Can a Fellow Filipino Join K-pop?

Yes, it is possible for a fellow Filipino to join the K-pop industry, but the journey is far from straightforward. K-pop remains one of the most competitive and demanding industries in the world, and the path to stardom is riddled with challenges and complexities. This article will explore the realities of becoming an idol, particularly for individuals from the Philippines, and provide insights into the potential prospects and hurdles.

Growing the Dream

K-pop idols are usually selected and trained at a young age, typically starting their journey when they are 16-17 years old. This intense training period can last up to 10 to 12 hours a day, and it includes rigorous physical training, dance, and vocal exercises. Idols are also subjected to strict monitoring in terms of their daily routines and interactions, with limited personal freedom. The goal of such intensive training is to produce world-class performers who can represent the group and the company's brand.

The Reality Check

While the allure of K-pop might seem enticing, the reality is harsh. Companies like SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, and HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment) invest heavily in their trainees, so these individuals must not only stand out but also prove their worth. Soaring to the heights of success, as with groups like BTS and Blackpink, requires extraordinary talent, dedication, and hard work. The road to stardom is filled with variables, and even the most promising trainees may find themselves facing the harsh consequences of failure.

Life in the K-pop Industry

Imagine starting as a 17-year-old Filipino with just a few years of your senior high school behind you. You spend the next couple of years undergoing intensive training, racking up the required number of hours for each dance and vocal performance. Then, at 20 years old, you debut and are faced with intense competition, trying to make an impact in the rapidly evolving K-pop landscape. This is a highly competitive environment, and the pressure to perform is immense. Several factors can work against your success:

Debut Window: Your debut window is likely to be around 0.5 to 1 year, during which you must establish a fan base and prove your potential. Failure during this critical period can be a death blow to your career. Fast-Moving Industry: The K-pop industry is very dynamic, with new groups constantly emerging. If you fail to hit the ground running, you may be quickly overshadowed by newer talent. Earnings and Investment: Upon debut, a significant portion of your earnings will go back to investors who funded your training and initial career expenses. The remaining funds are typically shared among the group members, which may not be substantial in terms of living standards in South Korea. Short Career Span: Even if you become successful, your career life is likely to be short. By the time you hit your late 30s, you may already be considered irrelevant, and the industry's rapid turnover means you will need to earn as much as possible while you are in the spotlight.

Beyond the Spotlight

While the K-pop world offers the allure of fame and fortune, it is important to consider the flip side of the coin. If your career does not take off, you may face numerous challenges. Returning to a regular academic life might be difficult, as you may have taken a break from school during your training. Alternatively, you might have to start working, but with the limited skills acquired from the industry, finding employment in the working world is challenging. In fact, many former idols find themselves in low-skill jobs, especially if they do not gain substantial fame.

Realistic and Caitalistic

The media often portrays the K-pop industry as glamorous and lucrative, but the harsh reality is that the earnings and lifestyle do not always meet the hype. A regular 9 to 5 job with a stable income and career growth might seem less exciting, but it is also a more realistic path for many individuals. The decision to pursue a career in K-pop should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges and the potential consequences of failure.