
Yugyeom of GOT7 Shares Financial Challenges During Pandemic
Yugyeom, a member of the popular K-pop group GOT7, recently opened up about facing financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing how these challenges arose despite the group’s notable success during that period.
Insights from Billboard’s Artist Spotlight
During an enlightening interview at the University of Southern California, which was part of Billboard’s Artist Spotlight series, Yugyeom reflected on his personal experiences and offered advice to students navigating their own challenges.
The Struggles of a Breadwinner
Yugyeom revealed that he had no solo projects to rely on during the pandemic, leaving him dependent on group activities for income. As he is the primary financial supporter for his family, this situation led to significant monetary concerns for him.
“Financially, I’m the breadwinner of the family right now, but there was a time when I didn’t have any money. During the pandemic, I didn’t have any work. I was always looking at my bank account, ”he said.
Fans React to Shocking News
This revelation surprised many fans, given GOT7’s impressive comebacks in 2020, such as their EP Dye and studio album Breathe of Love: Last Piece, which set sales records. They expressed confusion over how financial difficulties could arise, especially since GOT7 was signed with JYP Entertainment, a powerhouse in the K-pop industry.
“Did JYP scam them? When the pandemic hit, they still had a comeback, and that was one of their highest sales, ”one user wrote.“JYP also restocked their old albums, and YG wrote many famous GOT7 songs, so he should get royalties.”
Finding New Directions
In response to the challenges he faced, Yugyeom turned to his passion for creating music and choreographing dance routines with friends, which ultimately helped him adapt and transition to AOMG after departing from JYP Entertainment in 2021.
The Future of GOT7
Despite the change in contracts, it’s important to note that GOT7 has not disbanded. After concluding their contracts with JYP in 2021, the group continued to work together, even with members joining different agencies. Their latest mini-album WINTER HEPTAGON was released on January 20.
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