Jennie, Onew, continuing idol 'health red flag'... The result of an overworked schedule

News of the suspension of activities due to deteriorating health of idols continues. This is because of mental and psychological problems. In addition, their unreasonable schedule also added a role. Controversy like this is repeated, and there are even concerns that it might rather put more force on the 'restriction on idol working hours' pending in the National Assembly.

BLACKPINK's Jenny was unable to attend the Melbourne concert in Australia on the 11th due to poor physical condition. On this day, YG Entertainment, the agency, said, "We apologize to the fans who came to the scene and cheered us on, and we ask for your understanding. We took action right away so that we could take it.”

BLACKPINK is a group that has various activities not only in Korea but also abroad. Starting with the Seoul performance in September of last year, they have already digested the schedule for 14 concerts in 7 cities in North America. On July 15th, following the performance in Paris, they will perform at the British music festival 'Hyde Park British Summertime Festival'. In addition, a US tour is scheduled, including New Jersey on the 12th and Las Vegas on the 16th.

In particular, Jenny recently attended the Cannes Film Festival in France through the HBO drama 'The Idol'. Fans poured out their worries and concerns because they managed a considerable schedule in a tight time frame.

There are idols like Jennie who complained of deteriorating health and eventually chose to stop their activities. SHINee's Onew showed a thin figure right after the comeback, causing great concern. On the 9th, SM Entertainment, Onew's agency, announced, "As Onew's condition continued to deteriorate, he received counseling and examinations, and was advised by medical staff that he needed stability and treatment."

"After careful discussion with Onew and the members, it was decided that Onew will not participate in this concert and album activities, and will take a break for the time being," he said. I will work hard so that I can work in a healthy way again.”

The activities of idols can be likened to 'one iron business'. This means that you have to row when the water comes in. Since we can't be active all year round, we work 'at the right time' for album releases and various events. This is why idols have unreasonable schedules. As a result, the problem of 'health red flag' is not a matter of a day or two.

In fact, Ive Jang Won-young's schedule in September last year received a lot of attention. Departure to Paris, France after Akaraka event, Yonsei University festival, participation in jewelry brand event, entry into Korea, Chungbuk National University festival, pre-recording of MC special stage, live broadcasting of music broadcasting, Ajou University festival, Sungkyunkwan University festival, fan signing event, departure to Paris, France again, bag brand event attend, etc. It was a schedule that lasted less than a week.

This is why concerns have been poured into high-intensity labor. Currently, an amendment to the Popular Culture and Arts Industry Act (aka 'Lee Seung-gi Act') has been proposed to the National Assembly. However, it will take time for the amendment to pass due to the fact that the voices of the industry have not been properly reflected and the controversy surrounding the working hours of minor idols. Especially. There was a strong opposition from the industry, saying that it is difficult for minor idols to work hard.

The K-pop industry eventually comes from the stable activities of idols or artists. Many point out that the environment for 'players' must be improved in order to grow the industry and create a stable market system. It's time for someone with a lot of influence in the industry to speak out about the need for balance, and any agency should come up with a proposal for improvement.

Reporter Yoon Jun-ho, Ten Asia delo410@tenasia.co.kr