama and movies. Is Hollywood or any showbiz in any country any different? Unless they are shooting documentaries they are all fantasies.

[@BriellaSornFonte]

When ppl have money and a ulterior motives any thing can happen. lol and people will make everyone else feel out of place when really it’s them being out of place

[@Xentradi97]

@@BriellaSornFonte It's called Greed. And it's rather prevalent in every part of the world.

[@BriellaSornFonte]

@@Xentradi97 exactly which is why a lot of companies have a very vampire like approach to ppl

[@hollyminji6154]

I have a cousin who is an assistant language teacher. He is half Filipino half British. His British heritage is more prominent on his appearance. He has been working as ALT in Japan for many years and decided to go to Korea due to higher salary they offered him. He went there but only for a few weeks and went back to Japan. I asked him why did he go back to Japan. He said the school gave him a chance to check the classes and mingle with the students. And from what he had seen, he did not like their attitude and the disrespect at all. Of course, what he had seen is only particular to that school and the students he met that time. Maybe the fact that school was for wealthier families played a factor. Also, when I was in college, there was this Korea exchange student. I don't know if she was being snobbish or shy. We tried to be friend her but she won't interact with us. When someone in the class tried to talk to her, she would just stare and then leave or ignore whoever was talking to her. We thought it could be language barrier she's worried of, but no! She speaks English well. And she only talks and goes out with her fellow Korean exchange student. She went back to Korea without interacting with anyone from the class. So far my only experience with a Korean was not good. I know that not all Koreans are like this, maybe one day I'll meet someone who is better.

[@kit-nun5476]

@corn bread The did the same in my country. They came to our country and be racist at us lol. The audacity!

[@TheMacdmond]

@@kit-nun5476 there’s also a korean company in the philippines called Hanjin Shipping and they got sued for countless abuses against filipino workers. they treat the employees like animals. those poor filos experienced not getting paid while being extremely abused physically, sexually and verbally.

[@jeffbass7626]

@@TheMacdmond i guess that company already tasted it's karma lol it's no longer owned by a Korean for it went bankrupt and absorb by a japanese/Filipino businessman i guess 😂 Edited: I was wrong hanjin was bought by Cerberus a US multinational corporation

[@TheMacdmond]

@@jeffbass7626 serves them right…

[@eunna4259]

It's cause Koreans are not used to low standards. Oh well, we can't all be up at the top. Boohoo.

[@KimmyGibson]

Call me cynical, but I am surprised that this story was provided by The Korea Times! Congratulations to you for getting out of a very difficult situation at such a young age and sorry you did not escape without suffering mental health issues. I am glad you are alive to tell your story and move forward with your life. I've long said that the Kpop industry needs a reputable entertainment union to represent and stand up for the hopeful young people who sign contracts with agencies. I've been following Kpop and Kdrama for about 15 years now and have heard stories just like yours and shed tears over young people who took their lives. Hold your head up high and be very proud that you made the decision to leave!! You never know who will be helped by your story, so thank you or having the courage to tell it. YOU are enough!! Grandma from Ohio USA

[@joseph3036]

At least Korean media reports on such issues to bring awareness. In China it never happens, you'll get discriminated against and any mention of it on social media will be quickly censored.

[@donardodavinci6126]

@@joseph3036 there is a basic difference between China and South Korea though: Chinese people don't have access to the Internet and most of them have never seen a person of color or other ethnicities. It's well known that the Chinese government put all the Uiguren away and that the general public is very compliant. It's how they are raised and you reflect your environment. It's still bad, but you can't tell people to know something about someone when their government actively keeps them from it. South Korean have access to the Internet and social media platforms. The entertainment and beauty industry is marketed worldwide to support a system that discriminates its customers. Looking at Korea's global success in the last decade they should've included proper classes in their educational system and make sure that everyone in their country feels safe and respected. It's unbelievable how backwards their laws, norms and mindsets are, considering their economic international value. SK also markets the (false) image of their country, China solely its products.

[@fuckonoff127]

Industry needs to fucking change. Human rights for native Korean and foreigner trainees. Legal rights for all. It's ridiculous in this day and age that situations like this arise. I do not watch KPop. I do not support such an industry with a sh*tty human rights record. I am done.

[@kellyfrances4943]

Hi there - I just thought I'd mention that the Korea Times learned about this lovely person through me as I was preparing for a docu-series on visa abuse. I run a support group for performers in Seoul. The PD I work with is a rare type of journalist who seeks to give voices to people who've been mistreated - and she's shown a lot of interest in preventing sexual violence and abuse of women and expats. She's taken personal time to help some of my members seek help. I can't say enough positive things about her. I can understand the cynicism, but it was me who made this introduction. I met Alvin in Seoul - who spent a night at my home at a bad time. I couldn't be prouder of Alvin today. Best wishes to you and thanks for watching.

[@froggielove]

This really makes me sad. My mom is Filipina and my dad is Korean. I embrace both sides but Korea still has so many narrow-minded people. It's ironic because Koreans who want to be famous in the Philippines are welcomed with open arms and have a lot of support from Filipinos. I don't want to list names but there is a Korean host/comedian who is popular in the Philippines. Have you ever seen a Filipino host/comedian become famous on Korean entertainment programs? :(

[@soytasoy3793]

SoKor think highly of themselves they don't know how to look at their origin before, they have become arrogant

[@KnightGeneral]

Yep, Ryan Bang.

[@userk0jks73fq5]

Ryan bang, and sandara park

[@sara.cbc92]

So you are a Kopino

[@hanashin1276]

they're only "narrow minded" to you because you do not belong to the pure breed korean. if you were pure breed korean, then koreans wouldn't seem so "narrow minded" to you. i find your comment "narrow minded". embrace your filip side and call it a day dear. stop complaining

[@FutureGround]

I’m a white American living in South Korea and I met many South Korean girls with normal Korean skin who thought they were too dark. I always told them that they were out of their minds. Such nonsense really disgusted me and turned me off majorly. Because of the mainstream culture on skin color they were criticizing their own skin. One of my girlfriends even got her face bleached before she met me (She said her family told her she has some Arabic blood way back in her lineage),

[@inezamy9523]

😭😭😭😭

[@officialchickenn]

💀

[@Daniel23424]

Yeah these korean japanese and chinese are weird about looks

[@rajs7876]

@@Daniel23424 Everyone is but literally in Korea, maybe 1 in 100 people fit their unrealistic unnatural wayward beauty standard so the rest of the 99 percent have to do surgery or be discriminated against. I no longer support Korean entertainment until they stop discrimination. And I don't want yo seenpeople who look like aliens and ghosts

[@vmuller784]

Why are you identifying yourself as a “white American” when you, on your past comments, mentioned you were Filipino?

[@TalkToMeInTagalog]

Dark skin tone is frowned upon in S. Korea. They tend to associate it with poverty.

[@brentoy]

Korea is the master of '𝙎𝙤𝙛𝙩 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜', a.k.a manipulation; this strategy is to influence (BRAINWASH) thus manipulate the world - and their own society into thinking Korea is innocent with the "power of attraction". This method is a coercive process made through many means with corrupted ideology in [not limited to] cultural, political, social, economical and even through military ideals. In short, Korea encourages cultural immersion and adaptation (odoption) - for RACIAL HIERARCHY, and they're winning it!

[@user-pt6nk4cq7e]

Yeah that's why they're trying hard to have fair skin. Look at their beauty products, its mostly whitening. It's very effective though 🤣

[@xyzia1720]

? yes fair skin was put up as a beauty standard in the early times of S korea because tanned skin was seen as a sign of being a worker under the sun but that view is more in the past now? Yes fair skin in SKorea is still a beauty standard but noone think tan is linked with poverty now its 2022

[@miakayuki1068]

Here in ph those with looking like chinese are descrimation too, Indians, Africans I guess it's a tie. Filipino are not inoccent, they are nicer to the whites. So don't associate racism to a country it's individual problem

[@TalkToMeInTagalog]

Try living in S. Korea and see for yourself that this sad reality is commonplace even in 2022.

