[TW: This article contains mention of depression and suicidal thoughts.]
Former Super Junior member Han Geng has opened up about the struggles he went through as an idol in South Korea. Keep on reading to learn more about his experiences.
Former Super Junior Han Geng Confesses Struggles as a K-Pop Idol
On January 28, 2024, an interview with ex-Super Junior member Han Geng was uploaded to the online channel "PhoenixTV." During the interview, Han Geng spoke about the distress he experienced during his time as a member of SM Entertainment's popular boy group, SM Entertainment.
During his interview, Han Geng revealed that his family's financial situation has always been bad, ever since he was young. Desperate to earn money and become famous to help his family, Han Geng signed a 13-year contract with SM Entertainment at the ripe age of 19.
It was reported that after Han Geng signed the contract, his father expressed regret at his own inability to provide, saying it felt like he had sold off his child.
As a trainee in South Korea, Han Geng practiced from morning to night every day. He spoke about how difficult it was during his trainee days, and he would often not realize it when he sustained an injury.
His training paid off, and Han Geng debuted as a member of Super Junior in 2005 and saw almost instant success. He made history as the first Chinese member to debut in South Korea. However, issues such as income distribution became a source of stress for him. It was revealed that he did not receive a large amount during the first settlement.
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He revealed that he had to pay off his debut to his company, meaning he had to return some of the income he earned. Han Geng revealed, "My income was less than during my trainee days." At the time, SM Entertainment covered all the living expenses for their trainees, with the expectation they would be repaid after their trainee's debut. SM Entertainment has since abolished this system.
Why Did Han Geng Leave Super Junior and SM Entertainment?
Though he achieved fame and success, Han Heng suffered from deep depression and had constant nightmares. Han Geng once confessed that he wanted to commit suicide to his father over the phone.
In 2009, Han Geng filed to terminate his contract with SM Entertainment and leave Super Junior. Looking back at his decision, Han Geng states that it was a good choice. He returned to China and built a career in his home country. Now, he is one of the biggest names in China.
Han Geng reminisced that despite the difficulties he experienced during that time, he is still grateful for the growth he experienced during his time as an idol in South Korea.
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Written by Alexa Lopez
