I spent a day with EX K-POP IDOLS

[@AnthonyPadilla]

come back next week for our first direct sequel, *I spent a day with VIRAL MEME STARS 2* UNCENSORED ON SPOTIFY ▸ open.spotify.com/show/5aOLuPenneHbhLh05fmkeu UNCENSORED ON APPLE ▸ podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-spent-a-day-with/id1550213250

[@user-ex5vj1vq6k]

Hi

[@milena7419]

First

[@eggsoup28]

hey i hope people are telling you that you do a great job every upload!!

[@Lalalala0082]

YESSS

[@CryptecPell]

Oh yeah I wanna see that sequel

[@bellagoth4291]

Props to Anthony for getting actual ex Kpop Idols and not people who were trainees for like 2 seconds.

[@AllegedlyAisha]

Also artists of different popularities and length , I like that we can see the perspective of members of really popular groups and the not so popular ones

[@scarship8250]

@@AllegedlyAisha Yeah, Bekah who was from After School definitely was the most famous, then Jeongmin and then soobin and i love how we can see that

[@tashyaranadipura4850]

@@scarship8250 boyfriend was really famous back then, the fandom is pretty big tho

[@jk4115]

true! I always see irrelevant kartists who've never been heard of always speaking about the kpop experience on behalf of the rest of the industry so it really makes whatever happens sound less plausible

[@scarship8250]

@@tashyaranadipura4850 Yeah! I've met boyfriend and they were pretty famous back then but i think After School was waaay famous. They were at the top with Girls Generation

[@58901Grappling]

"I have no bitter feelings." Meanwhile, the other person: "So I filed a lawsuit."

[@joshina4497]

That's how different these Entertainment companies are 🤣 some actually care for their idols and some think that they don't have to treat them well as long as they make money. Ofc all of them care about money (duh, it's a business), but they are really divided in how they treat trainees, idols and the staff.

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON KING

[@stacie1595]

Yeah I think it's important to highlight that not all idols experience the same thing. I'm glad boyfriend stayed on good terms till the end and I'm also sad that some idols have to go through long legal battles.

[@golbinnom]

each company is different so they dont all have the same exact experience

[@calhuh1232]

LMAO

[@itseva3260]

I don’t think people really realise how big After School was. When Bekah left AS we were really devastated. A lot of members changed in the group and they were all really talented but for me no one could bring the colours she did. I was so happy when they reunited and performed Bang together. I’m so happy Bekah is doing what she wants now. She looks genuinely happy. Love you, Bekah!

[@no1GIRluvr]

after school is such an iconic group

[@cladimaribarra2279]

Back in the day, Pledis was not recognized by name. Ppl were like: Pledis???? And they had to add "We're the company where Afterschool is" "We manage Afterschool" to people recognize them. They were really called "AS' company". And i think that says a lot about how big they werw

[@soutsours]

Yes, they are recognizable in sk. They might be not have many award like snsd but they indeed famous

[@alexanderdiazsanchez1579]

Are they the group that had a car accident and some members died? Or am I misunderstanding?

[@itseva3260]

@@alexanderdiazsanchez1579 Nope, that’s Ladies Code.

[@streammonocowards836]

The way you got an After School member, Boyfriend member, and a Kpop Star contestant is INSANE! Those are such staples in "older" kpop

[@theokguy_4]

For real i was like ????? These people were BIG big back then, and now exposing the industry

[@UwU-lm9or]

HONESTLY THOUGH my mom would of been so surprised to see this cause god damn I remember the songs and their group but she knew then more but Jesus Christ I'm so glad he brought the more older kpop stars 😩 I'm kinda getting nostalgic ngl

[@dwisatriyaprajna6436]

Imagine if he got one of the T-ara idol 😬

[@streammonocowards836]

@@UwU-lm9or yes yes, so much nostalgia!! my childhood was growing up to late 2nd gen and early 3rd gen kpop so this was really nostalgic but bittersweet to watch :') some parts of the kpop industry has definitely improved in terms of the problems they were talking about, but many parts of the industry and companies still take advantage of their idols :/ i understand why they all left!!

[@streammonocowards836]

@@dwisatriyaprajna6436 that would have been INSANE. T-Ara and AOA 🧍‍♀️

[@biancaplanka]

i feel so bad for kpop members because of how abusive the industry is

[@vincevvn]

Oh my god what a horrible thing they are forced in to. So sad they literally had no other choice…

[@sayunara]

@@vincevvn people make bad decisions sometimes and thats not their fault.

[@AncientFx]

@@FukaiKokoro yep kpop fans are generally toxic

[@blue1584]

@@vincevvn Quit being sarcastic. Didn’t you hear the part where she said her contract wasn’t even in her native language? How is she supposed to make an informed decision if she can’t even understand what she’s being pressured into signing? Many are manipulated into signing those contracts. A lot of idols and trainees are literally only kids/teens when they sign... most don’t know what they’re getting themselves into or think “it probably won’t be that bad”

[@xoluciaxo_3721]

to be fair these people are talking about their experiences from 10+ years ago and its definitely not like this anymore. Sure, there are still shitty companies out there but if it was still all like that, kpop never would've gotten this popular. And dont get me started on the american music industry💀 that was 100% a shitshow 10 years ago too

[@annajonatic7155]

boyfriend as a group is a rare thing to find, these men where together for eight years as a group, when disbanding time came they still supported each other in their individual activities and then decided they want to continue making music together there's no contract dictating things this time around, just them and their bond probably not the right space to talk about this but it makes me emotional seeing him promoting bf instead of himself

[@nicolebloopbloop3215]

I loved them so much because of that. You could tell they really cared about each other. I always wanted to meet them and go to their concerts :/ they're just amazing, I still stan

[@Paradoxiart_]

And now they're rebranding and getting back together as a group away from a big ent. group!

[@djiedragon]

@@Paradoxiart_ what company ?

[@Paradoxiart_]

@@djiedragon they're now under cross phase ent :)

[@djiedragon]

@@Paradoxiart_ thank you

[@usedtobemyself]

I feel like CL might be open for an interview like this tbh, would love to hear her perspective

[@cybergalacticnova]

And the rest of 2ne1! They all moved on to be solo artists, I think Bom Park is on her way to recovery and Sandara refused to associate herself with YG.

[@alexag.5008]

YES I AGREE

[@lexlovesblondsz]

@@cybergalacticnova yes!!!!

[@JokerCrowe]

Agreed! Also maybe Sera from 9Muses would be interested in talking more about it? She has her own youtube channel now, and has reacted to her old videos. I've understood that she worked for one of the worst companies, so maybe she doesn't want to bring that up again, but I think she would have a lot of interesting insight if she agreed to an interview.

[@halimah4688]

and hyuna too! i wanna hear about her experience

[@soobeanie]

Thanks for having me on your channel to share my experience ✨🙏

[@h777lol]

first

[@yueflower]

Thank you for your hard work!

[@oliverhughes610]

Lessgo Tina! Get that exposure queen

[@cherylvoss9735]

You're sooo pretty 😍

[@yeetou7460]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us! Means a lot!

[@xmhcix5310]

"we're products of the company" queen said what we all were thinking. still rings true in 2021

[@alaaosman6447]

2022 definitely still true but I'm a happy there at least 3 companies don't treat artists like that

[@lanfanslostarm9784]

it's always been true and always will be. that's the whole point of the idol industry. I don't think they should be mistreated, but idols are literally just marketing strategies for the company. they know they're a product to be judged in technical terms. they're human and deserve to be treated right, but in the industry that's their label.

[@cinnarapmon]

@@alaaosman6447 wait which 3 companies is that? i know pnation is really great as well as bighit, but which is the 3rd?