[@primcessjuly]

To any Filipinos out there who wants to become a Kpop Idol I support y'all. But I do wanna suggest you to audition first here in our country for Ppop and help our music industry (OPM/PPOP). If you want to become an idol why not here in our country first? Compete your own countrymen first and challenge yourselves. Filipinos are known to be competitive when it comes to music and I think it's time to indulge more into our own💖 Compete Filipino talents first and undergo training here with our worldclass artists like KZ, Morisette and others. SB19 is paving the way for Ppop and just a little push and help, we'll be there in our destination. This is just a suggestion tho but if you really want to go abroad, it's good too! Just be safe and be strong♡ Represent our country well and we got your back!💖

[@howyouliveyourlifeisyourka2896]

💯

[@chrisc1184]

I love morisette.

[@Xentradi97]

That sounds like a plan but the reality is, Philippines Entertainment industry has even less opportunities. They don't pay as well and if you think the Filipino Industry is some how cleaner or fairer than the Korean or any others, you'd be sadly mistaken. There's a reason why so many Filipinos leave the country for opportunities outside. Industry should get better from within. But unfortunately that's not how it is today.

[@jero4321]

My fellow Filipino, I understand that Ppop is slowly growing in the Philippines, but even we Filipinos do not support our own music. As a Filipino, you are aware of this, and besides, the Ppop industry in the Philippines is not fully supported by our government, whereas in South Korea, when they faced a crisis and saw an opportunity to succeed through music, they poured millions of dollars into the industry, and they even have a separate ministry dedicated solely to Kpop, which is why many of us filipino want to be Kpop Idol rather than Ppop idol. I also asked my friends in dance workshops because we train there to become great dancers and we all share the same dream of being able to become trainees in Korea and debut as an Idol there, and I asked if they were interested in debuting here in the Philippines, and they said no because Filipinos prefer to watch vloggers rather than Ppop idols, so it would be a waste of time if you debuted here. Maybe it's just their perspective, but I believe they are right since, despite the fact that they don't understand the lyrics of a song as well in Kpop as they do in Ppop, Filipinos still love Kpop songs, and I prefer to listen to kpop over ppop. I'm not sure why, but it is what it is. That is why my dance workshop friends said what they said.

[@jero4321]

@ZHU Yes, my other dance workshop classmate also advised me that joining a group that covers Kpop songs on KZbin is much preferable rather than debuting as a Ppop Idol. For example, look up Press Hit Play and even Kaia on KZbin; they are Ppop Idols. When you compare them to Alpha PH on KZbin, you'll notice that they are on par, and in some cases, Alpha PH outperforms these Ppop idols in terms of KZbin views because they dance to Kpop songs. For myself, I'd rather join Alpha Ph than debut as a Ppop idol. Yes, we have SB19 here in the Philippines, the ace in Ppop, and I'm a fan of them as well, but I believe that those streams that are present in SB19's videos are mostly filipinos. Please compare it to groups like Drippn, Ciipher, and Mirae, who have just recently debuted but have similar and even more views than SB19. This is because kpop is global and has a lot of global fans.

[@rhoxdethxyrhonemercado2509]

Do not be blinded by what you see in KDramas and KPop. South Korea is literally different from what Entertainment Media portrayed that one of the most racist country on Earth. Even their fellow countryman is experiencing discrimination and racism in their OWN country what more a Foreigner like you right you? So do not go to South Korea you'll just be hurt even though you love their artists whether it is a K-Actor or Kpop Idol perhaps scenery and foods?.

[@goinbulilit3846]

Even BULLYING scandals in their school for their fellow Korean is pretty everywhere and now running after their actor's and singer's. Ofcourse bullying is bad and not just in Korea but to think that it exists in Korea and not just simply bullying because DEATH'S are involved.

[@ForeignerinCanada]

Agree

[@gwenmloveskpopandmore]

@@goinbulilit3846 yeah I know because last year a Korean male teen took his own life after being bullied in school I blame his school for taking away his phone but I’m already starting to blame his parents for making him go to that school

[@gwenmloveskpopandmore]

I just wanna go there to study abroad there and Japan because I’ve never gone outside the U.S

[@goinbulilit3846]

@@gwenmloveskpopandmore goodluck on your pursuit... just stay safe and enjoy. Also, do not hesitate to report to the school or your embassy if anything that will put you in danger.

[@rapjr24]

Listen people. East Asian countries (China, Japan and South Korea) have strong homogeneous societal culture. They share a lot of cultural similarities including beauty standards. South Korea in particular is a collectivistic society. They have a strong tendency to discriminate people not from the same ethnicity. It is very difficult for non-East Asian people to blend into their culture what more become a KPOP idol. It will take 3 open-minded generations to change it. My advice to Filipinos is if you're not East Asian looking then don't dare dream of becoming a KPOP idol. It is better to build a South East Asian Pop genre. South East Asia could be a music power house too.

[@지인입니다_Miss_TeaRiosa]

Well there are also black and indians who went to be a kpop traniee. Not just a filipino.

[@ray.ar.5757]

I agree!! every race has the right n potential to rise and shine 👍

[@rajs7876]

Philippinos are East Asians. And discrimination is abhorrent always. No excuses. Don't validate racism. Korea and Japan have based their contemporary music industries on Black music. If they don't want to be open then come up with your own music and movies

[@rapjr24]

@@rajs7876 Filipinos are not East Asians! Philippines is in SOUTH East Asia. My point exactly is for South East Asian nations Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and others to come together, support each other to make their own POP music and Idol groups. There are great talents from these countries too. Excuse me I am not validating racism. I'm stating the obvious that South Koreans are racist as F* and those nationalities who are supporting kpop but getting discriminated by Koreans should think otherwise!

[@0005wai]

@@rajs7876 mate Filipinos are South East Asians…. Kinda different from East Asians

[@_previously]

I’ve been a kpop fan since 2009-2010 and I don’t regret it. I met some amazing people I’m still friends w today and I have some groups that I’ll love until I die. But kpop began losing its magic as I got older and more aware of the world we live in. You begin to understand how difficult being an trainee and an idol is, how much they have to sacrifice for their job and fans, how much of what we see on screen is fake and scripted, how idols and their companies capitalize and profit off of a potentially dangerous bf/gf fantasy they shove down fans’ throats, how companies and the industry exploit young people, their dreams and talents. I’m not even going to get into the racism, sexism, fat-phobia, colorism, misogyny, cultural appropriation, fandom toxicity, etc. that goes on but, those are also reasons why I’ve kind of fell off the kpop stan train a few years ago. I used to idolize and idealize Korea and kpop idols but, please keep yourself grounded in reality. Don’t fall for the fantasy that these companies have created bc we’ve seen that these companies and even some of the idols that debut are not who they say they are. As much as I want to ignore the darker side of being a kpop fan and indulge in the catchy music, unique mvs and cool dances, I have to remember that that is doing a disservice to people like Alvin who have genuinely suffered under their system. We as kpop fans HAVE to talk about this, we have to be outraged bc if we aren’t, the conditions trainees and idols work in, what they have to endure from their company behind closed doors will never change. At the end of the day, it isn’t about you or the idols, it isn’t even about the music. It’s all about the money for them.

[@1991rendrawati]

agree, I am like you because I am into kpop back in 2009 and a few years back, I began to see and read about society there... so many sad truths over there including foreign women who were abused by their workers or husbands. we need to talk about it.

[@neilbyronasunza4230]

This is so sad expectation vs reality, be strong Alvin you can do better.❤️🇵🇭

[@zeasus2830]

I can feel his pain in his voice. I wish him the best for the future.

