As K-pop's popularity soars, South Korea has become a destination for young people from around the world eager to break into the music industry. However, the journey towards stardom can often be marked by exploitation and trauma.
For Miyu, a teen who relocated to Seoul, the dream quickly morphed into a nightmare as she enrolled in a K-pop training program that promised professional vocal coaching and audition opportunities but delivered far less. Paying a hefty fee of approximately $19,800, she expected substantial training but found herself experiencing harassment and a disregard for her safety.
Miyu's allegations are echoed by two other trainees who attended the same academy. They report instances of sexual harassment from a senior staff member, pointing to a troubling lack of oversight in an industry marked by unregulated training programs. The academy's management has denied these allegations, which underscores a systemic issue within the K-pop training framework.
Regulatory bodies in South Korea have limited power over such entertainment agencies, which often fall outside the educational regulations that govern typical training environments. This leaves aspiring stars vulnerable as they chase their dreams amidst a backdrop of risk and abuse.
Despite the risks, the allure of K-pop remains potent. Many trainees, like Miyu, cling to their aspirations, navigating a precarious path toward fame despite the personal challenges and traumas they endure.