[@alaaosman6447]

@@cinnarapmon kQ entertainment

[@darsterz]

kq is debatable but i agree there's definitely worse companies out there

[@anttoast]

kpop idols are genuinely so talented but have to go through so much, its honestly sickening to see how mistreated they are.

[@DyslexicMitochondria]

Ikrrr

[@tomhappening]

​@@DyslexicMitochondria ur username made me click on ur profile. Ur channeI is a hidden gem bro

[@Cashews_world]

love the pfp

[@acecarpenter502]

Sometimes?

[@anttoast]

@@acecarpenter502 i say sometimes a lot, thats my bad. its just sickening to see in general.

[@scarsound]

I love the fact that you got a translator so that Jeongmin could speak comfortably! I was honestly thinking that you would probably do something like that - and I wasn't wrong! Love how understanding and accommodating you are, Anthony! Love your stuff!

[@letizialorusso1950]

Ikr!

[@s.l.c.543]

@Natalia Antony litteraly responded to you giving an explanation about the credit and the translators wishes not to be credited on screen, you daft bint. You work in TAV ? Awesome now learn to respect the wishes of your fellow TAV workers. Edit : or delete your comment that works too

[@smason9157]

@@atlessia274 for ppl who can't read fast or have visual impairment is my guess

[@diamondprincxss]

@@atlessia274 I mean continuously pausing a video just to read subtitles can not only be annoying but take so much time. This video is 26 minutes long and if someone is dyslexic or has a visual impairment where they have to stop and make out the words on the screen it could take like 36 minutes to finish the video, that’s ten extra minutes the could have saved with a voice over. Or what if they’re listening to it while doing something else? Their attention would have to completely focus on the video and that’s even more time wasted

[@crazyformyseIf]

@@atlessia274 a vision impaired person couldn’t read those most likely z

[@thetalart]

Omg Jeongmin from boyfriend!? Bruhh im crying. I miss Boyfriend 😭 such a good group

[@cheefqueef9732]

NO FR

[@sophiawahdan]

SAME

[@karaaudino3025]

I honestly couldn't remember boyfriend at all until they showed little clips from their MVs, then it all came back to me hahaha

[@HoangLan96]

@@karaaudino3025 same, I was like: oh shit what am I doing, he was my bias back then. I didn't realise at first

[@setalitea]

Finding Talart in kpop related videos-🥺😂

[@CopperWaspp]

After School and Boyfriend? Holy hell, the nostalgia. Jeongmin's my bias in Boyfriend! It's so important to share these stories. They might be from a previous generation, but we can only appreciate the increasing autonomy idols are starting to have if we can assess what went wrong before.

[@anjonneldelacruz8458]

earthtoshea yep..that’s Boyfriend

[@vereli]

@earthtoshea ayo? same green pfp?

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON THE KING

[@viancejumaday1215]

Mine was minwoo

[@rndm1409]

@@viancejumaday1215 omgg we have the same bias

[@Lunaiscutecat]

I feel like everyone wants to be a kpop idol but don't consider the cons

[@alixnight5318]

A lot of people think about the cons. It’s just hard when you’re so young and it’s your dream

[@sawalnuwa5365]

High risk high reward. Thats normal

[@Lunaiscutecat]

@@alixnight5318 that's true

[@sm0rie]

I feel that but I honestly would like to try it out for a month, not to make light of the bad things they go through but as a learning experience. I agree so many ppl want it but don't realize how hard it is to actually achieve. I find reality experience shows interesting when they get a bunch of ppl together from different backgrounds to make a song and be idols for a short while.

[@Im_Charizzma_boss_baby_Ricky]

I try to but my mind wants to block it out

[@marianemarangao2840]

I got teary eyed when all of them talked about how the positive side were the fans. They go through so much for us...

[@angelf722]

I don't think they do it for us, us the fans give them energy but at the end of the day they recieve comfort from the outcome of their jobs, it's their job at the end of the day since they signed a contract they have no other choice

[@marianemarangao2840]

@@angelf722 I know it is a job, but the fans are a source of strenght for many of them and they made it pretty clear in the video. Have you ever heard of the "do it for her" from simpsons? It's kinda that vibe.

[@Musubee]

Fans can be so toxic and petty too

[@Julia_Lopez]

yh true but it also feels like it’s part of those companies’ manipulation, the way they market idols to make fans feel the closest they can to them, it’s scary how good they’re at it and how easily people fall for it too (especially younger fans). from personal experience I’ve seen friends develop serious attachment issues which in some way explains the dating bans and all. at first I was told korea was conservative in that way so it was seen as a bad example for younger people now it just feels like it’s more a financial risk for companies seeing how some fans behave … same with the unrealistic beauty standards, they’re there bc a specific type of audience wants them there I’ve seen fans refuse to support idols for gaining weight …. idk fans definitely have lots of power over some companies’ not so good behaviour 🥴

[@bajabl]

Stop supporting this toxic industry. Bunch of enablers.

[@NikkiNicolePop]

I loved After School & Boyfriend. You never realize how much work is put into your favorite groups and how hard the members work. They make it look so effortless, but they go through so much to just to get where they are. I hope they are much happier & less stressed after exiting the industry. Too much pressure is put on idols to be perfect and it’s awful. And like Christine was saying, a lot of women experience terrible period cramps and for some it can be debilitating. A lot of idols take breaks because of exhaustion and people wonder why….

[@AxxLAfriku]

IT is weird indeed. Everywhere I comment, people tell me how much they love me and my content. Sometimes IT is annoying. But right now, IT would be okay. So say something nice about my content, dear mer

[@user-ks5ef2su9i]

@@AxxLAfriku No. Seriously dude, this is such an interesting video and you are just promoting your own channel. Like there’s nothing wrong with that, but not on a video which deals with some really serious topics

[@notstoday465]

Yass finally another boyfriend's fans, i rarely find someone who even know boyfriend. I really love boyfriend debut era and still love the song boyfriend.

[@Kpopfansam]

A lot of people don't know them

[@cuteloops65]

@@notstoday465 riiiight, even in their prime I never met anyone who knew them

[@XZXZ-s1d]

As a Kpop fan of 10 years, I'm surprised that the topic of variety shows and sasaeng fans aren't talked about. We had sasaeng fans (obsessive fans) go to the same planes with the idols, put period blood outside of the door of dorms, an idol almost died because a drink given by a 'fan' had glue and an idol had death threats for announcing that she's dating someone (another idol)*. *Kan Miyoun Variety shows on the other hand, i want to know truly how the process is, how their experiences were. If there is a 2.0 version of this, I would love to watch it. Good Job Anthony, It's nice to see Bekah, Jongmin and Soobin again.

[@AnthonyPadilla]

thank you! i’ll definitely consider going deeper with a sequel

[@thespankmyfrank]

Pretty sure Christina went into variety shows at one point, she at least talked about live music shows a lot. Her videos are great for the behind the scenes of kpop!

[@Bii940]

But the thing is that, obsessed fans is not a kpop thing, it litteraly happens with many others celebrities out their

[@gigabaiit]

@@Bii940 yes ofc it happens to almost any famous person, but that doesn't mean it's not important to point out how normalized it is in the kpop world, especially bc idols aren't allowed to talk about it

[@Bii940]

@@gigabaiit i dont see where it is normalize to be honest, can you tell me who normalize thoses kind of stuff ?

[@berdeng]

Jeongmin seems to have a more positive experience compared to Bekah and Christine. I wonder if the difference between the treatment of boy groups vs girl groups play a part in these idols' experiences; if gender inequality affects the industry or if it's truly just the company's doing

[@miss_jess]

I think it definitely does, as evidenced by the longevity of boy groups vs girl groups. Even popular girl groups will break up or go on hiatus rather than renew their contracts. Women in kpop face extra pressure e.g. higher emphasis on their appearance (esp weight), maintaining a 'pure' image (incl not dating, or receiving extreme scrutiny if they do date), dancing in high heels etc. Not to mention the inability to start a family while in an active idol group - it's possible for men, but not women.