[@johnmongver]

I'm a Filipino. I studied and worked in Korea for more than 3 years. It's hard to be a Filipino there. Please go to Korea with an informed decision. It's hard when you're there alone. Until now, I tremble or even cry when I talk about my experience in Korea.

[@DawnAAA]

i am so sorry for your bad experience

[@morbidangel1900]

I feel you buddy. Same expi here. 🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@fuckonoff127]

I'm so sorry for your experience. Coming from someone who is half ethnically Korean by blood, it's shameful the way Korean society treats people who don't conform to their narrow fucking standard. I've also experienced my fair share of sh*t interacting with that society and also have trauma. It's unjust and it needs to change. Foreigners and people from multicultural families need to be treated like actual human beings, not animals. I think interacting with Korean society opened my eyes up the widest to the importance of human rights and widespread education. I don't know you in real life, but please, don't blame yourself no matter what. You are a human being and deserve to be treated with basic dignity and respect. If some people don't understand that, then f*ck them.

[@alandepablo3300]

I have read articles and watched reviews about racism and discrimination in Korea,, why are some people there are too high on their standard when as a matter of fact some of them are cosmetically changed their faces to become famous. That they almost look exactly the same. Where are the uniqueness of these people. They don't have the right to judge a person by just looking at their color or their faces or whatever country they came from. I am a Filipino too,, but it's too much really,, to these racist,, stop acting superior,, or acting like God,, being thin, white, tall and enhanced beauties by surgery... Atleast Filipinos are just being true to their selves.

[@palak7771]

​@@alandepablo3300I completely agree with you

[@havensohn3821]

That's why research is important when it comes to going to foreign places. So many foreign kpop idol wannabes want to get in the big 3 companies but end up settling for shady companies because time is ticking. From what I can tell you can only really be a foreign idol if you are rich and you'll have a bad time if you take what you can get without any prior knowledge.

[@tresnosliramu6956]

Most of SEA idols are rich to begin with, so its actually prevent them for scams like this

[@russian-korean5869]

@@tresnosliramu6956 Racism is not limited to Koreans, and there are many racist countries in the world. In particular, Filipinos are particularly famous for raising issues with the purpose of racism against Koreans. I just think it's good that Filipinos don't pay attention to Korea. I think it's better to just develop the Filipino culture and develop your own culture. Most Filipinos hate Koreans. That's why I think it's better to pretend we don't know each other and not pay attention to each other. I think racism is clearly a bad thing and needs to be reflected.

[@russian-korean5869]

@@tresnosliramu6956 Blackpink's Lisa (Thai) Secret members Dita (Indonesia)

[@TheMacdmond]

@@russian-korean5869 I’m pretty sure filipinos don’t blatantly hate koreans. a lot of koreans live here in ph and don’t experience racism but I can’t say the same for filos living in sk. and you can’t blame some filos for being disgusted with your fellow koreans’ extreme racism and colorism againt filos and other asians.

[@lovememoreeeee]

I’m not Filipino but the disrespect that some East Asians countries have (especially Korea) against Filipino ppl is acc disgusting. It’s so unfair when Filipino fans are the ones who are supporting half of the kpop industry’s economy

[@ryewvvark2644]

Not only filipinos.. But foreigners especially people of color.

[@sara.cbc92]

I'm Chinese Canadian. I have no ill feelings towards Filipinos or SEA. Infact I like them more than Koreans by far. However, tbh I would probably not consider dating one. I prefer my own kind and this is my own default preference.

[@sumi4218]

A Japanese teacher once said the if the Filipino's stop supporting their kpop industry, the Philippines would prosper more

[@brentoy]

Korea is the master of '𝙎𝙤𝙛𝙩 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜', a.k.a manipulation; this strategy is to influence (BRAINWASH) thus manipulate the world - and their own society into thinking Korea is innocent with the "power of attraction". This method is a coercive process made through many means with corrupted ideology in [not limited to] cultural, political, social, economical and even through military ideals. In short, Korea encourages cultural immersion and adaptation (odoption) - for RACIAL HIERARCHY, and they're winning it!

[@adenielle2331]

@@sumi4218 ngl but i doubt that, haha Japan also fûcked Philippines up, if you know history. besides that, it’s also PH’s economy and their lack of good decision-making skills, just look at how they voted during elections. it’s beyond just “supporting the K-POP industry”, there’s a lot of bad things in the PH that needs to he addressed and changed for it to truly “prosper”. sure, maybe supporting the K-POP industry less would make Filipinos love their own country more, but if you are given so many bas reasons to hate your country or at least dislike some aspects of it, could you truly blame loving another culture and/or country for it?

[@chillbunnyandbears1034]

I am glad the he shared his story and I felt really sad when he suffered from all these things that happen in Korean. I hope he continues to stay strong and his future will always shine bright! ❤😄🎇☀

[@marikurusudesu]

Alvin -Kudos for you . I hope that this will be a wake up call to all. Keep yourself healthy. I’ll be here when you need someone to talk to.

[@petralustig3171]

♥️

[@teachmehowtodoge1737]

Unfortunately this happens not only to Filipino trainees, it even happened to Korean trainees. Some big shots industry target vulnerable people who wanted to rise to stardom.

[@fuckonoff127]

Sh*tty f*cking industry with no concept of decency or human rights. Absolutely brainwashed society that doesn't even respect or care for the welfare of its own people. Absolute ignorance towards foreigners and no willingness to change whatsoever. I just...can't.

[@NBS-rk8bl]

Oh come on, don't try to twist the story, Filipino trainees are more discriminated ..

[@teachmehowtodoge1737]

@@NBS-rk8bl Twist? You can search the internet if you have time. It's public info.

[@velmalegaspi1741]

I can’t Imagine living in Korea when they grow up being taught looks and lighter skin colors the most important. Personality and Talent is secondary to them.

[@soytasoy3793]

they think highly of themselves they don't know how to look at their origin before, they have become arrogant

[@maidaraman7726]

Idols couldn't sing heavily relied on auto tunes 😁

[@maidaraman7726]

Ah maybe they got war shocked and pass it on to their younger generations 😁..a kind of a mental disorder that can't live in peace and harmony. I cant imagine living in a non Christian country. It's like a haven of hellish acts all the way. Poor thing SoKor 😂

[@jinshin5392]

Beauty standard in SK is very high. I can see Filipinos are excellent in many ways. Filipinos are pure talented and educated. Just be yourself. 🇵🇭❤️🌸

[@yenb2537]

@ZHU This is why most of them don’t look normal anymore. Too pale, they look like plastic, too thin or too many surgeries done on their faces. Although this is not frowned upon in their country because their Gov’t also capitalizes on the Kpop industry for revenue it is slowly but surely creating mentally unstable, highly anxious artists. Suicide rates is alarming and needs to be addressed properly as well but that won’t happen soon, I reckon.

[@riaon]

and filipinos they are beautiful as well

[@mangopudding5979]

Beauty standards in SK isn't High, it's repulsive.

[@NBS-rk8bl]

And yet they can't win a single crown in Miss universe...

[@reviwhitney5914]

Racism and discrimination is everywhere. We are human can be disgusting treated our own kind with unkindness and immoral. Evil is everywhere. I hope you have a brighter future a head of you.

[@beeswaxmcgee2883]

What a compassionate comment! It's like comforting a friend who lost a loved and saying "it's OK, people die all the time"

[@TheMacdmond]

@@Natasha-to1mh yeah. south korea is the most racist and colorist asian country, probably overall. extreme school bullying is a thing in every school there and students die due to physical, mental and emotional trauma.

[@teruterubozu45]

Mistreatment happens a lot to even Korean trainees, I can imagine the mistreatment must be much harder for foreign trainees, especially for those who don’t have oriental or caucasian look. Hope the best for him

[@sara.cbc92]

@ZHU Facts

[@Wingzero90939]

@ZHU Also Pristin, none of the Chinese talent ever seems to stick around… They only usually finish out their contract and then go back to China because it’s better for them.

