Debuting as an idol is a formidable challenge, an odyssey marked by trials and tribulations that few outsiders truly comprehend. In the early 2000s, one iconic group faced the harsh realities of the industry head-on - TVXQ, a pioneer under SM Entertainment since their debut in 2003.

Different Paths, Shared Struggles

Over the course of their careers, the original TVXQ lineup embarked on divergent journeys, with several members departing along the way. Notably, Kim Jaejoong and Kim Junsu emerged as key figures who weathered the storms together.

In a poignant reunion on the final episode of Jaejoong's show, "Jaefriends," the camaraderie between Junsu and Jaejoong took center stage, underscoring the depth of their enduring friendship forged through years of shared hardships.

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Unveiling the Harsh Realities

During the show, the duo delved into their past, revealing the stark financial challenges they faced during their early years as idols. Recounting an incident, they disclosed a moment when, strapped for cash, the members couldn't even scrape together ₩500 KRW (approximately $0.38 USD) for a meal.

Jaejoong animatedly shared a memory where the group's excitement soared when one member revealed possession of ₩300 KRW (about $0.23 USD), allowing them to pool resources for a shared meal. Junsu added that their meager funds fostered a culture of sharing, a necessity born out of financial constraints.

The Unseen Struggles of Early K-Pop

Reflecting on their debut era, the duo painted a vivid picture of an industry quite different from today's global K-Pop phenomenon. In a time before the internet's widespread reach, idols lacked a platform to voice concerns about their treatment.

The scarcity of financial resources, juxtaposed against their tireless efforts, laid bare the unglamorous side of idol life. In an era where K-Pop had yet to conquer the world stage, TVXQ's story serves as a testament to the resilience required to navigate the unforgiving terrain of the early 2000s K-Pop scene.

Watch the complete episode by clicking here.

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Cassidy Jones wrote this.