Introduction
K-pop is a genre of music that has taken the world by storm. With its catchy beats, colorful music videos, and choreographed dance moves, K-pop has gained a massive following worldwide. However, becoming a K-pop idol is not an easy feat. There are many restrictions that one must adhere to in order to become a K-pop idol. In this article, we will discuss the various restrictions that are in place in the K-pop industry.
The Age Restriction
One of the biggest restrictions for becoming a K-pop idol is age. Most K-pop agencies prefer to debut idols who are between the ages of 16 and 21. This is because K-pop idols have to undergo rigorous training before they can debut, which can take several years. As a result, agencies prefer to debut idols who are younger, as they have more time to train and develop their skills.
The Height and Weight Restrictions
Another restriction for becoming a K-pop idol is height and weight. Most K-pop agencies have strict guidelines regarding the height and weight of their idols. They prefer idols who are tall and slim, as it is believed that this body type looks good on camera and on stage. As a result, many aspiring idols go through intense diets and exercise regimes to meet these requirements.
The Appearance Restrictions
Appearance is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies prefer idols who have symmetrical facial features, clear skin, and straight teeth. In addition, many agencies have strict rules regarding hair color and style, makeup, and clothing. As a result, many aspiring idols go through extensive cosmetic procedures to meet these requirements.
The Education Restrictions
Education is also a restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most K-pop agencies prefer idols who have at least a high school diploma, as education is seen as a sign of intelligence and discipline. In addition, many agencies require their idols to continue their education while they are promoting, so that they can have a backup plan in case their careers do not work out.
The Language Restrictions
Language is also an important restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most K-pop idols are required to be fluent in both Korean and English, as this allows them to communicate with fans from all over the world. In addition, many agencies require their idols to learn other languages, such as Japanese or Mandarin, if they want to promote in those countries.
The Behavior Restrictions
Behavior is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies have strict rules regarding their idols’ behavior in public and on social media. Idols are expected to be role models for their fans, and any misbehavior can damage their reputation and career. As a result, many idols are required to attend etiquette classes and media training.
The Dating Restrictions
Dating is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies have strict rules regarding their idols’ dating lives, as they believe that dating can distract idols from their careers. Many agencies have dating bans in place for their idols, which can last for several years after their debut.
The Privacy Restrictions
Privacy is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Idols are expected to maintain a certain level of privacy, and any personal information or scandals can damage their reputation and career. As a result, many idols are required to live in dormitories with their fellow group members and are not allowed to have personal cell phones or social media accounts.
The Training Restrictions
Training is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies require their trainees to undergo rigorous training programs that can last for several years. Trainees are expected to attend daily dance, vocal, and language classes, as well as participate in regular auditions and evaluations. As a result, many trainees sacrifice their social lives and education to focus on their training.
The Financial Restrictions
Financial restrictions are also a major factor for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies require their trainees to pay for their own training and living expenses, which can be very expensive. In addition, many idols are required to pay back the cost of their training and debut through their earnings once they debut.
The Mental Health Restrictions
Mental health is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. The K-pop industry is known for its intense pressure and competition, which can take a toll on idols’ mental health. Many idols struggle with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues as a result of the industry’s demands.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a K-pop idol is not an easy feat. There are many restrictions that one must adhere to in order to become a successful K-pop idol. From age and appearance restrictions to behavior and dating bans, aspiring idols must be prepared to sacrifice a lot in order to pursue their dreams. However, despite these restrictions, the K-pop industry continues to grow and gain popularity worldwide.
What are the rules to become a KPOP Idol?
In order to become a K-pop star, one must first be scouted and signed by a major record label as a trainee. Only after this can they potentially be chosen to debut as a solo artist or as a member of a group. Most K-pop stars are quite young, with some being as young as 15 years old and considered the youngest member, or “maknae,” of the group.
What is forbidden for K-pop idols?
In the K-pop industry, the significance of fans and their satisfaction is much more critical compared to other music industries. To preserve their image of being relatable, K-pop agencies prohibit their idols from dating.
What is the 1 rule of K-pop?
According to Tássia Assis on Twitter, a rule of Kpop is to never include the exact number of members in your group’s name. This was tweeted on July 18, 2022.
Can a 12 year old be a K-pop idol?
Young individuals, referred to as “trainees,” sign agreements with management companies to pursue their dreams of becoming K-pop stars. Some trainees sign these contracts as early as age 12 or 13, and it can take up to ten years for the agency to prepare them for a debut performance on stage, as stated by the previous leader of the Korea Entertainment Law Society.
What weight do you have to be a K-pop idol?
Regardless of age or height, individuals were mandated to weigh no more than 47kg (7st 6lb or 104lb). A weekly weigh-in occurred where the trainer analyzed the individual’s body and publicly announced their weight. If someone exceeded the defined weight, their food would be limited.
Is there an age limit for K-pop?
There are no limitations or barriers based on a person’s gender, nationality, or age.
The Competition Restrictions
Competition is another major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. The competition to become a trainee or debut as an idol is incredibly fierce, with thousands of hopefuls auditioning every year. Many trainees are let go by their agencies before they can debut, and even those who do debut face intense competition from other groups and solo artists in the industry.
The Workload Restrictions
Workload is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Once idols debut, they are expected to promote their music through appearances on TV shows, concerts, and other events. This can involve long hours of rehearsals and performances, as well as frequent travel. As a result, many idols struggle with exhaustion and burnout.
The Contract Restrictions
Contracts are also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. Most agencies require their idols to sign lengthy contracts that can last for several years. These contracts often restrict idols’ freedom to pursue other opportunities or leave their agency before the end of the contract period. In addition, many contracts have strict rules regarding earnings and profit-sharing.
The Fan Interaction Restrictions
Fan interaction is also a major restriction for becoming a K-pop idol. While idols are expected to interact with fans through social media and fan meetings, there are strict rules regarding how much personal information they can share with fans. Idols are often discouraged from forming close relationships with fans or engaging in any behavior that could be perceived as romantic.
The Cultural Restrictions
Cultural restrictions are also a major factor for becoming a K-pop idol. The K-pop industry is heavily influenced by Korean culture, and idols are expected to adhere to cultural norms and customs. This can include bowing to elders, using formal language, and following traditional dress codes. In addition, many agencies require their idols to learn about Korean history and culture to better promote themselves in the industry.