On April 3, it was confirmed that a member of a six-member male idol group was handed over for trial on charges of forcibly molesting and raping a fellow group member, both during their trainee days and after their debut. The incident highlights the blindspots in the K-idol training system, where young trainees are not protected adequately outside of their practice time.

During the decision trial at the Seoul Central District Court on March 29, the prosecution requested that the former idol member, identified as 'A,' be sentenced to three years in prison, complete a sexual violence treatment program, be publicly disclosed, and have restricted employment for five years.

According to the Seoul Newspaper, 'A' is accused of touching victim B's body at least three times from 2017 to 2021 in the dorm and practice room. 'A' admitted to most of the charges and expressed remorse, but says he cannot remember some of the charges because he was too drunk at the time.

The victim reported the abuse to the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul in 2021, and A was indicted for indecent assault and rape in January. Following the incident, A left the group for personal reasons, and the agency stated that they are still investigating the matter and will release a statement later.

Trainees in the entertainment industry spend long periods in confined spaces such as training camps or practice rooms from a young age, making them vulnerable to violence and sexual crimes that occur within their agency and group. Experts have pointed out that the agency is in a legal blind spot because it is not an employment/educational institution, so it does not have the duty to prevent or protect trainees against sex crimes.

Lawyer Heo Joong Hyeok, who has handled numerous lawsuits related to the entertainment industry, explained that contracts with underage trainees and idols cannot be assessed only by the Labor Standards Act. Additionally, an agency cannot be seen as an educational institution or a protective facility, so it is not obligated to file a report.

Due to the industry's reputation and contract status, it is often difficult for victims to come forward, as was the case with the victim. Attorney Park Joo Hee pointed out that aspiring celebrities may be hesitant to speak out for fear of negative repercussions in the industry.

Kang Jin Seok, an advisory lawyer for the Korea Entertainment Management Association, added that conflicts with the company can be intimidating, especially for young individuals with little to no experience in society.

Despite the issue being a prevalent and serious problem, authorities have not adequately addressed it. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conducts a fact-finding survey on the popular culture and arts industry every two years, but it was not until the fourth survey in 2021 that there was an investigation related to sex crimes and violence by force in the industry. An official from the ministry acknowledged the oversight and stated that they plan to investigate the issue this year.