It is not surprising to hear that idols have worked before, as not all stars come from money, and the training process can be expensive. Even after their debut, some idols must work to support themselves and continue pursuing their dreams.
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However, some jobs held before and after their idol careers have attracted negative attention for various reasons. Here are some trainees whose non-idol careers were considered controversial.
1. Honey Popcorn
In March 2018, the three-membered girl group Honey Popcorn debuted.
While all of the members had previous experience as J-Pop idols, their debut was controversial, as all the members worked as adult film actresses. The group has been on hiatus, and the members have worked in various careers since.
2. The Kindom’s Hwon
In June 2023, The KingDom‘s Hwon was accused by a verified account of ghosting them after sex and working at a host bar.
The account followed up with screenshotted messages claiming that Hwon had reached out to them to ask the posts to be taken down and promised to meet with them. GF Entertainment released a statement saying legal action would be taken, but there have since been no updates.
3. Nature‘s Haru
Nature’s silent disbandment was confirmed after the discovery of member Haru working at a host bar before it was officially announced.
After the initial videos of Haru at her new job circulated, it was only three months later that she announced that she had quit her job.
4. SM Rookie Shohei
While this may not seem controversial, during his time as an SM Rookie, Shohei, who is set to debut as a member of SM Entertainment‘s upcoming trot group, was alleged to have worked at McDonald’s.
However, Shohei was criticized not only for being older than most trainees at 26 but also mocked and criticized over his past work experience, leading many to come to his defense.
5. BaBa’s Seungha
After spending a short time as a member of BaBa, ex-member Seungha turned to adult videos, filming more than 40 in less than three months.
Her current career could be considered controversial as well, though she has since retired from working as an adult actress.
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