With fast turnaround times, a high burnout rate, and intense training that is possibly endangering K-pop idols' health, we at Dojeon Media want to know: "Is the K-pop model sustainable?" We break down some key elements in the "K-pop model" to see if K-pop is in it for the long run!
Questions have arisen about the long-term viability of the current K-pop system, with its intense training, rapid debut cycles, and high burnout rates among idols. Discussions focus on the need for more sustainable practices.
The more I have looked into K-pop during my time in Korea, and the longer I have worked in the entertainment industry, I have concluded that everything in K-pop is fast, and it has something to do with how oversaturated and competitive the market is.
Fans have come to expect at least 2 comebacks per year from groups, not to mention all of the other schedules (variety shows, end-of-year performances, etc.) that the more popular groups have. I think the K-pop industry has created a system for its artists where burnout is inevitable (if you do it long enough and at the same pace with no significant breaks). Or sadly, you will just get replaced or forgotten about. Unless you reach a certain level of fame and can have some say over the pace of your schedule, I imagine it gets exhausting after 7 or so years (not even including time spent as a trainee).
I can't imagine the stress, especially for the more introverted idols. I feel so bad when there are statements saying they have to withdraw due to anxiety, but idols have to go back to performing and putting on a show and a positive front for the cameras. So can the K-pop industry be sustainable in the future?
Let's take a look at some of the factors why I think that the K-pop industry is not sustainable in the future:
Rigorous Training and Management: K-pop trainees undergo an extremely intensive training process, often for several years, before debuting as an idol. This training installs strong discipline, work ethic, and coping mechanisms to handle the intense demands of the idol lifestyle. K-pop entertainment companies also tend to have very regimented management systems to oversee and support their artists. For example, take a look at Ruka's (BAYBYMONSTER) 10-year journey from trainee to debut!
Tightly-Knit Team Dynamics: K-pop groups are typically comprised of multiple members who experience the idol lifestyle together. This provides a built-in support system and sense of camaraderie that can help idols cope with the pressures they face. The team dynamic is a core part of the K-pop model. However, most of the time this is just fronted and members in any band (worldwide) tend to have negative dynamics with other members.
Protective Fanbase: K-pop fans, known as "fandoms", tend to be extremely dedicated and protective of their idols. Idols receive a tremendous amount of emotional support and encouragement from their fanbase, which can help mitigate feelings of isolation and burnout.
I feel like burnout in less than 10 years for artists who are at least semi-successful isn’t normal in the Western music industry (I can’t speak to other industries). I know that fans like to complain about mismanagement and lack of company promotion (Which I have written about in a previous article), which is absolutely a factor in idols deciding to not renew contracts/leave the industry/focus on other career goals like acting, but I also feel like some of them are probably just tired of it all, and therefore I think with this current rate, the K-pop industry without significant changes can be sustainable in the future.
Let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
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