The K-Pop industry was recently rocked by shocking revelations regarding the treatment of young trainees by Source Music, the agency behind the popular girl group NewJeans. The issue came to light when Minji, a member of NewJeans, and her mother publicly shared their harrowing experiences. These revelations have raised serious questions about the industry’s practices and the responsibilities of entertainment agencies towards their trainees.

What Did Minji and Her Mother Reveal?

Minji’s mother disclosed in an interview with Sports World on July 24, 2024, the intense pressure and challenging conditions her daughter faced while training under Source Music. Minji, who showed a strong interest in academics, was often caught in a difficult situation, balancing her rigorous training schedule with her studies. Her mother recounted how Minji would return from late-night training sessions around 2 AM, only to prepare for school a few hours later. There were times when Minji waited outside her school gates as early as 6 AM, having had no sleep at all.

Despite Minji’s dedication to her education, Source Music suggested she discontinue her studies. They recommended that Minji should not enroll in high school, proposing instead that she attend an arts school. This alternative, however, posed its own set of challenges. The entrance exams for such schools were imminent, adding further stress. Nonetheless, Minji managed to pass her exams, graduating from Hanlim Arts High School.

Why Did Source Music Face Backlash?

Netizens and fans expressed their outrage over Source Music’s apparent disregard for Minji’s future. Many pointed out that pushing her to drop out of school without any guarantee of a debut was highly irresponsible. The public reaction was strong, with many criticizing the company for their lack of empathy and foresight. Comments on various social media platforms highlighted the concern that Minji could have been left with only a middle school education if her career as an idol did not materialize.

The outcry was not limited to Minji’s situation alone. This incident has cast a spotlight on the broader issue of how young trainees are treated in the K-Pop industry. It has raised important questions about the balance between training for a potential career in entertainment and ensuring that young individuals have access to education and personal development opportunities.

How Did the Public and Other Artists React?

The public’s reaction was overwhelmingly negative towards Source Music. Many people shared their disbelief and anger on social media, questioning how a company could push a young person towards such a precarious path.

Additionally, the issue caught the attention of other artists and public figures. GFRIEND’s Yuju posted on Instagram, subtly addressing the situation and showing support. There was also significant backlash against HYBE, the parent company of Source Music, with fans calling for greater accountability and transparency in their dealings with young artists.

NewJeans’ Minji has faced various challenges, not just from her agency but also from public scrutiny. She once went viral for a comment during a live broadcast where she mentioned she didn’t know what kalguksu (a type of Korean noodle soup) was, which led to a year of harassment and misunderstandings online. Minji addressed the issue in an apology letter, explaining her side and expressing regret over the incident.

What’s Next for Source Music and the Industry?

The allegations against Source Music have sparked a broader conversation about the practices of K-Pop agencies. Fans and industry watchers are calling for reforms to ensure that young trainees are treated with respect and given the opportunity to pursue their education alongside their training.

This situation underscores the need for the industry to adopt more supportive and balanced approaches. Ensuring that young talents have a secure and comprehensive education is crucial. Moving forward, it is imperative for entertainment companies to recognize the importance of nurturing both the professional and personal development of their trainees.

So, the revelations about Source Music’s treatment of Minji have highlighted significant issues within the K-Pop industry. The public’s response demonstrates a clear demand for change, advocating for the rights and well-being of young artists. It remains to be seen how Source Music and other agencies will respond to these calls for better practices and greater responsibility.