To say that idols have it rough is an understatement. They get all the fame, but at what price—literally speaking?

(G)I-DLE’s Soyeon recently shared some shocking insights in a new video by Pixid. During the show, Lee Youngji brought up the topic of Soyeon’s income. Soyeon hesitated before revealing that her earnings fluctuate wildly. She mentioned that in one month, she earned 1 billion KRW (roughly $723,000), while in another, she only made $100. This revelation left viewers stunned. Some expressed sympathy for idols' hardships, while others were surprised that Soyeon, a prolific music producer, could earn so little despite presumably high royalties.

But should we really be surprised? VICTON’s Hanse previously revealed that K-Pop idols get paid approximately $36 per music show appearance. This was shocking, considering the grueling schedule idols endure for these shows, starting early in the morning, rehearsing multiple times, and spending the entire day filming.

We've heard numerous stories from idols about their early struggles. For instance, g.o.d.’s Park Joon Hyung shared that during their debut, the group had no money, making it hard to even buy proper meals. Former BTL member Jay and former NU’EST member Aron also revealed that they received no payment even after debuting. Epik High, in their appearance on “XYOB,” mentioned that all three members had to take part-time jobs to make a living despite having already debuted.

Everyone knows how tough an idol's career is, but is it really worth all the ups and downs? For some, the answer is a resounding yes. Those who make it big see their hard work pay off with a steady income, a huge fanbase, and lucrative endorsement deals. They get to live the dream, enjoying the fame and financial stability that comes with being at the top of their game.

But what about the countless idols who never hit the big time? For them, it’s a different story. All the time, effort, and money they pour into their careers can feel like it’s for nothing. These idols often face the harsh reality of inconsistent earnings, sometimes bringing in shockingly low amounts despite their dedication. The glitz and glamour of idol life quickly fade when they’re met with financial instability and constant pressure to succeed.

The sacrifices they make are enormous—grueling hours, physical exhaustion, mental stress, and sometimes even serious health issues. Many idols give up traditional education and personal relationships, dedicating everything to their craft. But without the guarantee of success, these sacrifices can seem overwhelming and, at times, pointless.

So, is it truly worth it? For those who break through and achieve stardom, absolutely. But for the many who struggle in the shadows, it’s a tough question that hangs over their heads. The brutal reality of the idol industry begs a serious discussion about the true cost of fame and whether all the hard work and sacrifice are worth it in the end. What do you think—is it truly worth the effort?