JYP Entertainment, often lauded for its exemplary treatment of artists within the K-pop industry, recently found itself embroiled in controversy. On December 8, former VCHA member KG publicly announced her departure from the group and subsequently filed a lawsuit against the company, shedding light on troubling allegations.
VCHA, a girl group that debuted in early 2024 through the reality show “A2K” under JYP Entertainment, has faced an unusual hiatus that has left fans concerned. KG’s allegations provide a glimpse into the reasons behind this inactivity, highlighting severe issues within the company.
The lawsuit outlines several serious accusations, including workplace abuse, unwarranted financial burdens, and claims of inhumane treatment among members, culminating in a suicide attempt by one individual.
Inhumane Scheduling Practices
KG’s lawsuit details a grueling daily schedule, where her day commenced at 7 AM. After attending school for three hours, she returned to the JYP USA building at 10:30 AM for extensive training and work sessions that frequently lasted until 1 or 2 AM. Despite her youth, KG stated that her only moments of personal time occurred during sleep, as she was subjected to expectations of flawless attendance and performance.
Questionable Contract Terms and Debt Accusations
KG claimed that JYP exploited California law by classifying the group members as “trainees” to diminish their rights. The contractual arrangements complicated by a language barrier resulted in vague terms, most of which were in Korean and inadequately explained. Consequently, KG reported meager earnings of merely $500 per week, severely compounded by a debt exceeding $500,000 attributed to each member.
Additional financial strains included compulsory living arrangements at a $2.5 million residence and other fixed costs which the members were obliged to shoulder. Despite VCHA’s active performances, such as their opening act for TWICE’s U.S. tour, financial compensations remained unforthcoming, leaving KG still grappling with a purported debt of $504,503.
Extreme Dietary Restrictions and Surveillance
Moreover, VCHA members faced extreme pressure to maintain an unhealthy physical image, receiving limited food provisions, often restricted to small salads. Rounding out these distressing conditions, surveillance cameras were installed covertly within their dwelling to monitor eating habits—a stark violation of privacy as JYP had previously promised not to implement such invasive measures.
Health Problems Due to Stressful Conditions
Health hazards from rigorous training regimes were not uncommon. KG recounted an incident during which she was chastised for making mistakes during rehearsals and was pressured into repeated actions without access to water—resulting in a shoulder injury. The negligence continued, as she faced pressure to perform despite medical advice for rest, showcasing a troubling disregard for the artists’ well-being.
Mental and Emotional Distress
The psychological toll on VCHA’s members has been severe. KG’s lawsuit revealed instances of self-harm and eating disorders among the group, with one member even attempting suicide via an overdose of medication. Fortunately, timely intervention prevented a tragic outcome, but the company’s subsequent attempts to cover up the incident raised further ethical concerns.
Verbal Harassment Allegations
KG detailed frequent instances of verbal abuse from staff, intended to instill discipline and hard work among members. An incident leading to an emotional breakdown for one member highlighted the toxic environment, prompting KG to cease her participation in group activities since May while awaiting her contract’s termination.
Response from JYP Entertainment
In light of these allegations, a representative from JYP Entertainment characterized the situation as a difference in perspective and emphasized ongoing communications with KG’s representatives regarding her concerns, asserting the company’s intention to resolve the matter through legal channels.
Source: K14, Trellis Law
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