KPop Demon Hunters star Ejae reveals the brutal reality of her 11 years of popstar training at record label in Korea where she underwent pouting and posing lessons and chewing gum and junk food were banned

Ejae, a key figure behind the Oscar-winning track 'Golden' from the Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters, has opened up about the relentless discipline and challenges she endured during her formative years training as a K-Pop idol. Her journey, spanning over a decade with one of South Korea’s most influential entertainment companies, reflects the demanding nature of the industry behind the polished performances.

Beginning her career as a teenager under the auspices of SM Entertainment, Ejae spent 11 years immersed in a rigorous training regime designed to sculpt every aspect of her public persona. This process involved not only vocal and dance instruction but also intensive coaching on physical presentation, including how to pose for photos and conduct interviews. The training extended beyond performance skills, with strict lifestyle restrictions such as bans on chewing gum, junk food, and soda, all intended to maintain an idealized image.

Ejae’s regimentation included language acquisition, particularly Chinese, anticipating the expansive global audience for K-Pop. Her development was meticulously controlled, encompassing monthly photoshoots to refine her expression and consistent attention to facial muscle training. However, the sustained pressure and stringent rules also brought significant challenges and personal sacrifices during her teenage years.

Despite her dedication, Ejae’s time with SM Entertainment concluded when she was 23. Afterward, she transitioned into songwriting, collaborating with producers and contributing pieces that gained recognition in the Korean music scene. One of her early successes was writing 'Hello' for singer Hani, followed by the hit 'Psycho' performed by Red Velvet, which topped international charts. These accomplishments paved the way for her involvement in the music production for KPop Demon Hunters.

The song 'Golden,' co-written and performed by Ejae alongside Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna, achieved critical acclaim, culminating in winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song. This milestone underscored her evolution from trainee to celebrated artist on the global stage. Ejae’s acceptance speech at the Oscars was a poignant moment, reflecting her pride in K-Pop’s rising influence, although it was marred by a premature cut-off that sparked disappointment among viewers and fans.

The trajectory of Ejae’s career exemplifies the broader context of the K-Pop industry, known for its intense training programs that often span nearly a decade before an artist’s debut. The system emphasizes perfection in appearance, performance, and public conduct, with strict controls imposed by entertainment agencies and fierce scrutiny from devoted fan bases. This environment can lead to significant psychological and physical pressures on artists.

The industry’s darker side has been exposed in recent years, particularly following the tragic suicides of prominent K-Pop stars Sulli and Koo Hara in 2019, incidents that drew attention to the burdens placed on idols, including cyberbullying and mental health stigmas. Artists like Amber Liu have spoken candidly about the necessity to conform to strict standards and the limited freedom experienced within the industry.

K-Pop idols typically face a limited career lifespan, often retiring around the age of 30 after years of intensive work under rigorous standards. Their every move is closely monitored, and any deviation from expected behavior can result in severe backlash from fans and the media alike. The relentless pursuit of perfection and the high stakes involved make the industry both highly competitive and potentially perilous for its stars.

Ejae’s story, from exhaustive training to international acclaim, highlights both the extraordinary demands of the K-Pop world and the resilience required to succeed. Her achievements contribute to the growing global recognition of K-Pop as a major cultural force, while also shedding light on the personal costs behind the glamour. As she continues to break new ground, her experience serves as a testament to the complex realities faced by many artists within this dynamic yet challenging industry.