Feb 9 • 17:45 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

'I dreamed of becoming a K-pop star, but I was a victim of a scam'

A young woman shares her experience of being scammed while pursuing her dream of becoming a K-pop star in South Korea.

As the popularity of K-pop continues to soar globally, it has drawn countless young aspirants to South Korea, where they seek opportunities to break into the competitive music industry. However, this sector, often populated by various training agencies, is fraught with risks such as scams that prey on vulnerable individuals. The article recounts the story of a young foreign student who hoped to achieve stardom but instead fell victim to a fraudulent scheme that exploited her ambitions.

The case highlights a broader issue within the K-pop training landscape, where regulatory gaps can leave aspiring artists unprotected. Many young individuals are lured by promises of fame and success, but instead find themselves in precarious situations, with no legal recourse. Through this girl's story, the article illustrates the dark side of the glamorous K-pop dream, emphasizing the need for better oversight and protection for international trainees who arrive in South Korea.

The K-pop industry, characterized by its complex blend of music and performance, needs reform to ensure that the path to success does not come at the cost of exploitation. As the allure of K-pop continues to grow, attention must be given to the stories of those who have suffered from dishonest practices in pursuit of their dreams. The article serves as a cautionary tale for those looking to follow in similar footsteps while prompting a reevaluation of how the industry operates.

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