[@coolgirl312]

I think the other factor is that Jeongmin was under Starship Entertainment, which is a considerably larger and more well off company compared to Pledis, who struggled financially especially nearing the tail end of when Afterschool was active and SY6 Entertainment who managed Blady seems to be an unknown company. Granted Starship wasn't as big during Boyfriend's debut but grew a lot during Boyfriend's career.

[@rubyjane9119]

It definitely does. The industry is way more harsh and cruel to female idols

[@widdlebrizzle6342]

the main key is the company

[@-amel-9896]

i'd say it's a big factor but not just this, companies themselves are the biggest factor of different treatments. We can clearly tell even in the idol industry that there's idols who are treated more like products and other treated more like artists, others in the middle. Starship maybe just treated their idols better than Pledis. And I'm not denying how gender roles play here, them being women definitely made it a worse experience, but it's not the biggest factor. We should compare experiences of ex-male and ex-female idols who were under the same company and see how the contracts differs and how their lives differs.

[@coffeinpuppy8574]

they are barely treated like humans. crazy how it's expected of them to always work and be perfect like machines

[@blue1584]

Yeah... they are treated like products, not like people. It’s so messed up

[@AncientFx]

sucks to be them

[@flowersun7879]

It wouldn't be so bad if after all the grueling training they would at least be paid well, but many of them make no money even after years of work.

[@mlpmlpmlpmlp1]

@@flowersun7879 majority of groups don't get paid until half of their career, even then, some dont even get paid what they deserve

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON G DRAGON THE KING

[@beidoumimujer7783]

I remember Holland, who's an openly gay kpop idol, got rejected by ALL the companies he auditioned for, he also mentioned that ALLOT of kpop idols have and still call him slurs, very embarrasing really, kpop companies delete yourself challenge

[@vampiress13ouran]

I think he's been accepted a little bit now by his agency. I follow him on Twitter and Instagram, and he seems really happy. ^^

[@midnightblue1293]

@@vampiress13ouran I don’t think he’s under an agency, he’s an independent artist. in 2020 he said he isn’t under one. Maybe it’s changed since then.

[@vampiress13ouran]

@@midnightblue1293 oh. Maybe. I dunno. He seems happy though.

[@jaithon7254]

Holland deserves better and I'm glad he's getting recognition from the fans in the LGBTQ+ community now. Especially from shawols! They're so supportive!

[@lia5575]

I mean there's also Amber who is actually loved by almost everyone in kpop and that bald comedian(I forgot his name)

[@angelf722]

The hip pad thing she said really made me glad. It irks me how less its talked about, it's shaping an unhealthy beauty standard and picturing S line curves for every idol in fan's eyes who eat it up

[@sarroumarbeu6810]

It's like ppl forget that clothes/contraptions are supposed to give you your desired shape like in the olden days (big skirts and ruffled blouses as underwear)...now ppl just want artists to actually look like the unrealistic expectations... they're humans they obviously can't fit imaginary boxes 💀💀

[@L1z3.04]

This is honestly so important.. as a long term kpop fan I know how horrible the industry is.. glad these people can share their stories with you!! Edit: OH MY GOODNESS Jeongmin??! I love him so much and boyfriend... I love them so much and am glad he's sharing is story

[@shegg2696]

You really just commented before watching the video

[@Rat0713]

Kpop fan HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[@jfarmerswatermelon6061]

@@Rat0713 What are you a middle schooler? O.o

[@daisilyy]

@@Rat0713 literally 9 years old. Sad.

[@daisilyy]

Same. People laugh at kpop without knowing the behind the scenes of it. As a kpop fan I've stopped supporting companies who have mistreated their idols or even idols who turned out to be horrible people (remember that you don't know your faves and they're not saints).

[@shouldbewritig]

“I was in boyfriend and wanted to be boyfriend” that was adorable. This industry though… I didn’t even know about vitamin c shots. As an Asian woman in an entirely white community I used to look up ways to pale out all the time and yet I never heard of those but it sounds like… a bad idea?

[@viancejumaday1215]

Hahaha jeongmin being jeongmin

[@shelmaphilo2613]

@Linny it's because i most country whitening products are banned because it could cause health issue...

[@ClaireEmilia]

Well, I can tell you that Vitamin C shots don't do anything when injected into the bloodstream. If you use in directly on your skin it's great

[@Ratman.Not.Batman]

totally unrelated to the comment but are you my long lost twin

[@DTLamia]

Imagine if she got into an accident, needed a blood tranfusion to save her life and the paramedics are like "oh yeah she's in Blady let's give her B"

[@stealthis]

LMAO! The scandal! The shock! The betrayal! The acute immune hemolytic reaction!

[@WintechX]

Stupid comment. Thats like saying, oh her name is Aurora? Lets give her A blood! Its such a fucking stupid comment and statement with absolutely zero sense.

[@youtuber2928]

Medical staff are not that stupid.

[@MariaD.L.]

Hahahaha a funny thought but realistically it would not happen since you can die from a wrong blood transfusion so they would check it first

[@dearhyeri]

@@youtuber2928 a joke

[@deffowhy]

“I spent a day with ex smosh member!” Talks to himself (edit: Uhm this is an awful lot of likes. Thank you so much. Truly)

[@Honkaidojo]

I would definitely watch that.

[@deffowhy]

@@Honkaidojo I would too

[@laelaisasome]

I would watch that lmao

[@AWKWARDCONFIDENCE]

And ian

[@cryinglaughingemoji1741]

I'd like to see him with ian on that lmao

[@MarianMathes03]

It's scary how this industry is basically about manufacturing people to fit a mold.

[@Badbufon]

and the consumers buying that stuff and defending it

[@sennap7109]

"We live in a society" not as a joke but literally it's so fucked up

[@hobbitgirl123]

kinda like professional sports teams

[@iduli02]

some of the industry* There are a LOT of exceptions, biggest and most glaring one being BTS.

[@purplenutria1351]

but stans support that, even with their protest or saying they dont like it, they keep buying the products, give them reproductions, spam their themes, stop being a stan, just be a normal fan and never support abusive companys

[@azula160]

hearing her say that idols are like “products” is so heartbreaking. the fact that they have to alter their lives to the likings of not the company but the fans? honestly i really hope that the future changes for kpop idols and they can have more freedom to be humans

[@VMYeahVN]

I would be interested to hear how current Idols feel (we won't know though cause they're all still on contract). But these Idols were in groups 10ish years ago when things were a lot worse. The contracts got somewhat better after the TVXQ group lawsuit against their label. So i'd be curious what progress has been made since then and since the ex-Idols in this video were in their groups.

[@aternaljoy7649]

They have freedom now. They choose to take an elevator to fame, that comes with consequences.

[@ssharkbait]

@@aternaljoy7649 a lot of them get into the business when they’re literally children. I’ve seen so many idols performing while sick or injured even recently. It’s definitely still shady and has room for improvement. Wanting to be a performer shouldn’t come at a ridiculous cost to your health and well-being, regardless of how much you want it.

[@zwein1817]

That's already inherent to the concept of an "idol" to some degree. It's been like this for ages. If you truly wished for the wellbeing of idols, you'd wish for idols and idol culture to be no more to begin with

[@aternaljoy7649]

@@ssharkbait As I said, it doesn't. There are lots of routes to fame. Idols function on an elevator, a guarantee of some success so long as you suffer through it. That's unique in the entire world. It's 100% a choice. Nothing is stopping them from taking the more risky route to fame that everyone else in the world has to use.

[@beahartemisia5249]

I'm so glad that Bekah has found herself after leaving After School. She was amazing as an idol, but being free to decide things for yourself is priceless.

