While many fans see the life of a K-Pop idol through rose-colored glasses, fans are starting to realize that an idol’s life and career path is not easy at all. Fans have expressed concern, especially about the differences in treatment of male and female K-Pop stars.
Fans drew attention to the fact that many expectations of female idols compared to male idols, from how their music is perceived, to the constant criticism of their actions.
As a female K-Pop idol, one person who knows everything about K-Pop life is former MOMOLAND member Daisy, now known as Yoo Jung Ahn. She recently appeared on a podcast where she talks about her time in the group, cultural appropriation issues, and much more.
During the podcast, the host asked Daisy if there was a difference between being in a boy and girl group.
Although Daisy explained that she did not know about her experiences of being in a boy group, she believed that there were major differences due to the attitudes of Korean society.
More to do with our society in general and how women are viewed in general, not even just in K-Pop, just the way the world views women. I think there were some injustice things or things that could’ve made people uncomfortable.
— Daisy
In particular, she pointed out some experiences that girl group members may have had in the past, which may be very different from male idols.
In K-Pop, female idols are exposed to some uncomfortable situations that they don’t want to be in.
— Daisy
This isn’t the first time this type of experience has been shared. Idol Ailee revealed that a senior idol once asked if she wanted to retire because she gained weight. Many fans believe that female idols are judged more on their weight than male idols.
Host David Tizzard later pointed out that in addition to the gender roles assigned to many women in Korea, there are different levels of expectations and high standards for beauty.
For Daisy, she believed what had happened in K-Pop was a reflection of what was happening in society about the treatment of male and female idols, but she seems to be on the rise in the industry.
They (female idols) are put on a stage for everyone to look at. They get their pictures taken, and they never know when they’re being photographed, or videos are being taken of them. People really like to take pictures of every single part of their body and talk about it.
— Daisy
This isn’t the first time the issue of gender inequality has been raised in both the K-Pop and Korean entertainment industries.
Both male and female idols are thought to experience discrimination. This podcast examines many studies, inequalities, and double standards on beauty standards and even wages.
You can listen to the entire podcast below.