[@TheMacdmond]

@ZHU it’s the whole kpop industry being regulated in china. it’s not only bts who are blocked for performing in large venues.

[@iipsarifudin9999]

Kpop and k drama are just illution that make people dream about what beautiful life in korea. The fact korean people have different life with kdrama

[@NoChinaforever17]

you jealous lol. your country can't make such good entertainment and soft power

[@janethmariblanca4682]

Ur such an immature...

[@rhoxdethxyrhonemercado2509]

@@NoChinaforever17 lol the Entertainment Industry in Korea just COPIED the entire Entertainment Industry in Japan. Don't forget that you guys copied China in Culture and Tradition. No wonder the Mongolians and North Koreans is laughing at South Korea. South Korea do not even have a originality. I pity you.

[@amiyyahmarie6389]

@@NoChinaforever17 what she said literally has nothing to do with entertainment

[@iipsarifudin9999]

@@NoChinaforever17 suicide rate in korea is the highest. Im not korean. But i know how challaging life in there.

[@kaest4]

Sending you prayers and love. Live your best life. Never give up.

[@martin4374]

This is just incredibly sad. I hear about other Filipinos who try to make it out there, but the sad reality is if you do not have the right look, skin color, aren't fluent in Korean, or even a Korean citizen, you will not get far. There is a lot of racism in the industry, and a lot of resentment would result in a company signing and debuting a non-Korean. There is a company called ShowBT, based in Korea, but trains idols for debut in the Philippines. They are the force behind SB19, KAIA, and an upcoming group.

[@jkhww9663]

im so sorry to hear that. as a korean i feel so ashamed when i heard about discrimination in my country. i hope you get well soon and hope our people stop being rasist to other foreigners. really sorry to Alvin..

[@userk0jks73fq5]

Are koreans really that judgemental in general? This may come off rude but I'm asking genuinely

[@jkhww9663]

@@userk0jks73fq5 first of all, yes.its almost true. but there are a few things I'd like you to consider. first, Our society lacks diversity of culture and race. we have been monoculture country for thousands years and we became multiple culture in 2000s. so our people lack about foreigners and different cultures. There is also insufficient education for other cultures and races.. but there are so many foreigners in some city now and i know one city, the head of community is filipina i hope you believe we're trying to be better. The National Human Rights Commission of Korea is working hard to solve the rasism problem (especially migrant worker). and many people calling on the Government to enact anti-discrimination law. It's okay if you don't believe me cause our people hurt you guys many time. I'm so sorry and feel so embarrassed everytime. especially, im very sorry to fans who love kpop and kdrama(loving our culture)(and i really appreciate to kpop and kdrama fans.) i know SEA people like phillipines are very kind and lack of rasism so i envy you guys. i hope we are be kind like SEA people. so my lifelong wish is korean recognize the diversity and be kind different race. i really sorry for this problem again,(and sorry to my awful english.) and hope you have a good day.

[@han7oee]

@@jkhww9663 hello I know your comment is not for me, but thank you for acknowledging what some of your fellow countrymen have done wrong to foreigners. In my opinion, you didn't have to apologize but thanks for doing so. I have many bad experiences with your people and have started to hate your country and society, but having people like you prevent me from doing so. I hope you are always well and staying safe, much love to you :) P.S, Your English is fine and understandable so don't worry

[@jkhww9663]

@@han7oee thanks a lot 😊 and i hope you have a good day too.

[@eunna4259]

don't be stupid, there is worse discrimination all over the world. at least in korea you don't get murdered, brutally assaulted by random strangers just for being a different race. "ashamed"? you should be ashamed of yourself. ridiculous.

[@parhutahian]

this is WHY I love Thai entertainment system the most. Guaranteed there are shitty companies in every entertainment industry. But if you dive into Thai's entertainment, you'll be amazed on how celebrities manage their lives (hell, I'm not even Thai but I like how they do things there).any actress, actors, singers, you name it, holds or is taking a college degree. Some of them are doctors, dentist, architects, engineers, pilot, stewardesses etc. Actors like Mew Suppasit and Up are studying PHD, others are on their way to getting masters. Point is, their family put priority to education, and if they have free time in between classes, they do other jobs. When entertainment is not working well, they still have their education to continue life with. Meanwhile, idols in korea, when they flopped, nothing is left.

[@pikachuthunderbolt3919]

South east Asians are often mistreated and discriminated in east asian countries . But too be honest i find south east Asian to be most open minded , accepting and liberal as a society in whole Asia They should be proud of their traits and build their own creative entertainment industry instead of applying to cram schools 😂 in Korea or China ( trainee school ) . It's hilarious that for every career east asia build cram institute there which kills creativity there .

[@ArtIsDrawing]

and korean idols are too busy dating or bullyng

[@sabastinbach3949]

I agree Thai entertainment have back up plans, but Thailand also now are into so called K-pop korean looks where some dramas I watch, I think I'm watching K dramas instead of Thai because of the way they look and dress and one show one character referred another as Oppa when they are all Thai. At least though most Thai actors/singers prepare themselves for a life if entertainment doesn't work out but it's sad when other races begin to mirror another race. I'm asian and the whole counrtry is fair skinned obsessed it looks frign weird when people are putting on whiter skin products on than their own skin colour. 😌

[@xarixaa2343]

Yes. Mira (Fah Yongwaree Anilbol) in F4 Thailand has a degree in aviation as well as a law degree. She's also incredibly beautiful.

[@Buttsceatcgee]

This is why i like American pop, because at least you can be different, different sizes, colors, style, and the artists can be their own bosses.

[@mkrowenp]

I’m rooting for your success and happiness 💖

[@theitboywonder]

That's why we need to build our own Media and support our own music and etc....

[@BRYANLEECABATAY]

Please support our PPOP groups po salamat

[@ariamnemmon]

@@BRYANLEECABATAY (2)

[@BlackWidow2946]

Thank you for telling the truth so that others won't go through the same trauma. It is terrible, the entertainment industry is full of pedophiles and sexual deviants. Never go into this business alone, unless you have family come with you. More people need to speak out about this because this sexual abuse and taking advantage of young people is not right and these criminals need to go to jail.

[@illumirein]

yakap. hope you'll find peace and comfort after all the things that happened to you. wishing you all the best :)

[@nabi5864]

From what I heard from the inside, the big 4 exclusively looks at Korean trainees from wealthy elites before looking at ones from other countries...the next initial screening process is that you have to have the "look" , then the the singing dancing ability to go with it... All trainees must be obedient and coachable, able to pick things up fast like learning different languages, memorizing songs and choreography, constantly improving their talent, and learning how to be a "star".

[@TheMacdmond]

it’s just the big 3 or should I say medium 3 now. hybe has many flaws but not as bad as those 3.

[@mysteriogaming478]

No wonder why TOP really hates the training system in Kpop that’s why he’s going to make a company to help trainees to make there dreams come true

[@parkminrin9014]

@@mysteriogaming478 That is an interesting agency. I hope to join soon

[@mysteriogaming478]

@@parkminrin9014 same

[@han7oee]

@@mysteriogaming478 TOP from Big Bang?

[@sheen6855]

It's scary to think how different "real" Korean society is than the reel they portray. They have become very westernized in terms of clothing and superficial stuff but ridiculously scary in terms of basic human rights and appearances. And this is not just for the foreigners. I've been watching kdramas and movies for a long time and you can see how the actors in the older dramas had, I don't wanna say darker but like a more normal and true Korean skin tone. Whereas now, everyone is literally just white. I can't imagine how this is affecting the normal people who take these actors as their idols and that's probably why a majority of people are obsessed with going under the knife. Korean society is the perfect example of don't judge a book by its cover. It looks absolutely beautiful and otherworldly from outside but the closer you get to it, you either get bullied for being different, or you need to change your basic existence to fit in. Extremely sad, especially I feel for the Koreans who themselves go through this everyday.