[@shewstea42]

so many cis men would just not believe people talking about their period pains, they would tell them they’re overreacting and that its not that bad etc. but you can clearly tell that Anthony never question people going through things he has never experienced. as with everything else; he always knows to listen and to be open-minded, it is so refreshing to see. it would be so nice if more cis men were like this, so that people could talk about their struggles without being invalidated, made fun of or dismissed.

[@cojinmango]

I don't think it's about believing or not. As it was answered, so many kpop female idols go through the same pain, but they keep it to themselves. I don't agree with it though, but it's the usual comparison manipulation. I hope this changes of course.

[@ykshay]

I dont think thats true at all, most ppl have a mother at least so they should know about it

[@deniseschilling9522]

I think you just have shitty men in your life lmao

[@shewstea42]

@@deniseschilling9522 yeah you’re right, the problem is that there’s far too many people that deal w that having mostly shitty men in their lives

[@deniseschilling9522]

@@shewstea42 There's just shitty people everywhere

[@kc-pj8ne]

When Anthony asked them to play their music they looked so happy and excited to show their work you can tell they're passionate about what they do

[@Gythsysgyhe]

You should interview Kim Samuel his whole story is crazy. His dad was murdered the company he was in taking advantage of him. Him being a really young trainee.

[@3spi227]

His father’s death might be a bit fresh still but I would love to see this! Samuel is so underrated and talented, he can act, dance and sing really well.

[@bo-ml2rc]

@@3spi227 wait his dad got murdered??

[@3spi227]

@@bo-ml2rc Yeah:(

[@mntj5274]

You mean Kim Samuel the one who is half korean/Hispanic..that Kim Samuel?

[@shadowblade4142]

@@mntj5274 yea....... which other kim Samuel u know?

[@tatiana9603]

I don’t think I could ever wrap my head around the fact that some fans won’t accept an idol bc they’re dating. Like what?! Some people are delusional. That’s just weird behavior. People should be allowed to be in relationships, including idols. They already live such complicated lives, they should be allowed to at least have ONE thing.

[@Nashifruit]

The Good news is that Korean artists are starting not to care anymore. more are dating and getting married even though fans cry about it like Dawn and Hyuna got married, Bobby from ikon is married and has a son, and Even BTS members like V are planning on dating/getting married and stated he doesn't care what the fans think and RM admits he's not a virgin.

[@wocean6994]

The thing is the majority do not care at all so it’s the companies that have to make a change and allow it so ALL fans can accept it also and that mindset can die off but companies are so dumb

[@ww7271]

BTS actually dot have a dating ban, a lot of kpop idols dont have a dating ban. The thing with Dawn And Hyuna was a choice of their shitty company Cube

[@ssharkbait]

Yeah it’s pretty crazy. But I definitely think the companies feed into that. I think it’s pretty creepy how idols are forced to be so flirty and talk about how much they love their fans. It makes my skin crawl when idols say things like “Did you eat today” in a sexy voice. I think idols acting that way really confuses fans and causes parasocial and obsessive tendencies. So when they’re favorite idol who they convinced is basically in love with them starts dating they lose it. Fans think they own idols and don’t like when their idea of a perfect idol is challenged in anyway.

[@kate-ec4pj]

@@ssharkbaitwhen do they say stuff like that? i don’t know much about kpop but i’ve never heard that since i only ever hear the music

[@angelf722]

I love how she said secretly dating exists, just a reality check for delusional fans. Sadly dating is never going to be normally/publically accepted with idols not unless they leave, retire or change careers.

[@juliee593]

It is accepted with some older idols with an older less obsessive fanbase, like when Changmin from TVXQ got married everyone was just happy for him. And when Chen from Exo got married people were in majority ok with it.

[@JLynnEchelon]

Of course it does. They're a bunch of beautiful people in close proximity all the time. It's insane to think they're all a bunch of virgins.

[@TheMegerz]

dudes hyuna and dawn literally got kicked out of cube because their relationship was discovered. it's fucking crazy

[@Em-ky4re]

Yeah it sucked but they did get taken in by Pnation, so at least there are some good companies out there

[@TheMegerz]

@@Em-ky4re Pay’s been in the game for so long so he gets it

[@MiszzMiszz]

and they seem to be still very in love even though so many years past. when i think about how many true loves were crushed for money it breaks my heart.

[@jonghosvocalcord]

WAIT THEY GOT KICKED OUT?????

[@TheMegerz]

@@jonghosvocalcord yeah they got such negative backlash from people finding out about them being together. Cube said goodbye and then PSY signed them to his company

[@maritmeow]

I feel like dating is getting more and more accepted and that’s a good thing (probably mostly for already established successful idols though). Maybe you can try getting in contact with Hyuna and Dawn at PNation. I feel like that company is very open and might be okay with an interview. They were let go by their companies at the time for dating. (I don’t think they can talk a lot about that topic but they’re still very interesting)

[@aquaaria3489]

I personally don’t think it’s really getting accepted… Rookie idols will hardly date publicly even to this date, and the only idols who have that kind of privilege are senior idols that are way too popular and successful to be taken down by a bunch of jealous fans (ex. Heechul and Momo, Joy and Crush, Jennie and Kai/Gdragon, etc.). I believe that the industry has improved only if I see a Rookie idol that has been on the Koop industry for less than 3 years be comfortable about telling the fans that they’re dating (I believe that’ll never happen tbh).

[@ghofranelaouar1164]

@@aquaaria3489 exactly.. I don't feel like it is accepted.. just imagine a BTS member dating and you'll see the amount of craziness

[@leehannuel]

@@egglololol crush and joy! and yeah tbh most people and gp (general public) respected that she was dating, no uproar or anything ^^

[@sleepyhead0007]

@@ghofranelaouar1164 indeed those delulu fans will go crazy, I just want all BTS members to reveal their relationships if they're in a relationship bcz those delulu n obsessive fans will atleast leave the name "army" for god's sake. The fandom will be clear from dirts atleast that's what I expect.. I just want them to get married n have a nice bigars family lol it'd be so fun to see them being happy with their love of the life!! But gotta say those 7 ppl might be lucky ppl💜 I hope they all live happily after all these hardships they faced these years🤧.

[@louise3630]

They weren't let go, they decided to quit

[@dreamywhales]

Stanning a group with a decent company is like finding a hidden gem. It sounds like the bare minimum but if an idol eats well, gets breaks, sleep, and creative control, it feels very reassuring. With most groups and idols there's always the worry in the back of your mind over their treatment from their company. One example of a decent company is HFE. There's only a handful of others I can think of.

[@malu9690]

KQ as well!

[@ducklingscap897]

Yeah at this point I sometimes feel like I'm standing a company for treating their idols as humans 😭

[@lillyborgmann3307]

also pnation. only company I really feel comfortable with.

[@Chuuckles]

@@lillyborgmann3307 yeah but the music there is shit

[@VMYeahVN]

@@lillyborgmann3307 Yeah i feel like at P-Nation, you would still work hard obviously, but the contract/pay structure/and level of creative control the artists get is probably very fair.

