“Are They Broke?” — Popular Idols’ “Sad” Activities Leave Netizens Heartbroken

For the most popular K-Pop idols, money does not appear to be an issue, as their sales and touring seem to be a massive source of revenue.

Let’s Take A Look At The Top 7 Wealthiest Female K-Pop Artists Of Our Time

On the other hand, many idols struggle to break even, with the “trainee debt” and ongoing fees only build and make it harder for idols to make money. Many popular idols have admitted to it taking years to get paid.

Former K-Pop Idol Reveals The Harsh Reality When It Comes To Idols Being Paid A Salary After Debuting

That being said, it is not surprising to hear of less popular idols resorting to part-time work to stay afloat.

Part-time jobs that Taehwan has done before

👕 Uniqlo
🏪 GS convenience store
🌙 Late night pojangmacha
🥐 Gontran Cherrier
🍴 Villa de Spicy

📱 231017 🫧 Live#VANNER #배너 #TAEHWAN #태환 pic.twitter.com/z8YkpJZ9v1

— heyo (@heyo_vvs) October 24, 2023

Recently, a trend has been noticed involving several idols that has left some feeling sad over the measures they resort to to make money.

On TikTok, when an individual goes live, viewers are able to give gifts with monetary value.

| TIkTok

Many K-Pop idols both in groups that are still technically active and that are disbanded have been spotted on TikTok live streaming. A popular creator on the platform recently discussed this in a video.

I see them every day. #kpopfyp #kpop #kpopstan #kpopidol

♬ original sound – DizZzyPop

Many of the idols mentioned in the comments, including Afterschool‘s Lizzy, Golden Child‘s Daeyeol, and Everglow, have netizens surprised and disappointed. Rather than disappointed in the idols, many are sadden that this seems to be the only way they can make money as entertainers at the moment.