TXT Soobin Breaks Silence on Disturbing Diet Pressures During His Trainee Years

In the world of K-Pop, alongside its glitz and glamour, lies a darker facet characterized by stringent standards that idols are expected to conform to, with extreme diets being a prominent aspect.

Figures like Ailee and TWICE's Momo have previously shed light on their struggles with unhealthy dieting regimens while under immense pressure to shed weight rapidly.

Soobin's Candid Revelation

Recently, during a live stream on Weverse, Soobin, a member of TXT, shared a similar narrative, raising concerns among fans. Soobin, alongside Taehyun and Hueningkai, hosted a Weverse stream where they delved into untold stories from their days as trainees at BIGHIT MUSIC.

While the boys reminisced about their experiences in a light-hearted manner, some of the incidents appeared to be rather distressing, especially considering their tender age at the time.

Soobin recounted his personal struggle with dieting during that phase. He recalled a period when the company had imposed a strict diet regimen on him as a trainee, which he found exceedingly challenging to adhere to consistently. At one point, hunger drove him to sneak in some food.

The members revealed that all the practice rooms at the former BIGHIT building were equipped with CCTV cameras to monitor the trainees, except for one room.

However, while attempting to enjoy his meal, Soobin sensed someone's gaze upon him. Turning around, he spotted a rookie development team member peering at him through the window.

Fans expressed their hopes that the members have since healed from these traumatic experiences and extended their wishes for a future where young trainees wouldn't have to endure such hardships to debut.

Netizens' comments:

• Soobin's courage to open up about his experience with diet pressures is commendable. It sheds light on the harsh reality that many idols face behind the scenes. We should support him and others who speak out against such harmful practices."
• "It's heartbreaking to hear that Soobin had to go through such extreme measures to fit into society's beauty standards. This issue needs more attention, and companies should prioritize the well-being of their artists over unrealistic expectations."
• "Kudos to Soobin for speaking up about his struggles. It takes a lot of strength to share such personal experiences. Let's continue the conversation and raise awareness about the detrimental effects of diet pressures in the entertainment industry."
• "This just goes to show that the idol industry needs to address the toxic culture of body shaming and unhealthy dieting. Soobin's story is a wake-up call for everyone involved. It's time for change."
• "I hope Soobin's revelation sparks a larger discussion about mental health and self-acceptance. Nobody should have to go through such distressing experiences in pursuit of their dreams. It's time we prioritize mental well-being over appearance."

Although the members burst into laughter while imagining the situation, Soobin clarified that, as a trainee, it wasn't a humorous incident for him. "The moment literally gave me goosebumps," recalled the TXT leader.

While stringent diets are an almost inevitable part of a K-Pop idol's journey, this anecdote left fans perturbed, empathizing with the challenges faced by a young individual in such circumstances.

Follow and subscribe to KpopStarz for more news.
KpopStarz own this article.
Cassidy Jones wrote this.