A new docuseries provides an up-close and personal glimpse into the lives and challenges faced by K-pop stars, shedding light on the real price of success in South Korea’s fiercely competitive music industry.
Apple TV+’s “K-Pop Idols” spotlights Jessi (Jessica Ho), a Korean American rapper who is charting a new course after parting ways with “Gangnam Style” creator Psy’s record label; the girl group Blackswan, striving for international fame but hindered by internal conflicts; and the rookie boy band Cravity, a nine-member ensemble attempting to establish itself after launching during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jessi has been active in the Korean music scene since her debut single in 2005, whereas Cravity represents a flashy newcomer endeavoring to define its unique style in a saturated market. Blackswan has existed for over a decade under various names and member lineups but is now trying to navigate its identity in its current form, which continues to evolve throughout the show.
South Korean cultural exports have surged in popularity over the past decade, with powerhouse groups like BTS and Blackpink dominating global music charts and K-drama series gaining widespread popularity on streaming services.
By following these artists as they embark on global tours, share intimate moments, and endure rigorous, hours-long training sessions, the series offers a deep dive into the high-stakes, multibillion-dollar industry that demands extraordinary standards from its young talents.
K-pop idols, many of whom begin their training as early as their teenage years, often face intense pressure from their strict management, a demanding work environment that has been linked to mental health issues within the industry. In recent years, several K-pop stars have tragically taken their own lives, leading to widespread grief among fans.
Mental Health Struggles
A key storyline focuses on the tension between Blackswan members Leia (Larissa Ayumi Cartes Sakata) and Fatou (Fatou Samba), which is sparked when Leia shares on social media that she is feeling bored during a social gathering at Fatou’s family home after the group’s first concert in Brussels.
Leia later explains that she found the gathering difficult because she missed her own family in Brazil, a challenge she discusses extensively throughout the series. She also opens up about her struggles with depression and the stigma associated with being vocal about mental health issues.
