Why young, rich K-pop stars Jeon So-mi, Suzy and Seolhyun are attracting haters for showing off their wealth online
Showered with fame, adulation and cold hard cash while still in their teens, a new generation of Korean idols is facing increasing scrutiny for showing off their lavish lifestyles and extravagant purchases on social media
With Korean idol entertainers entering the industry as young as 15 years old, it is no wonder that they are able to amass a sizeable amount of wealth before they even hit 20. But as these lucky few increasingly flaunt their lavish lifestyles online, it draws the public eye, as many argue whether such copious wealth is truly deserved.
US$200,000 before 20
Solo singer Jeon So-mi, previously of I.O.I and variety show fame, showed off her new ride on her YouTube vlog series, I Am Somi, released on her official label’s channel as a way for her to update fans on her current life.
The first episode entered around her high school graduation, and towards the end as a spoiler for the next episode, it featured a two-second cut of her waving from a bright yellow Lamborghini SUV.
Given that the luxurious car costs about US$200,000, it had netizens all riled up commenting that they were “uncomfortable” with such unsubtle swagger. The top rated comments ranted: “As expected, we don’t need to worry about celebrities. I’d rather worry about my own work”, as well as “showing off her foreign imported car, she’s really being obvious about her immaturity and lack of thought”.