[@jamieortiz1198]

I wish Ryu Sera was part of this episode. She’d have a lot more insight on the dark side of Koop industry

[@pixelatedcorpse]

definitely! i’d love to see a follow up to this video where he interviews sera, i really feel her insight is something that should be shared with a larger audience like anthony’s

[@OGAngie]

I actually clicked specifically to see if Ryu Sera was on this

[@toastnuances]

Momoland’s Daisy just won her lawsuit and would also be a great interview

[@Mangotropolis]

I've been typing the word kpop since 2013, autocorrect STILL corrects it. >.>

[@yasmeen6532]

Yes! There was literally a whole hour documentary about nine muses life in the kpop industry. Ryu Sera would be an amazing person to interview as she would be able to elaborate on so much on what happened in her career

[@potatoprsk]

Omg Jeongmin... I was such a huge BOYFRIEND stan back then, their music was amazing.. i'm SO happy he's here to share his long time experience, i miss the entire group overall, but this is indeed super exhausting and it's not healthy for a normal person, i'm glad he looks like he's doing better

[@Starryplants]

I miss Jeongmin so much I'm glad he was able to talk about his experiences too 😭😭😭😭

[@potatoprsk]

@@Starryplants he looks great as always, i wonder what the other members are up to... bc i've left kpop entirely back in 2016-2017, so idk what's going on, but i'm not surprised if the company and behind the scenes is still screwed over tbh

[@vandythevandy]

@@potatoprsk all the members of boyfriend have instagrams!! donghyun is in a musical right now, hyunseong releases solo music, i think youngmin will be in a play, minwoo has a youtube channel, kwangmin has a band(?) called cats drink coke, and of course jeongmin has his solo music now too!!

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON KING

[@sleepyhead0007]

@@himaririku9254 lol you again I think we're meant to be soulmates!!!😭 Lol yes g dragon is king we all do know so you don't need to go around 100s of vids n comment it-👁️👄👁️

[@oliwia416]

Everyone talking about Jeongmin and Bekah, I want to give some love to Christine! I know her from DKDKTV's podcast and I always loved hearing her insider perspective about kpop idol life. I know Blady wasn't nearly as popular as After School or Boyfriend but I think it's important to hear from idols who also worked extremely hard and never got their big break

[@lainie2747]

Yes... the DKDKTV podcast with Soobeanie was always insightful. She was awesome and gave interesting commentary on the K-Pop industry.

[@sen0440]

glad many k-idols went to rest/hiatus nowadays for mental health reason, been a fan of kpop for 8 years and i can see that the industry is getting better as time goes by, the fans also become more accepting of them dating as it should be

[@UwU-lm9or]

I agree with this especially the last part 😩

[@dasanii2467]

that's not true at all. do you know how many people dont wanna believe that its aren't with anyone

[@purpleplanet888]

@@dasanii2467 true but look at the recent twice and red velvet dating news they arent giving hate to them

[@andromedamessier3176]

@@purpleplanet888 most still got hate from knetz. The international fans are ok with them dating.

[@foosheezoo]

I feel like it’s mostly the fans who don’t want to progress, they still will hate on idols if they date or look at any other idols or whatever and it’s sad to see.

[@fries_frames]

Anthony, I would love to see "I Spent A Day With Children of Adoption" - and maybe even share my story! I have encountered negative language surrounding adoption throughout my life and I am passionate about dispelling it. It would also be super interesting to hear from someone who was adopted from Foster Care because that is such a distinct experience and it's so important to hear different perspectives!

[@glitterhoney]

i was adopted from foster care and people paint those who adopt you as saints. not always the case…

[@fries_frames]

@@glitterhoney Definitely not always the case. I appreciate you commenting.

[@msolovely623]

Yes pleaseee

[@flugansomintekomhem]

But also would from some international adoptees and the dark side that has been coming out lately (at least in Sweden where I live).

[@nachoyacho]

i would like to hear three separate views just to show everything, sorta like pros cons and such, like international adoptions, great ones like yours, and ones that have had negative experiences (and are willing to speak on it) just to really show the pov of the children who were adopted and how people who are considering adoption or fostering can see how to treat their children and how not to just kind of show it all

[@lavenderblue511]

When I saw Bekah I got so emotional and started crying. She was one of the first idols I fell in love with, and when she and Gahi left Afterschool I just started realizing how bad it was and started losing interest in the Kpop industry. Thanks Anthony, this was a BRILLIANT episode and kudos to you for bringing big ex kpop stars

[@lachibolala486]

i love how he makes his guests feel comfortable no matter what they are talking about

[@Plut0h0bi_]

Some idols make it seem easy, but behind the scenes, I’m sure it’s super hard. From the constantly being on camera, not being able to be in public without being recognized, delusional fans, the stamina you need to have to dance and sing at the same time, and the horrible beauty standard. As a kpop stan myself, I already know of the bad things that go on in the industry, but this really opened my eyes

[@AllMyInkHybrid]

Yeah 💜

[@cybergalacticnova]

And also tons of stuff like blackmail, assault, and eating disorders.

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON KING G DRAGON

[@Nicho_]

As a fan of Boyfriend, I was honestly surprised to see one of the members here. They were actually my favorite group for a while and I was really sad when they didn't have a comeback, then slowly faded to the back before disbanding. I hope better things come their way, and I'm happy Jeongmin was able to share some of his experiences.

[@shyrose3358]

they redebut as BF recently with an album!

[@ireneschanelhandbag]

JEONGMIN'S NAME BEING SPELLED WRONG CONFUSED THE HECK OUT OF ME 😭 Glad to see him talking about how his career was. I used to be a huge fan of boyfriend and when they disbanded I was really sad but watching him do things outside of kpop promotions is fun

[@AnthonyPadilla]

i’m so embarrassed for the typo in jeongmin’s name in the intro ☹️ glad you were able to enjoy despite this!

[@ireneschanelhandbag]

@@AnthonyPadilla spelling mistakes are bound to happen lol your videos are always great and informative no matter what. thank you so much for what you do and I hope you realize how greatly appreciated you are ❤️

[@genesisfunes7551]

ur username omg

[@dillydallylovesvids]

The good thing is that they are back!! I'm not sure if you knew but they are reformed under BF so definitely check them out if you haven't ❣

[@kurekureci9423]

@@AnthonyPadilla Did you do an epilepsy episode? If not, you definitely should. It's super interesting and also super misunderstood, at least from my experience.

[@starxmon]

Literally lost it when I saw Bekah and Jeongmin - i still love and listen to both Boyfriend and After School to this day

[@01dulce]

omg i like ur girls planet 999 videoos

[@starxmon]

@@01dulce thank you

[@takotacolol]

21:25 The perfect example of it is LOONA. The girls were treated like shit and orbits started to boycott them from the moment when chuu was kicked out. Some people say that "boycott doesnt works" but yes, it does. Their comeback is delayed only cuz of boycott. Orbits are the best fandom i've ever seen. Love ya orbits

[@winxyverse]

And now we won, all of the girls are free :)

[@reyduaXO]

I'm glad he talked to real idols about this. I can see in some groups and companies nowadays things are getting better, but I can imagine how hard it was and probably still is to go through the kpop industry

[@sleepyhead0007]

Yess.... I also saw vid of "momoland" they're a girl group, in that vid they were like doing a vlive or something n idk there was some kind of voice yelling at someone n the girls were so anxious tbh but still they were acting so calm n reading the comments like they didn't even hear those yells... It's not just one time this happened.... There are multiple vids where the girls are really scared of someone or the staffs I think... I'm really concerned about them I wish I could just do something for them but them boom I'm just a minor who loves music-🤧 Im not really sure if it's "momoland" or any other girl group... Kpop's dark sides are really heart breaking, especially jonghyun's death💔.. I really miss him idk y bcz I wasn't even a fan back then... He was really a great person.

[@jacquesdaniels2435]

Getting better? Lol

[@therealdannydevito2634]

Korean idols work so hard and yet still get backlash from the media about their body, especially female idols. They don’t deserve it at all and it’s honestly so sad.

[@kerronwalker1589]

Bakeh has such an interesting story about her idol life, she was basically apart of kpop when it was just freshly taking the world stage and becoming popular. Afterschool is till this day one of my favourite kpop idol groups, there concepts still have not been matched and no one in the industry was dancing the way they where at the time and the way they where very versatile and almost chameleon like back then was almost unheard off. Alot of kpop fans now don't realise how big diva, because of you and bang where at those time epically considering they weren't apart of big 3. It was basically big 3 groups ft Kara, Tara, Sistar and afterschool during that era of kpop. I seriously miss afterschool and I was so happy she took part in the reunion.

