UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, legendary K-Pop idol Bada from the iconic girl group S.E.S. shared her harrowing journey through poverty during the latest episode of Channel A’s Best Friend Documentary: Table for 4, aired on October 20. Bada’s candid confession sheds light on the stark contrast between the glamorous lives of successful idols and the harsh realities faced by many.
Bada, who grew up in a family with a rich musical heritage, initially enjoyed a comfortable life. Her father was a renowned pansori performer, and she attended a private kindergarten equipped with a swimming pool. However, everything changed overnight when her father fell critically ill, with doctors predicting he had only six months to live. The family’s financial stability crumbled as exorbitant medical costs forced them to move to the countryside to cut expenses, only to fall victim to rental fraud.
As Bada’s family struggled to make ends meet, the pressures mounted. Her parents even tried to convince her against attending an arts high school due to financial constraints. Nevertheless, Bada’s determination shone through; her father began performing night shows to support her education. She recounted, “Watching him leave the house wearing straw shoes, I made up my mind that I had to succeed.”
Bada’s mother also worked tirelessly, taking jobs in a hospital cafeteria and later boiling medicinal herbs at a traditional clinic. Their situation remained dire until S.E.S. emerged, marking a turning point in Bada’s life. She vividly recalled an unforgettable moment when the group’s manager mistook their prefab home for a bathroom during a holiday visit, highlighting their struggles.
The emotional weight of her journey intensified as Bada shared her guilt about using warm water in the dorm while her parents endured cold showers at home. However, she ultimately fulfilled her promise to herself and her family. As the leader and main vocalist of S.E.S., Bada successfully carved out a name for herself in the industry.
Today, she stands as a testament to resilience and perseverance, enjoying a luxurious life with her husband and daughter. Bada’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges many idols face behind the curtain.
As her narrative unfolds, it highlights the urgent need for awareness around the struggles of aspiring artists in the K-Pop industry. Bada’s heartfelt revelations not only resonate with fans but also inspire countless others facing adversity.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bada’s journey and the ongoing discussions surrounding the realities of the K-Pop industry.
