There’s more than one way to look at it, however.
Koreaboo
For the most popular K-Pop idols, money does not appear to be an issue, as their sales and touring seem to be a massive source of revenue. On the other hand, many idols have shared their financial struggles, with some not receiving payment for many years.
Fourth-Gen Girl Group’s Reacts To First Paycheck Since 2021 Debut — Sparks Emotional Reactions
With new technology, there have been some different ways for idols to make money, though netizens sometimes end up feeling sad for them.
“Are They Broke?” — Popular Idols’ “Sad” Activities Leave Netizens Heartbroken
These days, many performance groups go live on various social media accounts, dancing and performing for viewers. Like TikTok, these platforms have “gifts” that can be given during streams, and the audience is asked to give them to “vote” for or support their favorites.
Usually, these groups do not include already debuted idols, but a netizen recently pointed out a live stream that included several familiar faces, including one that already debuted.
— 화살 (@todom_o) October 22, 2026
FANTASY BOYS‘ Kang Minseo, and two trainees who appeared on survival shows, Woo Hajoon (Project 7) and Ryou Kaito (Starlight Boys) were seen performing as members of one of these dance groups.
Many expressed surprise seeing the three men on the stream, as well as sadness over their situations.
I’m sick to my stomach https://t.co/090JDxNuAI
— 앨리스 🧷 (@TagsKeyring) October 22, 2026
like why https://t.co/lf5M7hvxEb
— win (@jebepeg) October 22, 2026
minseo 🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁 https://t.co/CvB1r9YdCi
— j🎼 (@leclerccity) October 22, 2026
However, others pointed out that the participants were likely making more money than in their idol careers, also bringing up that Minseo is currently involved in a lawsuit against Pocketdol.
y’all wont believe if i said a lot of ex-idols ended up being livestream dancer cause it makes more money than debuting in a boygroup https://t.co/nti897Bmqu
— IZZY | JANG YONGHOON MANAGER (@fromizzy_) October 22, 2026
minseo is literally being sued by pocketdol he needs to make money to afford his legal fees. like he won, but pocketdol appealed the ruling and is now going after him and the other 5 members for damages
— bella (@belllllq) October 22, 2026