[@dillydallylovesvids]

As a best friend who was there for their hiatus,disbandment,disbanding and reforming- I'm so happy I was able to see this. Anthony thank you so much. Best friend truly appreciate the love you gave to our bubbie Jeongmin. It's hard and was hard seeing the boys deal with all the pain but we are here always to support and love them.

[@OfficialP4NCAKE]

helloooo would you know if they’re still coming back? after all the rebranding we haven’t heard in like 5 months?

[@DarkFaeCosplay]

@@OfficialP4NCAKE just released a music video

[@djiedragon]

@@DarkFaeCosplay link to the video, please

[@DarkFaeCosplay]

@@djiedragon it called When You Smile- BF mv (Christmas Special release)

[@amayaaries]

I really hope people don’t think every idol’s situation is the same. The industry is crap but every company is different with their policies. I hope people don’t diss fans for liking kpop because of the industry because no one hates industry more than kpop fans and they diss the companies constantly. Also I’m so glad you got seasoned idols to actually tell their stories. I really loved Boyfriend when I was in middle school and high school🖤

[@letizialorusso1950]

True, when you start becoming fan of different idols you start noticing some differences between different companies. For me that happened when I was introduced to P Nation so I started searching more about k-pop companies

[@amayaaries]

I just finished the video I genuinely thank you Anthony for actually talking to idols for their experience. I see so many “Dark Side of Kpop” videos and they are full of assumptions and don’t even consider the idols themselves and most of them are very dehumanizing towards the idols treating as if they’re robots. Thank you for all you do, i really enjoy your videos and hope to see more things like this in the future!

[@letizialorusso1950]

@@amayaaries Couldn't agree more

[@ieatbeansontoast]

Yes that is so true. There are some good companies that treat their idol's like human beings rather than just "products" and give them more freedom in their music, own lives and takes care of their idol's mental and physical health. Those companies obviously still have bad sides to them, but no company is perfect.

[@wildstingray4463]

if they know how bad the industry is as a whole and they continue to support, they deserve to be dissed. idc

[@snuggies8037]

Let us just take a moment to recognize the strength the trainees, current idols, and past idols have? The industry is competitive, toxic, and exhausting! Stories like this should be wide spread! Our idols deserve to be treated better! They are people too! 💕

[@LilSk1tty]

Spend a day with The president!

[@slowbrodragon6951]

Donald Trump! :)

[@SilverDOMO192837]

@@slowbrodragon6951 just accept the L bro

[@sethgleason7611]

@@slowbrodragon6951he didn't say former president

[@cdy]

It would be a slow day

[@renee3883]

don’t ruin anthony’s channel like that

[@MaiNguyen-co4jh]

Jae from Day6 would have spilled everything if he was on here. He wouldn't hold back bc he has a lot of pent-up frustration against his company. Although he's still an active idol so he wouldn't have fit in the "ex" part of this video. Edit: This comment was written before Jae showed his true colors. I no longer support him and do not believe he should be here (or on any show/channel).

[@pineapplecastella2584]

Oh poor jae, he was badly mistreated and knetizens didn't really like his twitch/youtube hobby. Talented individual, horribly conducted by jype

[@haraayuhime6381]

He'd also be tied to an NDA.. But personally, I dont think there ever will be a Big Three ex who will like, openly shade, with exception of Jay Park but that man has a deep hatred for JYP-nim (the person, not the company) I also think most JYPE artists have a huge dislike towards the company and system and less towards the people / staff / JYP himself

[@-amel-9896]

do you really think he would be able to say "everything", especially since he is literally under a contract under one of the big 3 companies in kpop???? Also, it's quite different how idols and band members are treated in kpop, Day6 is more of a band than an idol group

[@Sophya7]

No way he would talk. He signed a NDA and jyp is super powerful

[@jojo-se1ne]

Vouch. Jae would be perfect for a video like this

[@Redrubysapphire12]

As a best friend, I cried so hard hearing jeongmin’s experiences, it’s so good to know he’s happier now than he was and that he’s still making what he loves

[@nadiadeann3282]

I feel like Woosung and the other members of the The Rose would’ve been perfect for this too. They went through so much from their company. edit: lol guys THEY STILL EXIST, but i figured since their contract with their previous company ended, they would be good examples for this video 😭

[@hamham1498]

i actually just started listening to woosung and the rose's music so im really curious what happened with them

[@letamedshrew2383]

the rose doesn't exist anymore???? hell no :/ i listened to some of their songs and they're talented, the music and vocals *chef's kiss*

[@punkbabylrh]

DAY6 TOO theres a lot going on right now

[@bellabennett1677]

Jae from day6 would have been amazing in this. He has so much going on atm and is talking about it

[@y-lannguyen1426]

The rose aint ex-kpop tho, they are still a kpop band

[@gemmathesootsprite2805]

Idol culture is so incredibly toxic and abusive. Humans are not products to be owned. Until this mentality changes, the abuse will continue. Slave contracts is what these companies thrive on and they prey on children as well, not just adults. Someone needs to step in and force these companies to adhere to basic human rights. I adore Kpop, but when I learned the behind the scenes secrets I was heartbroken. P Nation seems to be changing the mold. I wish others would follow suit!

[@gigabaiit]

the new companies founded by idols are definitely changing the game, i hope the industry goes down that path

[@xoluciaxo_3721]

to be fair these people are talking about things that happened 10+ years ago and it's definitely not like that anymore. There are still lots of shitty smaller companies out there for sure (just think of Cube💀) but companies like HYPE and Pledis are really good companies! Even though After School is also from Pledis the company really changed for the better ever since SEVENTEEN and they have the most freedom i've ever seen an idol group have, especially since their new contract this year

[@blue1584]

@@xoluciaxo_3721 Oh no Pledis is definitely not a good company lol. They only treat Seventeen somewhat good because they are the company’s main cash cow... but they treated After School and Nu’est horribly for years and years

[@seb______]

@@blue1584 yeah Pledis did nothing for Seventeen. Seventeen had to carry THEMSELVES to get to where they are

[@blue1584]

@@seb______ Yeah true. Pledis treated Seventeen really badly when they were rookies too... Pledis sucks

[@sabi06]

I’m glad for companies like P Nation that give idols comfort and allow them to live a bit more freely while also encouraging their artists to produce their content that they want to create.

[@browniebear9282]

In light of Jessie leaving P Nation and talking about how exhausted she was mentally during her time there, I must say this comment aged like milk

[@sabi06]

@@browniebear9282 I understand. However in any entertainment industry it won’t always be easy. Simply comparing this to SM or JYP for example. P nation seems to be more humane in a sense towards its idols.

[@feezathegreat]

I was a huge fan of afterschool and boyfriend back then.

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON KING G DRAGON

[@JaxBox1]

Same here

[@maarii_aoki]

11:46 it just reminds me how cube treated hyuna and dawn, and how they lost fans due to them dating :(( so glad they’re both in pnation now! edit: support them both by streaming ‘ping pong’ ★彡

[@jaithon7254]

pnation is the best! love psy!

[@cherryblossom7120]

Well the hyuna and dawn situation didn't effect just them but the Pentagon members were effected as well and not in a good way.