[@enalynchannel6670]

Well said 👏

[@han7oee]

What to expect when their country becomes advanced in a short amount of time? This is why their messed up emotionally, psychologically and physically because advancement always has a setback. Its both a curse and a blessing. In the long run, they're the ones suffering the most. You can see this portrayed in Kdramas and movies (Parasite, Itaewon Class, etc)

[@brentoy]

Korea is the master of '𝙎𝙤𝙛𝙩 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜', a.k.a manipulation; this strategy is to influence (BRAINWASH) thus manipulate the world - and their own society into thinking Korea is innocent with the "power of attraction". This method is a coercive process made through many means with corrupted ideology in [not limited to] cultural, political, social, economical and even through military ideals. In short, Korea encourages cultural immersion and adaptation (odoption) - for RACIAL HIERARCHY, and they're winning it!

[@CrankDatJonasBoi]

racism is also a western thing, let's not act like the west is any better i'd dare to say it's actually worse. when you get taken over by the us military for years (which is known to uphold white supremacists ideals), this type of attitude is expected.

[@adenielle2331]

This is because people romanticize k-dramas and movies, expecting that real life is the same. That’s just naïve to think that Korea won’t have its flaws and imperfections, same goes for Koreans. This is why for every content that you consume, always take it with a grain of salt, always fact-check, and don’t just believe everything you see 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@deedee_22]

When watching this i remembered my bias in kpop now in hiatus, he's foreigner too.. what makes fans feel something wrong somewhere is why suddenly hiatus? And fans already noticed that he always being mistreated by his company before he hiatus. And when watching this making me more ovt and start to thinking negative cause before this i keep reassuring myself that he just take a rest for a while but it suspicious for a real...i just hoping he comeback ASAP huhu...This really make me lost interest in kpop rn, sometimes glad too because i can focus on my life more hehe...

[@njarasoarumpf8464]

hope you doing fine now. This is terrible, I truly hope that kpop will have real and decent contracts once.

[@AsianSP]

That’s why I always support Ppop.. relatable na less toxic pa.

[@jevaabawan1099]

True, Ppop rise

[@ellecan2195]

Yeah, I agree. There’s not much issue in Ppop, but we will never know, if there are some issues there.

[@czypherth]

dadami rin satin. Lalo na kung maging mainstream. Kaya ang maganda is ma observe natin yung peace and order for the future.

[@akinemainunangugel9650]

​@@czypherth kahit naman di pa mainstream yang Kpop toxic na yan year 2007 may Kdrama na pinapanood ang isa sa ate ko mga kdrama na tungkol sa pagiging Idol or entertainment napaka toxic sabi ng ate ko drama lang kaya ganun, pero kapitbahay nila kurian nag kwento kasi nga toxic sa kanila kaya tumakas dito nanirahan pero sila mismo toxic, gusto pinoy ang mag-aral ng Korean para makipag-usap o English lang pwede😅 kung ang Japanese racist level 1 white American racist level 2 Korean racist level 3-4 kahit na sila ang nasa ibang bansa gusto pa sila ang i please... hopefully hinde lahat

[@markyivangabriel9162]

True less toxic ang ppop

[@random-ish1976]

All those kdramas and manwhas i've seen and read with plots like this. It still is scary to hear it actually happen from that person themselves.

[@venessagracesison9617]

sk is a racist country as hell. I experienced it first hand the way they treated a friend who had darker skin color ( they wouldnt even talk to her or look her when she was trying to buy skin stuff)& mind you consistent everywhere- old and young koreans circa 2019. I had trauma with how bad they are. So I dont get the googly eyes we have for these korean stars. Its ingrained in their society, its that bad -its like asian hate in america but in reverse..

[@NoChinaforever17]

We are not racist at all. we keep to ourselves and marry our own kind. stay with your own people and you will be fine. don't come and mix with us.

[@edensurfer4239]

@@NoChinaforever17 the racist in you really jumped out huh, get off internet and take therapy

[@hongsamwine]

@@NoChinaforever17 dude, that’s literally the definition of racist???

[@NoChinaforever17]

@@hongsamwine No. Racism would be calling you a Jang Gae

[@hongsamwine]

@@NoChinaforever17 telling people to keep to their ‘own kind’ is essentially saying they’re not one of us, hence an outsider aka, a foreigner. That’s xenophobia dude. Funny how you’re telling people to keep to their own when a (I’m assuming) Korean male is literally typing in English, a foreign western language. I reckon you should stick to Korean from now own and get off non-Korean sites like KZbin at the same time, don’t wanna be mixing with people who are not your kind yknow. 😉

[@miakato885]

This story only tells us one thing, not everything you see on television . . . Is REAL. K-pop idols are pretty, handsome, earning higher, looks cool, looks happy, looks fresh, looks perfect, not until you hear their honest background story about how reach where they are. Sometimes, we might think they are lucky because they have good looks and fame, but you never know, they also think we guys are lucky, because we don't have to face all the pressures like they do. Pressure to look good, pressure to dance well, pressure to sing perfectly, pressure to entertain fans, pressure to do what your agency told so. If Kpop industry is a fun, then why do there are many idols who got depress and even commit suicide?

[@chimera8199]

Hi everyone! Ppop industry is on rise here in the Philippines and we are already making it to the international scene, and we are already at hollywood for decades it's just most play roles of characters from other country. Check Bruno Mars and Vanessa Hudgens as well as Olivia Rodrigo and Philharmonic. And to add up we are proud of our fellow Filipinos who clean houses overseas. ❤ Sending love to everyone.

[@soniafrancisco3774]

crazy Vanessa Hudgens is American Citizen including Bruno Mars and Olivia Rodrigo where did you get that information that they are Filipinos their mothers or Father have Filipino Blood but they were race and live in America all their lives they are not Filipinos but American Citizen 🤔 .

[@chimera8199]

@@soniafrancisco3774 aww 🥱

[@chimera8199]

@ZHU 🥱

[@SKoreanKimchi]

It’s sad when u see Filipinos be proud of those people. Goes to show u they don’t have a lot to be proud of so their pinoy pride gravitate towards those celebrities

[@chimera8199]

Bobo at reading comprehension at it's finest. Tsk. Kalat men

[@alyanadrua4153]

I've actually heard about him a few years ago but I did wonder what happened to him. Seeing there's no Filipino k-pop idol going around, I just assume that he didn't make it to debut. Its really sad that this happened to him, he doesn't deserve it at all.

[@eleonoraiacovou228]

THIS IS THE TRUE FACE OF K POP INDUSTRY.FOR ALL THE TEENS WHO DONT HAVE PROTECTION NOT FROM FAMILY NOT FROM ANYONE BECAUSE KOREAN CULTURE AND SOCIETY NEEDS TO EVOLVE TO BE FREE CONTEMBORARY DEMOCRATIC JUSTICE AND OPEN MINDED SOCIETY .THEY NEED SO MUCH WORK AND PROGRESS .ITS SO SAD AND AUFUL .ITS NO DIFFERENT IN CHINA JAPAN AND OTHER ASIAN CULTURES.IF ONLY THEIR YOUNG PEOPLE TRY TO BE BETTER AND FIGHT TO CHANGE THEIR SOCIETY NOTHING WILL CHANGE TO A BETTER WORLD .

[@leann7626]

As a Filipino I'm sad for him😔

[@katinafrancis7643]

God bless this boy and what he went through in the craziest courageous and courage what he just said

[@BRYANLEECABATAY]

in the future tayo naman! Tayo ang titingalain! Laban langggg... Please support our PPOP groups, this is our shot

[@alexa_depphil7542]

Cringe po yung Ppop mas maganda pa ang OPM.

