NJZ’s Danielle reveals shocking trainee restrictions, struggles in K-pop

Danielle of NJZ, formerly NewJeans, opened up on Sunday about the lasting effects of her trainee days, reigniting concerns about the surveillance and restrictions imposed on young girls aspiring to debut in the K-pop industry.

During an Instagram livestream, the 19-year-old idol reflected on the discipline and pressure she endured as a trainee, stressing that no one should have to go through such an experience.

“Back when I was a trainee, there were times while deep down I knew something was wrong, but then I was forced to believe that was normal,” she said.

She revealed that her training involved extreme dieting, including being required to take photos of her meals before consuming them. She also spoke about the lack of personal freedom, as trainees were constantly monitored.

“You had to leave a message before you were able to go to the toilet, and this was even in free time. You were constantly being watched over when you were in the practice room, so you didn’t have much freedom at all. I remember having to take pictures of what I ate before I was actually able to consume it. I had to send pictures to our manager, and she would have to check it,” Danielle said.

She began her training at just 14 years old and debuted two and a half years later in 2022 alongside Minji, Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein.

Danielle expressed her hope that the industry would change for the better, saying, “I just don’t think trainees or artists should be experiencing even a remotely similar situation to what I went through at that stage, ‘cause it’s so heartbreaking. On behalf of those trainees and young artists out there that don’t have the voice to speak out, please, people should be treated as people. Every individual deserves respect and dignity.”

Her livestream emphasizes the reality that many K-pop trainees, especially young girls, are subjected to extreme scrutiny over their appearance, weight, and behavior.

As a result, agencies enforce rigid beauty standards, controlling everything from diet plans to personal style, with some idols reportedly being weighed daily and restricted from certain foods.

This pressure extends beyond debut, as idols are expected to maintain a flawless image in public, often leading to mental and physical strain.