An Intimate Look into the World of K-Pop

A new docuseries on Apple TV+, titled “K-Pop Idols,” offers a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lives of some of South Korea’s most promising musical talents. The series delves into the intense challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing a career in the highly competitive and glamorous world of K-pop. By following the journeys of several artists, the show paints a vivid picture of what it takes to rise to stardom in South Korea’s cut-throat music industry.

The docuseries features Jessi (Jessica Ho), a seasoned Korean American rapper navigating her career after parting ways with Psy’s record label, the girl group Blackswan, which is grappling with internal conflicts while striving for global fame, and Cravity, a nine-member boy band trying to establish its presence after debuting during the Covid-19 pandemic. Each of these artists represents a different facet of the K-pop world, from the seasoned veteran to the newcomers hoping to make their mark.

Jessi: A Veteran in the Spotlight

Jessi, who has been a fixture in the Korean music scene since her debut in 2005, stands out as the most experienced artist in the series. With nearly two decades in the industry, she has witnessed the dramatic evolution of K-pop firsthand. The series follows her as she embarks on a new chapter in her career, showcasing both the highs and lows of being an established artist in an ever-changing industry. Despite her success, Jessi opens up about the personal costs of her career, particularly the loneliness that accompanies her hectic life. “When I go back home (to) Korea, I go back to an empty house,” she confesses, revealing the emotional toll of prioritizing work over personal relationships.

Blackswan: A Group in Transition

Blackswan offers a compelling narrative of a girl group that has undergone multiple transformations over the years. Originally formed over a decade ago under different names and with various members, the group is now composed entirely of international members, reflecting the industry’s efforts to globalize K-pop. The series explores the dynamics within the group, particularly the tension between members Leia and Fatou. This conflict, which escalates after Leia posts on social media about feeling isolated during a gathering at Fatou’s family home, highlights the cultural and emotional challenges that can arise in a multinational group.

Leia, a Brazilian singer, shares her struggles with depression and the difficulty of being away from her family. Her candid discussion about mental health, a topic often stigmatized in South Korea, adds a poignant layer to the series. “I know I am sick,” Leia says, referring to her depression. “Here in Korea, depression is not a sickness.” Her openness about her mental health challenges sheds light on the pressures that K-pop idols face, particularly those far from home.

Cravity: The Challenges of Newcomers

For Cravity, a rookie boy band, the series documents the immense pressure to succeed in a market saturated with established acts. Having debuted during the pandemic, Cravity faces the dual challenge of breaking into the industry while navigating the restrictions and uncertainties brought about by Covid-19. The group’s journey is marked by grueling training sessions, high expectations, and the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the K-pop industry.

The Dark Side of K-Pop: Mental Health and Body Image

One of the central themes of “K-Pop Idols” is the immense pressure that young stars face, particularly regarding mental health and body image. The series does not shy away from the darker aspects of the industry, including the stringent standards idols must meet. Many K-pop stars start training as teenagers, enduring long hours of practice and strict management, which can take a severe toll on their mental and physical health. In recent years, the industry has been rocked by several high-profile suicides, underscoring the mental health crisis within K-pop.

The show highlights the extreme measures idols often take to maintain their physical appearance. For instance, Cravity’s vocalist Wonjin recalls being told to lose weight during his audition for Starship Entertainment, leading him to eat just one egg a day for two weeks, resulting in a 15-pound weight loss. Similarly, Blackswan members Gabi and Sriya undergo strict diets and intense training to fit the industry’s standards, further illustrating the sacrifices required to succeed in K-pop.

The Struggles of Foreign Idols

As K-pop continues to expand its global reach, the industry has increasingly recruited foreign talent, a trend that is explored in the series through the experiences of Blackswan. The group’s current lineup, consisting entirely of non-Korean members, reflects the industry’s efforts to appeal to a broader audience. However, this globalization comes with its own set of challenges. Gabi, from Brazil, and Sriya, from India, both underwent rigorous training in Korea, which tested not only their physical endurance but also their mental resilience. Despite their hard work, they face unique pressures as foreign idols, including cultural and language barriers that add to the already high demands of the industry.

Blackswan’s manager, Philip YJ Yoon, acknowledges the difficulties in managing a multinational group, noting that different cultural backgrounds can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Unlike traditional Korean groups, where members are often tightly controlled by their management, a multinational group like Blackswan requires a different approach. “With other K-pop groups or girl groups, the company heavily controls the members. If the company says ‘don’t fight,’ they won’t fight,” Yoon explains. “But, with a multinational group, everyone’s language, culture, and the way they express themselves is different. So, it doesn’t make sense to try to control them the way Korean groups are controlled.”

Moments of Levity Amidst the Struggle

Despite the intense pressures and challenges faced by the artists, “K-Pop Idols” also captures moments of joy and camaraderie. The show balances its depiction of the industry’s hardships with lighter, more uplifting scenes. Viewers see the close friendship between Gabi and Sriya, the touching bond between Fatou and her mother, and the strong brotherhood among the Cravity members. These moments of connection and support offer a stark contrast to the otherwise harsh realities of the K-pop world, reminding viewers that, despite everything, these young stars are still passionate about their craft and the dreams they are chasing.

Conclusion: The High Cost of Stardom

“K-Pop Idols” provides a compelling and unfiltered look at the world of K-pop, revealing both the grit and the glamour that define the industry. The series exposes the high cost of achieving stardom in South Korea’s music scene, from the intense physical and mental demands placed on idols to the personal sacrifices they must make. Yet, it also highlights the resilience and dedication of these artists, who continue to pursue their dreams despite the odds.

Through its candid portrayal of the lives of Jessi, Blackswan, and Cravity, “K-Pop Idols” offers a nuanced perspective on what it truly means to be a K-pop star. It shows that behind the glossy music videos and electrifying performances, there is a world of hard work, struggle, and, ultimately, an unbreakable spirit that drives these young artists forward.