Impact of World Tours on Idols’ Mental and Physical Health Deterioration

Throughout 2023, BLACKPINK embarked on an extensive world tour, marking numerous remarkable achievements. However, the members encountered challenges concerning both their physical and mental wellbeing.

Similar struggles have been reported by other girl groups. Recently, aespa’s Giselle announced her absence from “Knowing Bros” due to health complications. Following this, SM Entertainment confirmed her withdrawal from the “2023 Governors Ball.”

A number of other artists under SM Entertainment, including Red Velvet’s Joy and SHINee’s Onew, have also stepped back from their commitments due to health concerns. Joy shared her worries about her fans, known as Luvies, expressing, “I’ve felt heavy-hearted thinking about the Luvies who are anxious and weary during this indefinite wait,” adding that it was challenging to prioritize her own health initially but she is now managing well thanks to the understanding of her fellow members and the support from the company.

Impact on Physical Health

The demands of preparing for concert tours are extremely taxing, requiring both intense training and lengthy rehearsal periods. Additionally, idols are often subjected to strict dieting to maintain their physical aesthetics.

blackpink rose outfit — Concerns have arisen regarding BLACKPINK’s Rosé and her visible physical decline

Frequent practice can lead to injuries like sprained ankles or more severe internal issues. As physical challenges accumulate, they can adversely affect an idol’s mental health.

Intensive schedules add more strain with little recovery time due to overlapping practice, recording sessions, and touring commitments.

Additionally, factors such as jet lag and environmental changes can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, leading to prolonged distress.

One potential solution is hiring nutritionists to travel with idols on private flights; however, this service can be quite expensive, potentially costing up to 700 million won annually.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

In July 2019, TWICE’s Mina had to withdraw from the group’s tour due to her health. Subsequently, on July 10, her management announced her withdrawal from various tour dates due to ongoing health issues.

JYP Entertainment disclosed that Mina was grappling with severe anxiety and insecurities, necessitating considerable treatment. This announcement raised alarms not only about her condition but also about the handling and acknowledgment of mental health within the industry.

Idols may disclose health-related absences primarily for physical injuries, but Mina’s case spotlighted the pressing issue of mental wellness.

The intense pressures of being a public figure, coupled with constant media scrutiny, often exacerbate psychological challenges. When idol groups perform in foreign cultures, their every action can come under intense observation.

During the “ODE TO YOU” tour, S.Coups also had to miss group activities due to his struggles with anxiety. In a behind-the-scenes photoshoot for “HIT THE ROAD,” he candidly shared his journey of overcoming these feelings, admitting that he ultimately recognized the need for a break. Nevertheless, he emphasized that performing continues to bring him joy, and he is determined not to let mental health issues impact his passion.

As the likelihood of mental health challenges increases for idols, it is crucial for the industry and management firms to prioritize the overall wellbeing—both physical and psychological—of their performers.

Source: k14

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