What Happened with Loona?
The recent turmoil within the K-pop group Loona has left many fans and industry insiders bewildered. As of now, Loona is still not officially disbanded, but considering the undercurrents of tension and the recent revelations, it's highly possible that the group could disband soon this year. Despite the members and fans wanting to continue the journey, the departure of Chuu Kim-Jiwoo, one of the most beloved members, signals a critical shift in how the group is perceived.
Chuu Kim-Jiwoo's Departure and the Agency's Injustices
When Dispatch, a popular South Korean news program, revealed the behind-the-scenes drama, it shook the entire K-pop industry. The announcement stated that Chuu was kicked out because of her "misbehavior," which included disrespecting staff and the agency, as well as spreading her anger and engaging in fights. However, the true nature of her departure was revealed to be a result of the extremely unfair treatment she and the other members faced at Blockberry Creative Entertainment, Loona’s management agency.
Chuu's personality, often described as cute and goofy, left impressions of a gentle and positive presence. Her departure was shocking, and many internet users found the news hard to comprehend until Chuu herself revealed the injustice she had experienced. She pointed out the severe misconduct of the agency, which treated her and the other 11 members unfairly.
The Treatment of Loona by Their Agency
Bothered by the same issues as its fellow group, Momoland, Blockberry Creative Entertainment treated Loona with a similar lack of equity. The agency failed to compensate the members for their hard work and dedication, despite the group debuting in 2016 and remaining active since. Members frequently went on starvation diets forced by the agency, without rest or leisure time. These harsh conditions contributed to the group's internal disarray and tension.
The 11 Girls vs. BBC Agency
After Chuu's departure and the disclosure of the agency's injustices, the remaining 11 members chose to seek justice. They filed a court case against BBC, hoping to reclaim their rightful pay and treatment. While the outcome of the case is unclear, the members are contemplating a temporary suspension of their activities as the situation remains highly stressful.
Understanding Chuu's Behavior
Chuu's "rude" behavior towards the agency and staff can be attributed to the immense pressure and exhaustion she and her fellow members faced. The life of a K-pop idol is not as glamorous as it appears. A combination of demanding schedules, intense training, and the harsh reality of the industry can push an individual to the breaking point. Chuu's outbursts were a result of holding back her pain for a long time, eventually unable to bear the abuse anymore.
The reality of the K-pop world is stark and unforgiving. Trainees and idols often face grueling conditions, both physically and mentally, to meet the industry's high standards. While some idols can shine and succeed, behind the scenes, many struggle with the harsh realities of the business. Dreaming of becoming an idol is one thing, but understanding the sacrifices and challenges is essential for those who aspire to join the industry.
As a K-pop fan since 2012, I want to share my insight to help others prepare themselves for the harsh realities. The journey to becoming a shining idol is undoubtedly hard and demanding. If you aspire to follow in their footsteps, be prepared to face and overcome numerous challenges.
Conclusion
The struggles of Loona and the revelation of the K-pop industry's dark side highlight the need for transparency and fairness in the industry. Fans often only see the shining stars, but it's crucial to understand the struggles behind the scenes. As a K-pop enthusiast, I urge everyone to support the members of Loona and the industry as a whole in their journey to navigate these complex and challenging times.