[@willa_888]

@@cherryblossom7120 triple h was affected too because it was a coed group of Hyuna, Dawn, and Hui from pentagon and they revealed they were dating in the middle of promotions for their comeback

[@22Angelbby]

I’ve never understood why people are so harsh on idols for dating

[@nachoyacho]

im glad theyre engaged now and releasing music together happily, im wishing the best for pentagon now that drama has calmed down even though they should judge people who arent involved and stop supporting them for someone being in a relationship w someone

[@StarElementalDancer]

Seeing Jeongmin smiling so happily after getting complimented for his music is so precious and pure. I need to go check out his music, it sounds up my alley. And I was a Boyfriend fan so I miss them lol. And Bekah! She was definitely awesome in After School so I wanna check hers out bc it sounds really fun. Thanks Anthony for all the updates. As international fans, we can't keep up with stuff as much and don't know where to look to find old idols that might be doing new things so thanks so much!

[@Zgymorph]

A “I spent a day with K-pop idols” would be so interesting now. You’ve got fans, ex-idols, and then idols would be so interesting. Loved the video Anthony!

[@jesusssugarbabyuwu78yearsa63]

I think it would be difficult with current idols tho. Like, I don’t think they’ll be able to be as honest as the ex idols here

[@Pattypink13]

@@jesusssugarbabyuwu78yearsa63 very true, they have to abide by the company's rules and can't just say anything and maybe not all questions would be accepted to be aired or even be asked.

[@jesusssugarbabyuwu78yearsa63]

@@Pattypink13 yeah. It makes me feel bad that they wouldn’t be able to say certain things

[@gigabaiit]

@@jesusssugarbabyuwu78yearsa63 yeah, if he does it he should probably get idols that are under companies like pnation or that have their own companies, since i think they could give the most honest answers

[@jesusssugarbabyuwu78yearsa63]

@@gigabaiit yeahh. I would honestly love to see how current idols feel abt their careers.

[@G-ForceJoJo]

Kpop idols could be on another level if they were treated nicely. I bet the trainees would also then actually want to work hard because they are shown respect through the process, being treated like actual human beings, not as tools

[@JM-hd3lr]

their career would probably last longer too

[@sooahnim]

sorry to be that person but I need to say this >_

[@frenchfry6713]

@@sooahnim right and ateez

[@shime1956]

Mhmm, there are some groups that are treated VERY well by their company where the idols really enjoy what they're doing rather than being forced to do such stuff.

[@G-ForceJoJo]

YES YES!!! There are (enough) companies that treat their idols/trainees well, I didn't mean to state otherwise. However, I feel it's just that the companies that don't have this as a priority weigh so much more in the industry, it's sometimes hard to look past.

[@antropofagica]

Anthony, thank you so much for this interview! Those were all huge people for those who like k-pop for such a long time - I mean, freaking Bekah? A Boyfriend member, and a K-POP Star contestant? You were also very respectful towards their experiences and what's more, towards the industry. Your tone was totally respectuful and no hints of trying to paint the K-Pop industry as having this "DARK SIDE" but instead letting the idols speak. Love how you handle those interviews!

[@eykyra]

The part about the blood type got me shocked. I knew that there was kind of a belief that it relates to personality but to make a whole group based on that idea and then hiding one member's real type sounds crazy

[@idkyetjohnson2410]

Right like who thought of that

[@typoooxwoo]

I mean sistar member's birthday are faked by the company, so yeah?

[@letizialorusso1950]

I was waiting for this, I always see tons of people on the internet sharing theories and guessing what being a k-pop idol is like but I'm happy we can see what atcual ex k-pop idols/trainees think about this and what their own experience was like without crazy over the top theories but also without many filters. I personally feel like with Anthony I can be sure an interview like this is more authentic than if it was done by someone else, or controlled by a k-pop company. They always try to make things look so perfect (like a lot of people and companies, doesn't necesseraly have to do with k-pop), but just like everything it can't be everything, it's going to both a good and bad side to it, and it's good sometimes we take some time to stop idolizing as much and look at things more realistically 'cause it can become very toxic

[@blue1584]

I’m curious what kind of crazy theories you have heard about being a kpop idol? Because honestly if it was bad stuff about idols/trainees being mistreated or abused by their company/staff, chances are it wasn’t just a theory... chances are that it’s true. I feel like most people who have been kpop fans for awhile start to realize how messed up the industry is, and how badly the idols are treated. It’s pretty impossible not to notice especially when there’s been so many idols and trainees that have spoken about their experiences, and they all pretty much say the same things about being overworked, sleep deprived, put on severe restrictive diets, no privacy, no free will or control over their lives, most make very little money and are trapped into long unbreakable ‘slave contracts’. They usually begin their careers as idols/trainees as young kids and their mental health and physical health are typically neglected, and most aren’t even allowed to visit their parents and families. Essentially idols are treated like property and disposable products by their company, rather than treated like human beings. It’s pretty awful... the longer you’re a fan the more terrible stuff you pick up on. I honestly think only _very_ new fans of kpop would idolize/romanticize the life of being a kpop idol... but after awhile they realize what it’s actually like...

[@kookieslisp2848]

@@blue1584 this is very true I don’t acknowledge or support the companies until I feel like the employees and idols genuinely enjoy being there - which majority is never

[@himaririku9254]

G DRAGON KING

[@JokerCrowe]

I've been a K-pop fan since 2010/11, and I was honestly so upset the first time I heard about how idols are actually treated. It was a surprise to me when I first heard it, because the members seemed to have so much fun. I realized then how much of it is an act, and that you don't really know exactly what's happening behind the scenes, because that's not something you're allowed to see There are many factors that go into this treatment - Korea's work ethic in general, the idols "knowing what they signed up for" and so on - but I'm really hoping that Idols can be allowed to form some kind of Union. There was a lot of talk about that after the horrific tragedy that happened to the group Ladies' Code, but I think the discussions around that have slowed down or stopped completely. There's definitely a dark side to K-pop idol life, and while some companies are definitely better than others, none of them are entirely free from these kinds of problems. No, not even your favorite company is free from these kinds of problems. I support the idols themselves because I think they deserve it from working so hard, but my position on K-pop companies has become a lot more cynical over the years.

[@clararocha1338]

omg After School was a part of my childhood and after their disbandment I never heard from them again, so seeing Bekah again after years feels so refreshing. Thank you so much for inviting her and giving her the space to speak up.

[@nadiakustner7288]

I hsve been following Christine for some time now, I just love how open she is about being a K-pop Idol. Not many people see how difficult the 'trainee life' is. Thank you so much for this video Anthony!!

[@cakredi4132]

Talking about physical regimes, AFTER SCHOOL (the group Bekah once in) was famous for their ever-changing performance concepts. From executing marching band skills to bringing pole-dancing to their stages. *True legends.*

[@MemesAreFriendsNotFood]

Props to Hyuna and Dawn for helping break down the dating stigma in Kpop. Stream Ping Pong ♡

[@srijakoju9120]

Well now we can't say that!! They broke up

[@emptyteardrops]

@@srijakoju9120 Love isn’t real… HyunA and Dawn broke up

[@andreinapereira552]

they broke up :(((((

[@simply_gargi_]

Ahhh not now 😭

[@TheCratsky]

When I think of kpop, I always think of churning. Artists are a dime a dozen as companies keep churning them out and replacing members or disbanding without any reasons.

[@bevzay]

Seeing members from Boyfriend and After School brings back memories of being a kpop fan from the 2nd gen. Glad they're doing better and especially for Christine

[@diana-hx3qz]

I don't want to pry into any idol's business of course, but sometimes I desperately want to know the innermost thoughts of some of my favorite group's opinions about the industry. At the end of the day, as a Kpop fan, I just want to know they're doing okay. Because seriously the industry can be horrid, and all the hardworking and compassionate idols deserve to feel safe, healthy, and genuinely rewarded. It's a weird feeling, loving Kpop but also knowing how hard it can be. Although not an ex-idol (I don't think?) it would be cool to see Samuel (ex Seventeen trainee) talk about Pledis and his career too but then again he was so young idk if he fully processed everything back then. Also Pledis sucks pls poor After School too. Thank you so much Anthony for this video. There's so much speculation and not a lot of clear answers about the industry, so this was much appreciated.

