The entertainment industry, especially in K-Pop, has long been admired for its polished performers and world-class productions. Behind every successful idol are often years of rigorous training in trainee programs run by major entertainment companies. While these systems are meant to shape future stars, they have increasingly come under criticism for breaking dreams before they even start.
Many young hopefuls, sometimes as young as 12 or 13, audition to become trainees with dreams of making it big. They envision themselves performing on global stages, winning awards, and gaining millions of fans. However, the reality of being a trainee is far harsher than many realize.
Once selected, trainees undergo grueling schedules that include long hours of singing, dancing, and media training. They often balance these demanding routines with schoolwork, leaving little time for personal life or rest. The pressure to constantly improve and compete with other trainees is relentless.
A Cutthroat Environment
One of the toughest aspects of the trainee system is the fierce competition. Only a small fraction of trainees actually debut as idols. Even those who show great promise can be dropped without warning if they don’t meet the company’s expectations.
Many trainees spend years in these programs without ever seeing their dreams come true. Some endure up to a decade of training, only to be told they’re not ready for debut. This rejection can be devastating, leaving young people with shattered confidence and no clear path forward.
The demanding trainee lifestyle takes a toll on both mental and physical health. Trainees often face intense scrutiny over their appearance and performance. They may be told to lose weight or change their look to fit the industry’s beauty standards.
The stress of constant evaluations and fear of being cut leads many trainees to experience anxiety and depression. Some struggle with self-esteem issues as they are repeatedly compared to others and told they aren’t good enough.
Trainees must often give up normal teenage experiences, including attending school regularly, spending time with friends, and pursuing other interests. Their lives become entirely focused on becoming idols, which can leave them with limited options if they don’t succeed.
Those who leave the trainee system may find it difficult to rejoin mainstream education or start new careers because of the time they sacrificed.
Moving Toward Change
There are growing calls for reforms to the trainee system. Fans and mental health advocates are urging entertainment companies to provide better support for trainees, including counseling services and more reasonable training schedules.
Some companies are also beginning to emphasize mental health and offer creative freedom to young talents. Trainees deserve a system that nurtures their growth and well-being instead of breaking their spirits.
While the road to becoming an idol will always be challenging, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of young people’s dreams and health. Change is needed to ensure that future stars can rise without being crushed by the very system meant to help them shine.
