TXT Members Soobin and Taehyun Discuss the Harsh Realities of K-Pop, Reveal They Were ‘Beaten Up’ During Training

TXT Members Soobin and Taehyun Discuss Traumatic Trainee Experiences

In a candid revelation, TXT’s Soobin and Taehyun have shared their troubling experiences of physical abuse during their time as trainees. Describing the harsh realities they faced, the two members opened up about how choreographers resorted to physical punishment as they struggled to master challenging dance routines.

Details of Their Experience

During a recent Weverse livestream, Soobin, 24, the group’s leader, recounted the difficult conditions they faced shortly after beginning their training. He described how, at a young age, both he and Taehyun were abruptly instructed to learn a complex dance routine from Seventeen after just a week or two of minimal training.“They told us to learn it ourselves by watching the video, ”Soobin mentioned, referring to their attempts to grasp the choreography by slowing down the tutorial footage.

Despite their efforts, Soobin remarked that their performances did not meet the expected standards.“It seemed really tough, so it was a given that we wouldn’t dance it well.”Unfortunately, when they struggled, the choreographers responded with “repeated beatings”rather than guidance, a fact Taehyun corroborated during the livestream by confirming that both of them were physically struck during their lessons.

An Industry in Transition

Even with these harrowing experiences, Soobin reassured viewers that the use of corporal punishment has since been abolished within the K-pop industry.“They had physical punishments back then, but if they physically punish someone now, they’d get in huge trouble, ”he clarified, highlighting the strides made in trainee welfare standards over the years.

Fan Reactions and Industry Discussion

The duo’s revelations ignited a wave of anger and discussion among fans, many expressing outrage over the notion that young aspiring entertainers could be subjected to such treatment. Numerous supporters praised Soobin’s bravery in sharing these experiences while still under contract with BigHit Music, the company’s proactive stance on artist welfare being scrutinized amidst these disclosures.

Industry experts note that the rigorous training and stringent schedules are a staple in K-pop, where many young talents dedicate years to refining their skills. However, the accounts from Soobin and Taehyun starkly contrast the polished narratives that agencies like BigHit publicly champion. As of now, the agency has not released a formal comment addressing these serious allegations.

The Call for Change

As conversations surrounding the welfare of idols advance, the testimonies from Soobin and Taehyun contribute to a larger movement advocating for transparent training protocols and enhanced protections for young artists. Their courage in sharing these personal stories underscores the crucial need for safeguarding the rights of trainees as K-pop’s global presence continues to evolve.