The Dark Side of K-Pop Dream: Trainees Share Their Struggles

Sat Feb 07 2026 07:25:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite the alluring image of K-pop stardom, young aspirants like Miyu face harsh realities, from unfulfilled training promises to alleged harassment in South Korea's competitive music industry.

As K-pop's popularity grows, so does the influx of hopeful trainees attempting to achieve fame in South Korea. However, many like Miyu, who invested heavily in training, report unfulfilled promises of auditions and disturbing experiences of harassment. The lack of regulation in training agencies leaves these young artists vulnerable and questioning the industry they aspire to join.

As K-pop's popularity soars, South Korea has become a destination for young people worldwide hoping to break into the industry. Many take that chance each year to enroll in programs promising a path to stardom.

That hope brought Miyu to South Korea in 2024, where she paid 3 million yen ($19,800; £14,500) to join a six-month program at a K-pop training academy in Seoul, expecting professional dance and vocal lessons and auditions for major music agencies.

However, Miyu reported that while lessons were sparse, weekly auditions were promised but never occurred. Disturbingly, she alleged she was sexually harassed by a senior staff member, claims which the company denies.

Miyu's experience highlights a troubling aspect of an industry that's often under-regulated. The BBC spoke with other trainees who corroborated her allegations, with one even adding her experience of harassment from the same staff member.

The academy was identified as an entertainment agency, and participants noted significant gaps in oversight compared to educational institutions.

Elin, another former trainee, shared her experiences of uncomfortable encounters and lack of agency support, which ultimately led her to drop out of the program. After filing a police report that was later dropped for lack of evidence, she expressed concern for the safety of those who undertake the K-pop dream.

Although reports indicate a decrease in overall trainee numbers, the allure of fame continues to draw hopefuls like Miyu, who remains determined to pursue her idol dreams. Whenever things were hard, I held on by listening to K-pop. I still want to become an idol, no matter what, she said.

This situation reflects a pressing need for reform and oversight in the K-pop industry, ensuring that aspiring stars can chase their dreams in safe and supportive environments.