During a recent episode of MBC’s “Radio Star,”Jo Kwon from the K-pop group 2AM gained attention for openly discussing the unequal treatment within JYP Entertainment.
His disclosures brought to attention the stark disparities in the treatment of 2AM by label head J.Y. Park in comparison to their fellow labelmates, 2PM and Wonder Girls.
The Concept of Deprivation: J.Y. Park’s Unconventional Approach
During the interview, Jo Kwon reflected on the early stages of 2AM’s debut and discussed how J.Y. Park incorporated an unconventional concept of deprivation to fit with their song’s theme.
[📢] MBC ‘Radio Star’ Appearance InformationIn a little while, at 10:30, Jo Kwon will appear on ‘ #RadioStar’.Vocal Restaurant Talk Restaurant 🗣️Come visit Jo Kwon’s restaurant, which is irreplaceable! You can find it on MBC! #Jo KWON #JO_KWON pic.twitter.com/Z1UDiN4QkM
— CUBE ENTERTAINMENT (@cubeunited) April 24, 2024
The group was subjected to a restricted living space with limited facilities, as revealed by him. This included an unusual wake-up method, as a chili powder miller in the vicinity was responsible for waking them up.
Financial Restraints and Limitations on Basic Necessities
Jo Kwon added more details about the financial limitations that were placed on 2AM, specifically regarding their food costs.
Despite JYP Entertainment’s seemingly strong financial position, Jo Kwon disclosed that the group was given a small budget, limiting their ability to enjoy basic necessities such as regular meals.
“Every crew has its own set spending limit on the company credit card for meals, right? Ours? Well, we could only indulge in Korean barbecue once a month. It was absurd.”
Comparative Treatment: Contrasting Lives Within JYP Entertainment
Undoubtedly, the most illuminating aspect of Jo Kwon’s interview was the contrasting treatment of 2AM in comparison to other groups within JYP Entertainment.
[📺] [Pre-release] Jo Kwon, an idol who is still talked about, made a statement about his dating beliefs?! (feat. The reason why Jinwoon still uses polite language towards Jo Kwon🤣), broadcast on MBC 240424 (Source: #Radio Star | Naver Naver TV) #Jo Kwon #JO_KWON https://t.co/n5tLPXwlFl
— CUBE ENTERTAINMENT (@cubeunited) April 24, 2024
Despite 2AM facing difficulties due to lack of resources, Jo Kwon pointed out that their labelmates 2PM and Wonder Girls lived in luxurious apartments with their own rooms, enjoying a much more comfortable lifestyle.
When host Kim Gu-ra expressed shock and asked, “But wasn’t JYP Entertainment financially stable at that time? Did J.Y. Park intentionally set that limit to uphold the appearance of not being able to lavish your loved ones?”
Jo Kwon replied, “Exactly. It was all for that image. Both 2PM and Wonder Girls were living in luxurious apartments with their own rooms.”
Response and Reflection: Jo Kwon’s Insights and Resonance
Upon being asked by the host, Jo Kwon conveyed his comprehension of J.Y. Park’s goal to fully embrace the concept of their song.
April 24 (Wed) PM 10:30 MBC Radio Star on-site photo 📸 #Jokwon # チョグォンpic.twitter.com/on1bpzqQaE
— Jokwon Fan Japan (@Jokwon_Fan_JP) April 23, 2024
Despite facing difficult circumstances, Jo Kwon’s reflections on the experience highlight the determination and fortitude displayed by 2AM members during their formative years.
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