K-Pop idols lead lives which are fascinating to fans and the general public, with their headlines containing relatively tame news when compared to that is seen with American pop stars. Last week, the focus of Korean entertainment news shifted towards the topic of exclusive contracts within large entertainment agencies. In addition to the salacious headlines surrounding EXO-M's Kris, audiences were intrigued by the consecutive breakup news involving actors Kim Bum and Kim Woo Bin. Korean dramas such as “Monstar” and “Shut Up, Flower Boy Band” touch upon many of the issues that have recently been within the headlines.

Idols sometimes easily sign contracts without always realizing the consequences.

The issue of slave contracts have become relevant in the past week, with many new fans of K-Pop confused as to why idols would agree to such contracts. The 2012 tvN drama “Shut Up! Flower Boy Band” makes it readily apparent that teenage would be idols of the fictitious band Strawberry Fields have little control over the contractual process. The drama primarily focuses on the band itself, while contract signing scenes from episode eight place a strong emphasis on the role of the family members of Strawberry Fields.

 “Shut Up! Flower Boy Band” also delivers interesting commentary on the role of the producer within Korean pop music, the concept of a group member exploring a solo career, and the consequences of a scandalous relationship. Sung Joon stars as Strawberry Fields leader Kwon Ji Hyuk while INFINITE's L is Lee Hyun Soo. “Shut Up! Flower Boy Band” is a drama that is sometimes neglected by K-Pop fans but is definitely a must see.

 Being an idol is hard work, especially if your main goal is to be a famous rapper.

Before headlines surrounding EXO began to surface, Rap Monster of BTS delivered commentary on the difficulty of transitioning from a hip hop artist to an idol. The lifestyle of an idol, while extremely attractive on its surface, is one filled with rules and image regulation. In the 2012 drama “K-Pop Extreme Survival”, Ji Seung Yeon (Go Eun Ah) is willing to do whatever it takes to become the member of an idol group. In a twist similar to “You're Beautiful”, Ji Seung Yeon transforms into a boy in order to transition from a pianist to a member of the fictitious group M2. Ji Seung Yeon dreams of becoming a hip hop star, with M2 leader Kang Woo Hyun (Park Yoo Hwan) the biggest obstacle standing in the way of her impending fame.

The idol lifestyle dictates that some relationships are denied, while others are staged.

When K-Pop idols and actors begin to release dating (or break up) news consecutively, questions over the legitimacy of their relationships are instantly raised. Korean media can be relentless in discovering details making TMZ look tame by comparison. The Hong Sisters' 2009 drama “You're Beautiful” touches on the strange complexities that surround idol relationships through two plots. Hwang Tae Kyung (Jang Geun Suk) is encouraged to date Yoo He Yi (After School's UEE) at the encouragement of their management. Although, Tae Kyung is more interested in Go Mi Nyeo (Park Shin Hye), he maintains the ruse for endorsement purposes.

Congruent with this plot, is a subplot involving Kang Shi Woo (Jung Yong Hwa) who is also interested in Mi Nyeo. Shi Woo encourages Mi Nyeo to meet him in public in funny disguises to evade the public who cannot know about his relationship.

Saesang fans have the capability of destroying the career of an idol.

The 2013 musical drama “Monstar” creatively depicts fan obsession, saesang fans, and the orchestrated lifestyle of idols. Yoon Seol Chan (Beast's Yong Jun Hyung) is the member of a popular male group, Men In Black. While exiting one situation that could lead him into a scandal, Yoon Seol Chan is accused of pushing a saesang fan. Seol Chan struggles to maintain his position in the idol group and faces harsh criticism from the public for pushing the fan, even though he is falsely accused. While “Monstar” ends on a positive note, a similar situation in real life could lead to the end an idol's career.
The idol world is filled with people who want to be the next star.
The main plot of the fantasy romantic comedy "Secret Garden" focuses on sparkling tracksuit clad Kim Joo Wan (Hyun Bin) and his romantic pursuit of stunt woman Gil Ra Im (Ha Jin Won). Beyond the body switching comedy that has attracted audiences to "Secret Garden" is the plot which surrounds hapless Hallyu star Oksa (Yoon Sang Hyun). Lacking true vocal talent, Oksa uses his charm to build a legion of fans. However, a plagiarism scandal with musical prodigy Han Tae Sun (Lee Jong Suk) threatens his career, while shedding light on his past indiscretions.