[@BRYANLEECABATAY]

@@alexa_depphil7542 huhu maybe PPOP is not your cup of tea po pero its not cringe, lyrics wise, synchronized dance moves, rap verses na may substance, PPOP groups trained so hard for many many years to achieve those, that's why im encouraging people to support kung di nyo po type there's no need to say hateful words po or better i-voice out nyo po yung mga suggestions nyo para makapag improve pa ang ATING ppop groups kasi kung "cringe" "jeje" lamang po ang ating ibabato scroll down nalang di po magiimprove ang ating mako consume na contents kung wala namang punto ang sasabihin lalo tayong bababa... I believe po kasi with filipino talent mapapalaganap pa natin ang ating kultura at pagka pilipino sa mundo, please check out: SB19's MAPA, Bazinga, What? BGYO's Kundiman, When im with you, the baddest BINI's Na Na Na, Kapit Lang, Lagi Those 3 groups are 3 of PPOP's finest, Salamat, reply na may punto para may dagdag sa diskuro, salamat

[@hadotonini1189]

I hope more people will have realistic expectations on their Korean Dreams. I've seen too many people thinking that going to or living in Korea equals to success. Korean entertainment and most of the good things that they display on the media are beauty facades. Be careful. The grass is not always green on the other side. It might be brown, black etc.

[@bethcasnol]

Well done to you for moving on. And also well done with your studies. One needs to accept the realities from expectations. Even big stars experience harassment or exploitation at some point in their live so all the best with your plans in the future...

[@ms.a1405]

It's their season right now that's why some Koreans have this sense of entitlement and even think highly of themselves because of their booming entertainment industry but it's not always the case there will be time that people will lose their interest to their too good to be true image in kpop/kdrama. In Tagalog " nakakasawa din" "malalaos din kayo" 😁

[@ms.a1405]

@ZHUhaha..how sure are you? You should also remember that the only certainty in life is that nothing is certain. Adios! 😊

[@ms.a1405]

@ZHU lemme just remind that there are things you can't control you're not the almighty! There's Alpha & Omega for everything! Appearance do fades, tho technology was able to enhance you but u can't race with time, and note that mental health is as important as ur physical well being. That's why u have high rates of suicides. So which do you prefer?

[@ms.a1405]

@ZHU am not bringing any religion here rather a Reality! So ur response supports my last comment that nothing is certain in this industry so stop saying that ur sure about ur assumptions. Again, THE ONLY CERTAINTY IN LIFE IS THAT NOTHING IS CERTAIN. If confused ,repeat that again. Lemme just correct you that ur'e the one who commented first in my comment, so why bringing up about respecting other people's opinion when u urself made the first move. It's like the taste of ur own medicine. Please do a reflection first bcoz u sounded so unstable right now. 😊

[@ms.a1405]

@ZHU hahaha...I'm obviously talking to a shallow person. Sadly you can't pick up well. 🤣😁 Anyways thank you for the time fella!

[@LP-ct9nk]

I don’t think the kpop industry will enjoy the current level of mainstream attention they’re enjoying now 5-10 years from now, because fads fade and people move on. It also doesn’t help that a microcosm of super fans have pushed this genre to the top in terms of internet culture, so the foundation for the general public to really connect with it organically is shaky and not really there. This will be important, because as more horror stories come out, and the truth about how manufactured the industry is shown to the mainstream it’ll only reinforce peoples negative feelings which encourages people dropping their interest even faster

[@louie24el]

This is why kpop fans need to accept it as soon as possible. The kpop industry is not all unicorns and candies…NOT AT ALL. It’s a toxic industry where people are treated like products. It’s fun, it’s good music, it’s handsome and beautiful people but it’s all business. Yes, long-standing groups have already made a strong relationship and bond with each other but we need to remember that this is still their ‘job’ and their companies will get their money’s worth. These are words from a decade long fan of kpop; along the way you just realize these things and you just get numb about all of it. 😩

[@tommyhwang6603]

That why i never spend my money anymore for kpop :v just watching their mv in youtube just enough for me

[@Theone-bc9up]

After hearing this I cannot imagine how much hardship and discrimination Lisa faced being from south east Asian I'm particularly taking about lisa coz she is my bias but I can feel other non Korean also have faced the same thing but being yg trainee ain't easy that also with so many racist staff which still treat Lisa so poorly and treat other like a princess yet many blinks still pretend blind on how she was n is still treated

[@lovethyneighbor6860]

Coz korea prioritize their people

[@zzzzzzz1751]

To treat another human being in such bad ways is just not right. How can people sleep at night knowing that they made another human’s life miserable.

[@Moodzquito]

The pain in his voice..such a strong guy to endure all of that all by himself ♥️

[@melovetolaugh6417]

This video need to get viral so more and more people know about the real industry they’re supporting. Also this is very real, met a lot of korean and they also have shared similar stories. Even for some korean, living in korea is hell if you’re not attractive or rich. They really took the “first impression matters” to the highest level that most of them are so superficial. Wanna know why so many bullying allegations? Because bullying is very common. Bullying the ugly, the poor, its very common with kids. The parents thought them to not hangout and pick or choose their friends. They also very racist specifically towards black and south east asian.

[@sara.cbc92]

South East Asians (especially Indians) are basically funding Korean racism. The more you support their K-pop k-drama industry, the bigger they get, the more racist they become. It's a vicious cycle. Well, I have no problem not consuming Korean content. I don't like them to begin with.

[@fuckonoff127]

If you watch the stories about how Han Hyun Min grew up, yes, some people can be very racist. At least these days, people like Han Hyun Min have somewhat of a platform now so they can educate people on their sh*tty experiences growing up and even still growing up in society today. I saw this video where people actually started crying when they heard about Han Hyun Min's stories growing up and being discriminated against. He was even stopped at the Korean airport when coming back from France for not looking like the "average" Korean, which is mind fucking boggling to me because he was born in Korea as a Korean citizen and has held Korean citizenship for all of his life. Also, K-Doc is a good source to look if you want to learn about the lives of foreigners/multicultural families there.

[@Andelie96]

Thank you Korea Times for covering dark subjects such as this one. Korea is not paradise. Far from it actually.

[@thetwink5239]

I remember his story. Sa isang blogsite ko pa nabasa. Masakit yung naging experience nya para sa pangarap na maging K-idol. Naalala ko tuloy si C13 ng VXON about sa experience nya sa Korea. Nakakalungkot. Pina swerte na si Kriesha at Chanty now.

[@luznalaza2789]

Mao na diha love pa sa korean

[@sara.cbc92]

Bataan death march was orchestrated by Korean units. As one prisoner noted, "The Korean guards were the most abusive... the Koreans were anxious to get blood on their bayonets; and then they thought they were veterans." Hong Sa-ik was an ethnic Korean who, in WW2, became the overall commander of the Japanese prison camps in the Philippines. He was even held responsible for the atrocities committed in the Japanese prison camps. and he was executed as a war criminal.

[@auroracaniedo9407]

we are nice people...we treat people nicely..proud tobe a filipino...mabuhay

[@gomyang1485]

i remember him being famous amongst filo kpop fans years ago and then suddenly he was gone. it's so saddening to hear about all these unfortunate things happened to him after all these years. i hope you end up standing proud and well again. you chased your dreams and failed but it doesn't mean you'll stay that way. 💗

[@worldofely4907]

If this happened to me I would have packed up my bags and leave. You don't deserve it and we don't deserve it as a Filipino. Other nationalities are exploiting Filipinos even in my current job right now. They pay less compared to other nationalities. How saddening this was, that's why if this happened to anyone reading this don't let them treat you like that and fight back. Find a place where you will be cherished because of your talents and skills.

