KG, a former member of the all-American K-pop group VCHA, has come forward with serious allegations of mistreatment and abuse during her time under JYP Entertainment.
The 17-year-old artist announced her departure from the group in December 2024, citing "incidents of abuse and mistreatment" by certain staff members at the agency. To support her claim, the former idol shared documents—including text messages, images, and personal accounts—in a Google Drive.
Among the most serious allegations are claims of excessive work hours over 60 hours per week and being forced to continue performing despite serious injuries. KG stated that she and other members received little to no medical care after sustaining injuries, and were sometimes treated with unknown injections instead of being allowed to rest.
In some messages, it was revealed that the girls were forced by JYP staffers to eat the same salad daily. KG also revealed the staffers told her and fellow VCHA members not to eat anything other than what they were given and to watch their weight.
"At the same time, JYPE also told us we couldn't eat at our hotel at all—we had to eat only what the company provided. When they found out we weren't sticking to salads, the staff's displeasure was obvious," the statement read.
"Another JYPE manager told us words to the effect of, 'lose weight or you'll regret the way you look' on one occasion," KG added.
Furthermore, KG claimed that JYP staff often used their lunch breaks to scold the girls, leaving the VCHA members with only five minutes to eat their meals before the next lesson.
Read more: KG of VCha Doubles Down on Lawsuit Against JYPE: 'I Am Worried for the Girls Who Remain in VCha'
KG's allegations against JYP Entertainment began in early 2024, shortly after VCHA started global promotions. She claims that she and her fellow members faced abuse, mistreatment, and exploitative working conditions, including excessive work hours, emotional and physical distress, and severe restrictions on food and water. KG specifically cited an incident in February 2024 when a member attempted suicide, which she says was caused by the unhealthy environment, and was dismissed by the company as food poisoning.
KG filed her lawsuit to terminate her contract in December 2024, stating she could not continue her artistic growth in such conditions and expressing hope for industry reform to protect other idols. JYP Entertainment has denied all allegations, calling KG's claims "false and exaggerated."
