This emerging quartet from a company of moderate size shared their experiences with dorm life, first paycheck, and challenges faced after making their debut.
On September 3rd, the idol band QWER was featured on the web show “Don’t Forget Your Breakfast,”which was posted on the YouTube channel “Studio Suze”and was the 22nd episode. The episode can be found on the link here.
Despite originating from the small label 3Y Corporation x Tamago Prod., the four-member team has managed to elevate their status in the K-pop industry by topping the MelOn chart with their hit tracks “T.B.H”and “Discord.”
Ever since, they have solidified their reputation among K-pop fans through receiving frequent and plentiful invitations to perform at music festivals hosted by various organizations and universities.
During the show, MC Jang Sung Gyu expressed his curiosity about whether the quartet’s popularity was already reflected in their settlement fees.
Unlike other groups who typically take years to break even after the initial production cost of idols, QWER managed to debut by only spending 1/10th of what existing artists spend, which amounted to less than 1 billion KRW ($750k).
The youngest member of the group, Hina, made a confession:
“It’s been about 10 months (since we debuted) and we’ve only received one payment. We did get paid, but it was only 1,200 won ($0.90).”
Jang blurted, surprised by the studio’s reaction:
“Isn’t this a slave contract?”
Fortunately, the members laughed and dismissed it. During the show, QWER alluded to the company’s treatment and also revealed their distinct dorm arrangement.
Instead of renting a separate agency and dorm, QWER opted to rent an entire building where its members live on each floor. The 4th floor serves as a common space, while the 5th floor is designated as the practice room.
When Jang inquired about the reason for selecting a location far from Seoul, CEO and YouTuber Kim Gyeran, who is the founder of the team, provided the following explanation:
“The first consideration was to make sure we lived in the same building. We needed a place to practice together, and if we were going to continue practicing, we needed good soundproofing, and that’s why we needed a neighborhood. I don’t want to disturb people due to noise.”
Regrettably, because of the high cost of living, QWER is unable to continue making appearances on music shows for the time being. Magenta commented:
“I have something to say about this. When we (as a band) set up for a live show, it costs more than the monthly rent here (for the accommodation).”
Kim, the CEO, carried on:
“The most expensive thing about this project is special expenses like instrument setup and sound.”
The female idol band QWER was created by YouTuber Kim Gyeran. All three of its members, except for Siyeon, were already well-known internet stars before their debut.
Hina used to create content on TikTok, while Chodan and Magenta were broadcasters on AfreecaTV.
Despite facing initial critical views, the team eventually gained a lot of interest from K-pop fans, particularly in their music.
View QWER’s complete interview below!
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