[@TomTomdog]

Im Korean I am so sorry this things happen to you. Korea has so many bad people you cannot even think of. Dont trust people in korea too easy. I wish your in good place now and be happy with current situations. Philipinos are the friendliest people on earth

[@soytasoy3793]

SoKor think highly of themselves they don't know how to look at their origin before, they have become arrogant

[@NBS-rk8bl]

Don't pretend that your different, you were also like your fellow racists Koreans...

[@6huckk]

when I was a kid one of the place I want to visit is korea.But as I growing older I have realized there's no really a perfect country and its about norms and culture I can't change that.

[@artisanfantasia4663]

This video is so revealing, thankful to Kuya for having the courage to share his story. I am aware of the rampant racism in Korea, but to give you guys hope, I will tell you of my good experience. I was traveling with my family in 2017. All full filipino, my mom, her sister & husband & my 2 cousins, except for me, I'm half filipino half American. We were flying back home to the US from the Philippines but we got delayed for over a day in the Incheon leg of our flight. We were able to visit Seoul for a few hours, and eventually started looking for a restaurant downtown. The 1st place was dark and eerie, no idea why we walked in but the owner shooed us out immediately, saying, "No credit card, no credit card." We found another place. Bright, cherry, a small but warm environment (especially good for Jan. 15th, the coldest day that winter). All I could say in korean at that point was thank you and kimchi, but we were able to gesture to the menu and the lady who helped us was so nice. She was older, and I know that some older people are more accepting of foreigners, but I'm not kidding, she treated us like family. We all ordered dak-dori-tang, but had no idea how to eat it or what to do with all the side dishes. She was the only worker in the restaurant and she took her time to tear apart the chicken in the broth and add in the kimchi & salt for everyone, and for my cousins & I, she even patted us on the head before she left like a doting aunt. Now I know most of the rest of the Korean people we interacted with were in the tourist industry, but I didn't have any upsetting experiences with anyone, through cashiers, street vendors, or airport staff. And yes, we were all tanned Filipinos straight from the heat of Mindanao. I am thankful for the good experience I had in Korea, even though I only got to experience the county outside of the airport for 7 hours. Those few hours were the beginning of my interest in korean culture & media. If I get to visit Seoul again, I would love to find that restaurant again and eat that delicious dori-tang and thank the kind lady for her excellent service and caring actions.

[@opportunityknox8575]

Thank you for speaking out. This bad treatment needs to stop 🛑 keep strong 💪 don’t lose your dreams. 🙏

[@softKactuz]

I can't imagine what Lisa went through and how much it hurt to be where she is. I hope more people can achieve a dream like her but at the sane time I want all this mistreatment to be known and things to change

[@NoChinaforever17]

don't worry about her. she's loving the Korean money

[@Mn-pu7lq]

@@NoChinaforever17 Wherever you work, you have to invest hard to earn money. I like money very much And hundreds of millions of people would love money. No matter what country it comes from, it's money. If that money doesn't hurt anyone And everyone has a dream of becoming something and being able to make money. or you don't have it

[@Zukieee]

Theres another SEA idol from Indonesia, Dita from Secret Number..

[@Klapaocious77]

It’s not about her at this moment.

[@softKactuz]

@@NoChinaforever17 she is loving HER well deserved and worked money. And I hope she makes a lot more!!!

[@niki7159]

I am a fan of Kpop but I often take a break because honestly it triggers my chronic depression and body dysmorphic disorder. Starts questioning myself where are those average people. Each of us have their own experiences when it comes to Kpop, but this is the reality of mine.

[@marlanarsi2590]

I am sorry you had a bad experience 😞 I'm relieved nothing really really bad happened, I hope you still make it

[@thatfangirl1389]

As much as I appreciate Bangtan, it doesn't blind me from the reality of how harsh it is to enter the K-Pop industry.

[@user-cc1es4zj8y]

@ZHU I thought he came after minkyuns elimination? Correct me if I'm wrong

[@shinythemoon]

@@user-cc1es4zj8y yeah , he did, and he suffered so much because of it. I remember him being shunned by the other members at the start.

[@jazzycat2990]

​@@shinythemoon yea he was literally having a bad time and it's not like he expected to be put into the group. he's also has a lot of talent anyways

[@TheMacdmond]

it’s hard especially that koreans are colorist and obsessed with looks. then k-celebs being exposed as former bullies or sex offenders. this is why I only stan and respect one group/7 celebs there.

[@maryjanevillamor5341]

So sad hope you're okay now!Darating ang time n mawawala ang Kpop industry dahil napaka toxic at legit na abusive!Hoping wala ng Pilipino mag try mag auditioned for kpop idol sana mag mulat na sila na hnd tayo patok sa standard nila napaka baba ng tingin ng karamihan satin masasayang lang talent ng mga kababayan natin!Gagamitin lng ang Pilipino para sa views since alam nila na we are very supportive at mahilig sa social media!Kaya tama na stop na support Ppop sariling atin!💙

[@Marsy712]

Pero mga pinoy nababaliw sa kpop..sana nga suportahan nila ang sariling ppop natin at sana may magagaling na producer din sa pinas tulad ng sa kpop..

[@maryjanevillamor5341]

@@Marsy712 Aminin q dati mka Kpop aq first na gusto q 2n1 at Bigbang dahil ky sandara pero ngayon hnd na!Ppop fan na aq dahil namulat naq sa katotohan at kita nman na talagang maraming talented sa atin d lng masyadong napansin pero ngayon nag umpisa na kya Ppop rise talaga!💙

[@Marsy712]

@@maryjanevillamor5341 noon pa man magagaling na talaga pinoy pagdating sa kantahan at sayaw.ang problema sa mga producers natin takot sila gumastos ng malaki..tignan mo ang kpop kahit di sila gaano kagaling kumanta kaya nilang sumikat sa ibat ibang bahagi ng mundo.

[@maryjanevillamor5341]

@@Marsy712 Tama ka at gusto rin kumita agad2x kaya ang kinalabasan bokya!Takot gumastos ng malaki kc ang gusto lng kumita agad!Sana mabago na ang ganung mindset para nman mabigyan ng justice ang mga young artists natin!

[@lovethyneighbor6860]

@@Marsy712 sna kc ang ppop wag gaya gayan yan mali ntn

[@Jaspieces]

When it comes to racism the korean,tai,china,singapore is well known to this kind of issue, its like a normal issue to them like they really embodied hitlers mindset, (but not all the people who lives there are this, it just many of them are this) hope they will stop this discrimination oneday.

[@manilynambalong329]

Thers a lot off pilipino na suportado ang kpop pero sarili natin ppop di nasuportahan kasi ganyan ganon iba dinyo alam gaano kababa ang tingin nga Korea satin kahit nga kapwa nila korean kapag mahirap mababa tingin nila sana magising na tayo at mahalin sarili at palaguin sarili nating ppop at ipakita sana natin sa kanila na kong kaya natin silang suportahan sana mag i rest pa natin ang mga sarili nating talent kaya mas suportado ko ang ppop kisa kpop kasi ang baba ng tingin satin ng korea sana ito sana maging aral satin na tayo baliw sa kakapanood at kasuporta sa kanila sana ilaan nalng nating sa ating mga ppop idol suport our ppoprise

[@ppop_burger]

YASSSSS PPOP RISE!

[@mariaangelesvasquez6316]

Yes , that portraying the second class

[@tyrasmith1643]

Hey Alvin Uy I heard what happened, i am so sorry you had to go through that. I hope your doing well. Jesus loves you so much. he has a plan for you just trust in him.

[@matteoisaac2566]

Sharing my experience here. I'm full blooded Spanish I was an exchange student here in SK 5 years ago studied in Hanlim. During my high school years I met some trainees from JYPE and one of them is from ITZY (Ryujin) my block mates. She told me everything bout the culture, industry and yes being homogeneous of SK. Not all Koreans are rude or assholes. (sorry for my bad english)

[@Wingzero90939]

Yeah it’s really sad man. Crayon pop did a good interview about that with Asian boss. I feel so sorry for her and the other members of the girl group being exploited like that. Not to mention some of the Chinese idols who have talked about their experiences.

