How does Kpop trainee debt work?

A trainee ends up with a debt of 600 million KRW (~518,037 USD) over eight years after being initially told he will debut right away. “The group will debut right away if you join”. These were the words that an entertainment company CEO told a trainee named Minjoon (a pseudonym).

Do JYP trainees have to pay debt?

No. The only time trainees under JYP have to pay back their debt if they don’t debut is if they don’t complete the whole duration of their contract. If you are let go or decide to leave when your contract is finished, you don’t have to pay back your debt.

Do Bighit trainees have to pay?

Yes, they pay for all your expenses as a trainee. If you are slightly older (17 or 18 ish) you may drop out of school and if you are younger you might go to a international/foreign language school or a school for performing arts (like many idols such as Jungkook and Jimin).

Do K-pop groups go into debt when they debut?

Unlike the Western music industry, in order to debut, K-Pop groups incur a lot of debt in their trainee days. From the cost of living, food, and practice space to everyday expenditures and pocket money, K-Pop trainees undergo a lot to maintain a budget.

What is it like to be a trainee in K-pop?

The journey to stardom often starts classes at night and live together while attending school. notably English, Japanese and Chinese. Korean idol trainee system is unique in the world” ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K-pop ). The trainee system is no joke. You’re really worked to the bone and there’s no room for crybabys.

Do famous Kpop idols make a lot of money?

A common misperception among Western fans is that famous Kpop idols must make loads of money. A hit song or two and you should be set for a long time, right? However, this is the furthest thing from reality. See, the Kpop world has a concept called “trainee debt” that is not present in the Western industry.

How much does it cost to produce a Kpop group?

K-Pop is expensive to produce. The groups are highly manufactured, and can require a team of managers, choreographers and wardrobe assistants, as well as years of singing lessons, dance training, accommodation and living expenses. The bill can add up to several hundred thousand dollars.