Korean idol

Idols undergo extensive training in dance, vocal performance, and foreign language, and tend to represent a hybridized convergence of visuals, music, and fashion.

[1] Idols maintain a carefully curated public image and social media presence, and dedicate significant time and resources to building relationships with fans through concerts and meetups.

[2][3][4] Inspired by the heyday of MTV in the United States, Lee Soo-man, the founder of SM Entertainment set his sights on laying the foundation for the modern Korean pop music industry.

[13][14] Once a trainee enters the system, they are regulated in multiple aspects, including personal life, physical condition, and visual appearance.

[15] Former trainees have reported that they were required to go through plastic surgeries, such as a blepharoplasty or a rhinoplasty, in order to adhere to the acceptable Korean beauty standards.

In 2012, The Wall Street Journal reported that the cost of training one member of Girls' Generation under SM Entertainment was US$3 million.

[18] When trainees are finally chosen to debut in new groups, they will face a new set of personalities created by the company to cater to the entertainment market.

Each member of an idol group has their own character to play, and therefore an important part of their job duties is to maintain that temperament in any kind of exposure they may get.

[19] Korean Pop-culture has made a significant impact on the world, creating numerous opportunities for fans to unite and celebrate diversity.

A director of South Korean entertainment agency DSP Media stated that the company does share profit with the performers, but often little is left over after paying costs.

Members of groups are frequently retired and replaced with fresh trainees when their age or musical inclinations begin to pose a problem.

Such techniques have resulted in mass recognition abroad and helped to spark the Korean Wave, which benefits entertainment companies by broadening their audience.

[31] Over the years, Korean idols have gained fans from all over the world, and many entertainment companies have started to promote their artists and groups internationally.

[36] In some cases, these efforts have resulted in censorship; for example, "Miniskirt" by AOA was deemed sexually inappropriate to public TV shows and programs and was unable to be aired until the group modified their outfits and choreography.

Idols that do not perform in a sexually appealing way to their targeted demographic have been harassed; for example, Amber Liu has received criticism for her androgynous appearance and disregard for gender norms.