K-Pop Debt Trap: Idols Earn Less Than You Think

K-pop idols frequently face significant financial challenges, a reality recently highlighted by former MOMOLAND member Hyebin. In a video shared on her YouTube channel, Hyebin detailed how idol trainees often begin their professional careers with substantial debt, often amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. This financial burden stems from a common practice where agencies, particularly mid-to-small sized ones, bill idols for all training-related expenses once they debut.

Hyebin explained that this 'post-paid system' includes costs for lessons, food, housing, and practice room rentals. Even after achieving success, like MOMOLAND's hit 'Bboom Bboom,' K-pop artists typically share promotional expenses equally with their agencies. This means idols are responsible for half the costs associated with songs, music videos, photoshoots, management, transportation, and styling for appearances.