Cover BTS leader RM, who publicly champions mental health awareness, addressing world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 (Photo: Facebook/United Nations)
BTS leader RM, who publicly champions mental health awareness, addressing world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 (Photo: Facebook/United Nations)
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In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, the efforts of K-pop idols to normalise conversations about emotional well-being are nothing short of revolutionary
The world of K-pop is where perfectionism reigns supreme and K-pop idols are often seen as superhuman, juggling crazy schedules and punishing pressures with a million-dollar smile. But a refreshing wave of change is sweeping through the industry.
Read more: 6 times Blackpink’s Jennie was a role model for love, style, and mental health
More and more K-pop idols are stepping forward to champion mental health awareness, shattering the stigma surrounding emotional well-being, and inspiring others to prioritise their mental health.
This movement, spearheaded by some of the most influential names in K-pop, is not just changing the conversation within the industry but is also having a profound impact on global perceptions of mental health.
IU: A voice for the voiceless
Above IU and BTS’ Suga performing ‘Eight’ live on IU’s talk show, ‘IU’s Palette’
Singer-songwriter IU (Lee Ji-eun), popularly known in South Korea as the “nation’s little sister”, has used her musical talents to address mental health issues head-on. Her song Palette celebrates self-acceptance at different stages of life, while Eight, a collaboration with BTS’ Suga, who co-wrote and produced the song, touches on themes of anxiety and healing.
See also: 7 things you might not know about IU
Beyond her music, IU has been candid about her own experiences with mental health, battling anxiety, and overcoming eating disorders. She openly discusses how she manages stress and the importance of seeking help when needed. Her honesty has endeared her to fans and helped normalise conversations about emotional well-being in South Korea.
Babymonster’s Ahyeon: Knowing when to press pause
Above Ahyeon makes her highly-anticipated return to Babymonster, debuting with their titular single, ‘Sheesh’
Ahyeon (Jung Ah-yeon) of Blackpink’s “baby sisters”, Babymonster, took a step back before they could even debut. In November 2023, YG Entertainment announced that Ahyeon would not be a part of it, citing “health issues” but promised to provide the budding singer “with all the resources so that she may return in her best condition.”
Babymonster went ahead as a six-member K-pop idol group, dropping two singles. By April 2024, Ahyeon returned, heralding a new beginning for Babymonster. “I had a hard time mentally,” she revealed in an interview, adding that she focused on her recovery by working out at home and eating good meals. “I wanted to get well soon and return to my team.”
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Her eventual inclusion sparked significant attention, but she also gained respect for being forthright about her struggles despite barely being a rookie. Ahyeon is a prime example of using the superpower of knowing how and when to press pause to better care for and benefit your mental and emotional well-being.
BTS: Pioneers of self-love
Above BTS leader RM urging millions to “speak yourself” in his speech at the launch of the Generation Unlimited campaign
No discussion of mental health in K-pop would be complete without mentioning BTS. The seven-member group has been at the forefront of promoting self-love and emotional well-being through their music and actions. Their Love Yourself series of albums tackled themes of self-acceptance and growth, resonating deeply with fans across the globe.
Read more: BTS renews contract with HYBE and BigHit: what are the members doing now?
BTS leader RM (Kim Nam-joon) has been particularly vocal about the importance of mental health. In numerous interviews and speeches, including one at the United Nations, he has encouraged young people to speak their truths and embrace their flaws. The group’s openness about their struggles has created a safe space for fans to discuss their mental health challenges.
Mamamoo’s Wheein: Advocating for therapy
Above A day in the life of Mamamoo’s Wheein, shooting a trailer for her second EP, ‘Whee’
The impact of these idols’ efforts extends far beyond the K-pop fandom. Their advocacy has sparked conversations about mental health in schools, workplaces, and homes across South Korea.
See also: Mamamoo’s Wheein talks about expressing her own identity in new album, ‘Whee’
Mamamoo member Wheein (Jung Whee-in) has been open about her experiences with anxiety and panic disorders, sharing how therapy has helped her manage her symptoms. By discussing her journey with mental health treatment, Wheein has played a crucial role in destigmatising therapy in South Korea, where seeking professional help for mental health issues has traditionally been taboo.
Her courage in speaking out has inspired many fans to consider therapy as a viable option for their mental health concerns.
Stray Kids’ Bang Chan: Spreading positivity
Above A compilation of Bang Chan offering comforting words through Stray Kids’ ‘Chan’s Room’ live streams
Stray Kids leader Bang Chan (Christopher Chahn Bahng) made it his mission to create a supportive environment for both his members and fans. Through the group's weekly ‘Chan’s Room’ live streams, he offers comforting words of encouragement, shares personal anecdotes about overcoming challenges, and emphasises the importance of self-care.
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Bang Chan’s approach to discussing mental health is refreshingly casual and relatable, making it easier for young fans to engage with these important topics without feeling overwhelmed.
Twice’s Mina: Taking time for mental health
Above Mina on her journey to becoming a Twice member, overcoming her struggles, and restarting her career after taking a hiatus
The entertainment industry in South Korea is slowly but surely adapting to prioritise the mental health of its artists. Many companies now are more willing to accommodate idols' mental health needs, including allowing for breaks when necessary.
When Twice’s Japanese member Mina (Mina Myoi) took a break from group activities due to anxiety, it marked a significant moment in K-pop history. The decision, supported by her company JYP Entertainment and fellow Twice members, sent a powerful message about the importance of prioritising mental health, even in the fast-paced and demanding world of K-pop.
Read more: From stage to runway: K-pop idols-turned high-fashion models
Mina’s gradual return to activities, at her own pace, has been a testament to the positive changes happening in the industry regarding mental health accommodations.
EXO’s Chen: Normalising emotional vulnerability
Above Digital creator VirgoMartins takes to the streets to ask Koreans what they think of EXO’s Chen’s surprise announcement and the follow-up apology letter
EXO’s Chen (Kim Jong-dae) has used his powerful voice not just for singing but also for speaking up about emotional well-being.
The EXO crooner drew from his personal experiences, having faced backlash for dropping a surprise marriage announcement and his fiancee's pregnancy in January 2020 that not only divided fans and critics but also sparked an internet flame war and a walkout protest despite his attempt at being transparent and honest–a rarity in the K-entertainment industry–resulting in the idol having to write an apology letter.
See also: Mental Health Awareness Month: 7 K-dramas that tackled uncharted territory
In various interviews and fan meetings, Chen has emphasised the importance of acknowledging and expressing one's feelings, even the difficult ones. His approach to emotional honesty has been particularly impactful in challenging traditional notions of masculinity in K-pop, showing that it’s okay for men to be vulnerable and seek support when needed.
Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon: Shining a light on professional help
Above SNSD’s Taeyeon imparting advice to then-rookie SM Entertainment K-pop idol girl group Red Velvet members Seulgi (Kang Seul-gi) and Wendy (Shon Seung-wan)
It’s no secret that Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon (Kim Tae-yeon) has been a vocal advocate for seeking professional help for mental health issues.
She hasn’t shied away from talking about her experiences with the pressures of being a K-pop idol, dealing with depression, and the benefits she's found in therapy and medication. Taeyeon has proved that even in the spotlight, it’s okay to struggle, seek help, and prioritise one’s physical and mental health.
Don’t miss: Girls’ Generation makes grand comeback with new album ‘Forever 1’
By sharing her stories, Taeyeon has helped to break down the stigma surrounding mental health treatment in South Korea and has encouraged fans to seek help when needed–and in doing so, she’s empowering millions to do the same.
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Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
