Kim Yechan, currently recognized for her performances on Sing Again 4, recently appeared on JTBC’s Knowing Bros to reflect on her journey as a K-Pop idol. She revealed that she had debuted twice before finding her breakthrough. Her debut came in 2015 with the group Awesome Baby, and she debuted again in 2018 with Pink Fantasy.
Her early years in the industry were difficult. Kim Yechan admitted that she earned almost nothing during her time in both groups due to limited promotions and a lack of financial settlements. To support herself, she took on various side jobs, including factory work, delivery, PC café shifts, and part-time work at a barbecue restaurant. She recalled that her popularity at the PC café earned her a higher wage from the owner, a rare source of encouragement during challenging times.
Kim Yechan Overcame Financial Struggles Before Achieving Recognition Through Competitions
Her career began to turn around when she participated in competitive singing programs. Kim Yechan took part in shows like Superstar K, Sing Again 3, and Undercover. Winning Undercover brought her ₩100 million KRW (approximately $67,900 USD), allowing her to finally earn money from her vocal skills and gain recognition for her talent.
Pink Fantasy, her second girl group, was formed under MYDOLL Entertainment with eight members. They debuted in October 2018 with the digital single “Iriwa (Come Here),” produced with input from Super Junior’s Shindong. After roughly six years, the group disbanded on July 5, 2024.
Kim Yechan’s story illustrates the hardships many K-Pop idols face behind the scenes, from financial struggles to long hours and low earnings. Her persistence through multiple debuts, side jobs, and competitive programs eventually led her to success, proving her determination and dedication to building a career in the music industry.