[@LyLyeIa]

I saw Jeongmin on the thumbnail, and I'm already crying. Knowing his perspective during all those years just made me cry more. I'm just so so so happy that they're gonna release a mini-album soon.

[@Sora6893]

The fact that there's still people who think being a kpop idol is easy AND seeing how many haters group have, is disgusting. These people need support, they're HUMANS. Thank you for this!

[@tasmiaazad7117]

Even though I'm aware of how horrible the industry is, hearing it from actual ex idols and not an article still gives me a feel about how tough it must've been. Full Respect to current idols, ex idols, and trainees!!

[@radish.]

Thank you for giving our Jeongmin a large platform to share his thoughts and feelings - it's so good to see him again! Boyfriend had the potential to go all the way but were failed by their company so horrifically, it's something that will always irk me as a BestFriend, I wish we could've done more for them.

[@axis1198]

Seeing BOYFRIEND Jeongmin here made me tear up. Ive seen them during their peak, their silence, and now that they are rising as themselves now. ♡♡♡

[@saphireanabeth6678]

As much as I am in the kpop world (and it's nearly been 11 years) I am very aware of just how toxic the entertainment would be and I feel like especially the female idols have to suffer so much under insane beauty standards :((

[@rayna5561]

Same we have been fans for way to long 🥺

[@serchmaabaatarchuluun5761]

I'm glad Anthony interviewed Kpop Idols that I knew because most of the time others interviews people I never ever heard of. After school was my childhood and I remember being impressed with their English lines pronunciation in Bang! but now that makes sense cause Bekah is actually Korean American. And I remember Boyfriend songs like Bounce and Witch because of their halloween like concept. Also I heard about Soobin because of DKDK tv. All in all it was pretty good interview with great cast.

[@vagnervivien]

Wow I can't believe how many topics you cover and how you can always find new ones and put your time into reasearch even if it's with the helps of subscribers. I really love watching your videos and learning new things about our world

[@WomanTakenBytheWind]

Bekah was my favorite member of AS. Glad to see she’s doing well and that her graduation wasn’t this horrible thing everyone assumed. Love you Bekah.

[@shhhimnothere.2878]

11:53 that´s exactly the problem, though. That is the DAMN problem. Idols are more often associated with how pretty, cute, handsome or sexy they are, than with how talented they are, the moment these companies start marketing them as ARTISTS, that’s the moment TRUE fans will want to stick around. Let’s use Mamamoo and TWICE as an example, 2 absolutely talented and successful girl groups, but if you compare their fanbases you will notice how solid Mamamoo’s fan base is in comparison to TWICE’s, that´s because Mamamoo were always marketed as a group of vocalists, whereas TWICE were marketed as cute girlfriend’s and, yes their fanbase is big, but as soon as they make changes, fans are quick to turn on them. I mean, when they changed to a more mature concept, many fans left them. As soon as 2 of the members started dating publicly, many fans left them, one of the members is sick and gained weight because of the hormones in her treatment, and many fans have turned their back on her and are now disgusting towards her. Those attitudes from fans are a consequence of how these companies market them. They allow for these fans to feel like buying albums and merchandise somehow gives them ownership over these people when the reality is, IDOLS DON’T OWE YOU ANYTHING OTHER THAN WHAT YOU PAY FOR WHICH IS MUSIC, MERCHANDISE, CONCERTS AND FAN SERVICE, YOU DON’T PAY TO HAVE A SAY IN THEIR FAMILY LIFE, LOVE LIFE, OR FRIENDSHIPS. The only positive thing is that daily, we see more and more groups starting to step up and self produce and write their music, sadly it is mostly seen in boy groups, but What else is new, women always have to work twice fold to be respected. Anyways… there’s my rant. Goodbye. Stan TWICE and Mamamoo, and send good vibes to Jeongyeon

[@RainyOverFlowers]

BEKAH MY QUEEN 😍 Thank you so much for being so open and thoughtful for doing these topics Anthony ♡ It was so good to see all three of them again

[@daejiiiii]

I'm so glad they were brave enough to come forward and share their experiences. especially jeongmin since he was in a kpop group so long.

[@LexiH1116]

Wow! I loved BLady, it’s so interesting having this insight from Christine. Thank you for this video Anthony! I’m glad you got actual ex idols and not trainees who trained for a really short time.

[@theogrhino1144]

You should do “spending a day with maladaptive daydreamers”

[@LyndsayChan]

Yeah, I agree

[@breadsotrue]

it would be my time to shine with that 😭

[@wlwskye]

as a maladaptive daydreamer i agree ✋🏾

[@forgotmyun]

My time to shine 😂😂😂

[@kimwootorong6477]

UP

[@animefan462]

I would love to see an interview with ex Japanese underground idols cause thats a whole nother world

[@honeyblood5497]

As a fan of Kpop for more than ten years, I loved this interview. It is very realistic and you can see the interest, beyond talking about Kpop being a popular topic today. It made me nostalgic to see Jeongmin and Bekah, After School and Boyfriend were giants, great groups, I miss them. 😭 And I love Christine, she’s so honest. 💜💜💜

[@caritomei7798]

I am so grateful for this video, a lot of young people that have just gotten into kpop have this perfect image of what being kpop idols is like, this really shows how tiring and exhausting it is, also showing how we should all give them respect as their life is so hard. Wishing the best to the ex-kpop idols out there ❤️

[@blue1584]

Yeah a lot of brand new kpop fans really have no idea... but the illusion of perfection is usually broken pretty quickly once you’ve been a fan for awhile, and you realize how much suffering and hardships are endured by the idols you’re a fan of :(

[@jaaaaeee]

If a video ever comes out with the title “I spent a day with the president” i wouldn’t be surprised dude

[@Skyblue1022]

I am SO excited so hear from Bekah. I guess it has already been 10 years, huh? I absolutely adore her and followed her long after she left. I am so beyond ecstatic to learn she is continuing to make music!! I wish her, and all the others featured here, the best and they find happiness in their new ventures on their own terms. So proud of them all.

[@yubesu7705]

I love Bekah and she was my fave in After School at that time! Was sad to see her go yet happy for her to pursue what she really wants, AND freedom. It’s a shame I’ve never heard of Blady, since Christine is such a pretty and eloquent person, and it’s no big news how Kpop idol being treated, but it’s still quite hard to hear their experiences again and a again

[@vandythevandy]

OH MY GOD JEONGMIN???? LOVE OF MY LIFE???? I've been a best friend since they debuted, I love them all so much and it has been so nice to see that they are still doing stuff together!! They have soooo many amazing songs that helped define their gen of kpop! Janus, Don't Touch My Girl, I Yah, Love Style...just to name some of my personal favorites 😆💕 I love to see the members working on their own stuff now too :) They worked so hard and I'm so happy for them ;;

[@rayna5561]

Awww that’s so sweet best friends 😍

[@sunflowers_sarah]

It's interesting to notice how the industry has changed over the years, too...I've been watching many videos of 2nd gen groups losing members, replacing people, etc., but nowadays you get a bit less of that. I'm hoping it's because when an idol is injured, needs rest, or has personal issues, they can more easily take a break and come back after (like Jeongyeon in TWICE) instead of being removed from the group and never spoken about again (9Muses, anyone?). It's obviously still a ruthless industry, but hopefully it's veering more into that positive territory when it comes to idols' health.

[@sakamotoverge3194]

Being an idol is a High Risk, High Reward job where half of the investment is the 1/4 of your lifetime. Not to mention that people will always judge you and your whole career depends entirely on fans. And until they're well-known, most of them are so mistreated that it's so miserable even to hear their experience. So if you want to become an idol, at least think thrice before deciding.