Increased Incidents of Injuries and Exhaustion Among Rising Stars

Courtesy of Belift Lab

A growing number of female K-pop artists are taking breaks from their activities due to health issues and injuries attributed to their demanding schedules and strict diets. These issues highlight the pressures faced by idols in the K-pop industry.

Woonhee, a member of the rookie girl group Illit under Belift Lab, recently stopped her activities due to a foot injury. Despite her enthusiasm to continue performing, her agency announced last week that her recovery would be prioritized, and her schedule would be adjusted accordingly. However, just a day later, Woonhee was seen performing at the Weverse Con Festival in Incheon, singing while seated. 

▲ Illit / Courtesy of Belift Lab

Earlier this month, Ning Ning of the popular group aespa withdrew from a concert due to dehydration and exhaustion. On the morning of the June 2 concert, SM Entertainment announced that Ning Ning had been hospitalized after a rehearsal and advised to rest.

The health challenges faced by K-pop idols have been linked to intense dieting and demanding training schedules. According to a former member of a K-pop girl group who spoke on the condition of anonymity, maintaining a weight below 47 kilograms is a common requirement, with managers closely monitoring diets. The former idol noted that during promotional campaigns, sleep is often limited to less than five hours per night, and the pressures have likely increased due to more frequent overseas engagements. 

▲ aespa / Courtesy of SM EntertainmentWinter, another member of aespa, underwent surgery for a collapsed lung in April and resumed activities with the group just over a month later. Similarly, Hyein of NewJeans is currently on a break after injuring her foot during a rehearsal in April, coinciding with the group’s promotion of their new EP, “How Sweet.”

Industry insiders point to the intense pressure on K-pop groups, especially those from smaller agencies, to generate profit quickly. An entertainment company official noted that significant financial investments are made in K-pop groups, and success is often required from their debut. This pressure necessitates participation in every possible musical activity and promotional event to secure financial stability and fan engagement.

Sayart 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com