A heated discussion on the Korean online community TheQoo is drawing attention after users compared how major entertainment companies handle the education of idol trainees.
According to the post, JYP Entertainment is reportedly the only major agency that continues to closely monitor trainees’ academic performance. Trainees who fail to maintain acceptable grades may have their training suspended, and if their academic performance does not improve over time, they can reportedly be removed from the trainee program.
The policy does not require trainees to be top students or achieve exceptional grades. Instead, they are expected to maintain a normal level of academic performance and continue attending school while training.
The discussion contrasted JYP’s approach with practices at other agencies, particularly YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment, where many trainees and idols have historically left school at a young age to focus on training and debut preparations.
Several examples were cited from YG Entertainment. BABYMONSTER member Asa reportedly began training while still in elementary school and has stated that she only completed kindergarten. BLACKPINK members Lisa and Jennie were also mentioned, with netizens noting that both did not continue through the standard Korean high school system after entering YG.
Former and current YG artists such as members of iKON were also referenced. Some reportedly stopped attending school during middle school or after graduation from middle school in order to focus entirely on trainee life. WINNER was likewise mentioned as a group that experienced a culture where trainees often prioritized training over education.
SM Entertainment was also heavily discussed. Many netizens pointed to younger generations of idols who reportedly left school early while preparing for debut. Examples included members of rookie girl group Hearts2Hearts, as well as NCT Dream and aespa members such as Karina and Winter, who focused on training and entertainment activities instead of completing traditional high school education.
In contrast, JYP artists were highlighted for maintaining both their studies and trainee schedules. TWICE’s Nayeon, DAY6’s Young K, Wonder Girls members Yeeun and Hyerim, 2PM’s Taecyeon, GOT7’s Jay B, NMIXX’s Haewon, and members of Xdinary Heroes were all cited as examples of idols who continued their education while pursuing entertainment careers.
The discussion generated thousands of reactions from Korean netizens, many of whom praised JYP’s approach. Some commenters argued that completing at least high school should be considered the minimum requirement because not every trainee eventually debuts.
Others expressed concern about trainees who leave school at a young age but fail to achieve success as idols, saying they may face difficulties later when attempting to return to ordinary life. Several users noted that schools provide not only academic education but also opportunities to develop social skills, emotional growth, and life experience.
Some commenters specifically criticized SM Entertainment’s recent generations of trainees, claiming that earlier generations of idols typically completed arts high school or higher education, while newer trainees appear more likely to leave school before graduation.
Not everyone agreed with the criticism, however. Some argued that pursuing an idol career is a personal decision made with family support and that trainees often gain valuable real-world experience, language skills, and professional training that can help them later in life. Others noted that the entertainment industry offers opportunities that may be worth the risks for those who are fully committed to their dreams.
The debate ultimately sparked broader conversations about balancing education and entertainment careers, with many users concluding that agencies should do more to protect trainees’ futures, especially those who never make their debut.
As the K-pop industry continues to recruit younger talent, discussions about trainee welfare, education, and long-term career security remain increasingly important topics among fans and the general public.
Sources: theqoo
You must be logged in to post a comment.