Fourth-Gen Girl Group Members Reveal The Scary Financial Reality Of K-Pop

Two former fourth-gen girl group members recently exposed the harsh financial reality of the K-Pop industry.

In the latest episode of ENA‘s survival show Undercover, cover singers and former girl group members appeared as contestants and shared some heartbreaking stories from their personal experiences.

Poster for “Undercover”

In particular, former GWSN member Seoryoung recalled her horrific career experience before taking the stage, revealing that the worsening financial situation of her agency led to the group getting completely abandoned.

Seoryoung

I debuted in 2018, but due to the company’s worsening situation, we were basically abandoned.

— Seoryoung

The audience members teared up hearing that the company’s neglect eventually turned into the group’s disbandment.

Hearing Seoryoung’s story, former IZ*ONE member-turned-soloist Kwon Eunbi, empathized with her, saying she knew precisely how Seoryoung felt.

Kwon Eunbi

Another contestant who appeared on the show was Yechan, who debuted twice with Awe5ome Baby in 2015 and Pink Fantasy in 2018. During her segment, Yechan revealed that during seven years of activity, she had zero income. To make ends meet, she worked multiple part-time jobs, including delivery services and factories. Yechan revealed that she is currently working at a barbecue restaurant while simultaneously juggling a music career.

Yechan

The two former idols are braving the rough waters of the industry despite their bitter experiences by showcasing their talents on Undercover. The music variety program involves participants reinterpreting original songs, competing to become the ultimate “cover” influencers. Since its premiere on June 12, the show has entered the top 10 list of major OTT platforms.