[@G.U777]

bro how are jyp trainees treated ??

[@awkwardjw466]

this is why i only enjoy the music and stuffs. some kpop/kdrama fans idea of korea is too unrealistic thats why sometimes it irks me when they defend koreans so much online like they adore everything thats from korea but never really understand the reality behind all that beauty. korea is not that perfect place you think it is.

[@jennypai1776]

this will keep on happening as long as kpop fans give their money to these Korean companies

[@mikaelahernaez3830]

I was thinking if I should continue this kind of dream . But yeah I think it depends on the mindset of the person who discriminate if they accept u or not . The problem is the mindset.

[@joren3628]

Not just the mindset but also their society.

[@AsianSP]

@@joren3628 if your not slim,tall,white and pretty with good english accent.. you better backout, they’re the racist of all racist people.. more than half of their people are racist.. verbally and physically they’ll attack you..even to minors.. they did that..

[@noonalay7092]

wala talagang fairytales sa totoong buhay🥺god bless you and take care💜🙏🏻

[@cynthianimer5291]

DARK SIDE OF KPOP REAL EXPERIENCE USE IT AS YOUR WEAPON IN LIFE TO GO ON AND LEAVE MORE HAPPY AND MEANINGFUL

[@scarletoverkill314]

If aspiring artists gets support from their own country, they don't have to go through that situation. Lucky are the ppop artists today, they're now being recognized.

[@javathechip]

he's my schoolmate here in canada, id say he's doing better.

[@shaolinsoccer7988]

BRAVO 👏👏👏👏 QUEL COURAGE AS-TU EU DE PARLER DE CELA DEVANT NOUS , NE BAISSE PAS LES BRAS SI LA DANSE ET LE CHANT EST VRAIMENT TA PASSION CONTINUE IL A BEAUCOUP D'INDUSTRIE DE LA MUSIQUE DANS LE MONDE. Y COMPRIS AU PHILIPPINES , CONTINU , AIE CONFIANCE EN TOI ,. FROM FRANCE 🇫🇷 🌹💋

[@lucylee3743]

What’s kills u makes u stronger ~ such an inspiration! GBU + stay strong

[@anotherferrigho]

Good for you pal, I hope God give you more in Canada, bless you and your future!

[@jero4321]

I hope they stop discriminating against Korean and international trainees. Personally, I'm taking dance workshops and voice lessons here in the Philippines in order to be able to become a trainee in Korea, and my dream is to somehow debut in Korea as an Idol, but after hearing this story, I think I'll give up my dream of becoming an Idol in Korea and instead focus on my studies, or maybe just stay here in the Philippines and train to be able to debut here as well, but the problem here in the Philippines is that P-Pop isn't really big here in PH. A lot pf people still prefer K-Pop done P-Pop. I feel sorry for Alvin Uy since he has squandered a lot of time, money, and other possibilities only to be able to make his debut in Korea, but I believe that is simply the way society is, and discrimination still exists everywhere. :( I hope that discrimination would no longer exist anywhere in the world, not just in Korea but also in other countries.

[@lecyber-purgatoire9803]

Seriously don't go there. Especially for that. You from Philippines, it will be a nigthmare. maybe go for holiday if you really want, you won't experience the darkside of this country (And im not even sure about that, korean man can be openly racist toward south asian! and also japanese!) Don't fall into the trap of "nice oppa Kpop", and koreaboos things, dont! This is all fake and worse! You enjoy Korea only if you are rich, or white. it's the truth, they may have tecnology but their mind is stuck in 1950, they just se dark skinned peopel as subhumans... Don't spend money for them. I think it will take them around 20 to 30 years to open their mind and live in the 21th century and see everyone as human being! For now yo uare not welcomed there if you are dark skinned. Stop spending your money for them, respect yourself!!

[@jero4321]

@@lecyber-purgatoire9803Though I am tall and have a nice height, I also have pale skin. In fact, I've already gotten emails from Korean agencies asking me and my workshop colleagues to train for them, but we haven't accepted them yet because the majority of them aren't that well-known. Instead, we're still waiting for the right opportunity, honing our skills here first, and looking forward to being accepted as trainees by a fairly reputable agency. If my appearance worries you, know that I actually looks like a Kpop idol thanks to my light skin, small face, and good height, possibly as a result of my Chinese ancestor.

[@lecyber-purgatoire9803]

@@jero4321 Well i hope it work for you, but again you are filipino, once they know where you from its done. Chinese and Japanese have pale skin and i saw stronger racism against them... Even all white are not all respected the same: russians or east european, they have blond hair blue eyes, but because there country is considered as "third world country" they are technically on the same level than blacks. lol You surely gonna be friends with foreigners there so you will never be alone, You may gonna meet good korean people, but you definitly gonna meet racist, so be ready! I lived japan 4years, so i though i was ready for korea. how wrong i was! haha just 2 years and i got depressed and almost suicidal... Anyway, good luck for your project there! sincerely wish you success in life! Be strong! 🙂

[@Wingzero90939]

Honestly I think you should look up good companies, look up every k-pop star that you like some of them have even started their own agencies and throw your hat in the ring you may get lucky. Don’t you sign up with a random one. Just like if you were going to hire a coach to teach you something like a sport if you had the choice between a former Olympian/Olympic coach and a fat dude in a mall. You’re not gonna choose the guy in the mall. You might even want to see if any of the smaller but legitimate agencies would be willing to take you on like dreamcatcher’s agency or Chungha’s... they do have audition links on both of those companies so you might get lucky.

[@TheMacdmond]

there are hundreds of idol groups debuting in korea every year and you’ll only hear a very few of those groups. before you even discovered that a certain group exists, they already disbanded and being drowned in debt. you can still have a career in ph but it would be just as hard. if you frequent ph bars, there are so many great singers/vocalists and you would wonder why they aren’t recording artists. what I’m saying is that fame happens to only to few people but you can still pursue your dream. still better if you do it in ph, your own country.

[@Khembit]

welcome to Canada bro! heal first and dont dont drop your dream

[@NBS-rk8bl]

There was also a lot of racists in Canada

[@Nveevocals]

This is so messed up! Try and hire a lawyer to be present with you before signing any any contract. Especially if you're a foreigner living in another country.

[@MV-zk8nq]

How can you prosper in a country that pulls down there own Korean Celebrities,, kudos to this Filipino for having a brave heart to speak about his trauma.

[@NJ-wg8gm]

Good for you that you got out of that place. Stay strong and keep striving forward. 💝

[@jaygragz]

I can appreciate their music, food and dramas but beyond that it's a no for me especially their people. Not all but most of them are xenophobic.

[@Lunaxklk]

I only like the food now. Wouldn't go to Korea to spend my money on a racist country.

[@RayMak]

It's really not easy...

[@grzegorzbrzeczyszczykiewic4223]

God,, you again. You're everywhere

[@fatou0g]

I’m not surprised. There’s so much colorism in k-pop, and the international fans are so much worse. I hope his story is heard and spreads.

[@simply_geri]

this video struck me. my heart goes for people that only want to do amazing things but the people around them destroys them. I'm glad he was able to push trough, call his family & accepted their help. This lad has a loving family, never let go of that! 🤧

[@ayu6718]

Actually i has PTSD as well. This is because my bad experience in the past. And it's really hard to full recovery we need a whole year for treatment. And yeah i think the solutions is we just need to be happy and avoid a toxic people that make worst to us. Fighting

[@eyalee896]

omg the last time i saw Alvin, he's still in a good state and enjoys Korea and korean related stuffs. this is so sad.