K-pop Star Hyokyo's Shocking "CEO Dating Center" Claim

Hyogyeong, a former member of the group ARIAZ, which debuted in 2019, has revealed the dark side of K-pop. Hyogyeong stated on her YouTube channel, "The center position in a certain group was not based on skill or popularity," claiming that "​a member who was in a romantic relationship with the CEO took that spot."

Hyogyeong added that such incidents are "commonplace in small agencies." She explained that while fans might not have understood why a particular member was the center, everyone within the company knew the reason. However, Hyogyeong did not directly name any specific group or individuals.

Hyogyeong also addressed settlement issues. She revealed, "After promoting for two and a half years, I received my first settlement statement, and it was nothing but debt." She stated that the agency calculated all the training costs, costume expenses, dormitory fees, and food expenses incurred before their debut as the members' debt.

Hyogyeong also shared her experiences of having limited choices as an idol. "I received an offer to appear in a movie, but my agency refused. They didn't even properly explain why," she said, adding, "​There were so many things I couldn't choose. Idols are treated like possessions, not as professionals."

Hyogyeong, who deliberated extensively before deciding to release the video, expressed her feelings, stating, "I hated the thought of another victim like me emerging."