And why does it have so many fans and views? I don't think I know anyone who listens to it and the Americans that apparently do I highly doubt they understand Korean.
It's really fucking weird. And some of it even seems directed towards American viewers.
I guess so. Also, the thing is, we know this. We actually know about these things and people still fantard about these people. Like sure, the fact they ALL have eating disorders, get plastic surgeries galore (then a bunch get botched...), etc., but like UWU, they are so amazing.
From time to time, one of them kills themselves and toxic fans badmouthing them get the blame. But I will be honest, being constantly broke, starving, sleep deprived, simultaneously being forced in 24/7 contact with your coworkers while banned from being close to anyone else, being forced to change your looks, get mentally abused by management every day, etc. probably result in mental health so bad it's unfair to blame people talking shit about you.
Sure, it probably doesn't feel nice. But it happens to many people in many industries, but having a good meal, sleep and relaxing time with people you actually love fixes a lot.
That's WAY beyond the "price of fame", makes the casting couch system look like toddlerville, and the "company store" system has always been pure, unadulterated evil. At least be forthright about your slavery, and be responsible for the welfare of your slaves.
They're in the territory of terrible pet owners, and kpop sounds no better than those awful children's beauty contests and dog shows.
They don't even do it to get their own music out there. They get everything handed to them, from music, to dance, to fashion, to the persona they have to portray.
I mean, even if it was their own art, it would be hell. But apparently, when young people audition for these companies, sometimes they don't even end up doing the art form they wanted.
Let's say, I audition to become an actress. They see me and some agent says nah, I should be in a k-pop band. That's that, I either accept that, train and suffer and all, then maaaaaybe possibly I get allowed some acting years later down the line on top of the band. But if I refuse, then I get nothing.
Well, they probably get fed the usual nonsense like "you have to suffer for your art". Well, no, it's that suffering is supposed to help produce good art, by giving the artist the life experience and the emotional growth that feeds true art.
But then, look at what they did to Elvis. Though what you describe is more like the Jackson 5 on steroids and without benefit of blood relationships.
Dan "Get her in the Van" Schneider would like to know your location.