The Dark Reality of K-pop Training
Former K-pop idol DPR IAN has bravely shared his traumatic experiences from the idol training system. The Korean-Australian artist opened up about the harsh realities he faced during his time as a trainee. His story sheds light on the intense pressure and strict regimens that shaped his early career in the K-pop industry.
The Brutal Reality of Training Days
The life of a K-pop trainee was far from the glamorous image portrayed to the public. DPR IAN revealed that trainees began their grueling schedule at 5 AM each day with non-stop practice sessions. The pressure was immense, with severe punishments for even minor infractions. Being just one minute late resulted in trainees having to kneel on the floor or sit in corners as timeout.
The exhausting routine often continued until 2 or 3 AM the next day, leaving little time for rest or personal life. This rigorous schedule was particularly challenging during what DPR IAN calls the “peak era” of slave contracts in the early 2010s. Many aspiring idols entered the system without fully understanding the demands they would face.
Mental Health Struggles in the Spotlight
The intense pressure of the K-pop industry significantly impacted DPR IAN’s mental health, leading to the development of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). He describes experiencing frequent shifts in personality and consciousness, often feeling disconnected from his actions and identity. These episodes made it incredibly difficult to maintain stability during his idol years.
DPR IAN explains that his condition would cause him to wake up feeling like a different person, with new likes, dislikes, and personality traits. The constant pressure and lack of control over these episodes made it challenging to maintain the perfect image expected of K-pop idols.
The Hidden Cost of Fame
The reality of the K-pop industry extends beyond just the physical demands. DPR IAN emphasizes that many aspiring idols don’t realize the true cost of pursuing their dreams. While many envision immediate success upon becoming an idol, the reality includes countless groups that never make it to the spotlight.
The system’s intense pressure and strict control mechanisms often left trainees feeling powerless and vulnerable. DPR IAN describes how the training environment created a cycle of trauma that affected not only his mental health but also his ability to cope with daily challenges.
Breaking Free and Finding Authenticity
Despite these challenges, DPR IAN transformed his negative experiences into valuable lessons. After leaving the traditional K-pop system, he co-founded Dream Perfect Regime, creating a space for authentic artistic expression. His journey from C-Clown’s Rome to an independent artist proves that success is possible while staying true to oneself.
Through DPR, he has established a platform where artists can express themselves genuinely without conforming to rigid industry standards. His experience has become a powerful testimony to the importance of maintaining artistic integrity and mental health in the entertainment industry.
The Evolution of K-pop Training
While DPR IAN acknowledges that conditions have improved since his time as a trainee, his story serves as a crucial reminder of the industry’s past practices. His experiences highlight the need for continued reform in the K-pop training system and greater attention to trainees’ mental health and well-being.
The True Cost of K-pop Dreams
The story of DPR IAN reveals the often-hidden side of the K-pop industry, where dreams of stardom come at a significant personal cost. His journey from trainee to independent artist demonstrates both the challenges and possibilities within the Korean entertainment industry.
What are your thoughts on the K-pop training system? How do you think the industry can better protect the mental health of aspiring idols? Share your perspective in the comments below.
