The Harsh Reality Of Not Signing With A K-Pop Label, According To A Popular “Free Agent” Idol

In the highly structured world of K-Pop, idols are typically tied to entertainment companies that handle everything from promotions to logistics. However, some choose to go independent, experiencing both the benefits and challenges of being a free agent.

Wheein is one such idol who is currently not signed with any K-Pop label. After debuting under RBW Entertainment as part of MAMAMOO, she later signed with The Live to manage her solo activities. However, Wheein terminated her contract with the agency last August, meaning she has been a free agent for several months now.

| RBW

As such, she has had to navigate the industry on her own ever since. Recently, Wheein appeared on KBS 2TV’s The Seasons with Lee Young Ji and opened up about what it’s like to be a free agent. Her expert opinion? There are massive pros and cons to being a free agent in K-Pop.

When it comes to the pros, Wheein mentioned that the most glaring one has to be the financial independence. Without a company taking a cut, she gets to keep all her earnings. For an established artist like Wheein — who is backed by her enduring popularity and a strong fandom — this can be a major incentive.

First off, the best part is the earnings. It’s all my money. That’s definitely a plus.

— Wheein

#WheeIn album sales on Circle Chart

1. In The Mood – 81,884
2. WHEE – 81.610
3. Redd – 76,761
4. Soar – 24,524

Total — 264,779 copies

pic.twitter.com/i61LYnw2Hm

— mamamoo files (@mamamoofiles) November 23, 2023

However, she also pointed out the downsides. Without agency support, even basic tasks like renting a car must be handled personally. From scheduling to managing projects, everything requires direct involvement, which can be overwhelming. This becomes even harder for stars who have been under a label their whole career previously, as they are not used to having do such tasks.

I have to handle everything on my own. Even something as simple as transportation [to an event] — I have to rent my own car. That part isn’t very convenient

— Wheein

| @whee_inthemood/Instagram

Wheein also discussed what she looks for in a potential company, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. While she loves making music, she values having time to rest, something she couldn’t always do under a company’s schedule. This seems to make for another downside — when you’re a free agent, you can work at your own pace.

I just really want a company that guarantees a good work-life balance. I love making albums and working on music, but I also believe that taking breaks is just as important. In the past, I wasn’t able to do that, so now I treasure it even more.

— Wheein

Whether more idols follow this path remains to be seen, but Wheein’s journey offers insight into both the rewards and difficulties of going solo in a competitive industry.