The South Korean government has introduced several measures to dismantle these exploitative structures:

and appearance, which is often documented through "daily vlog" style content. Diverse Talents

Since 2018, the #MeToo movement in South Korea has led to several high-profile exposés in entertainment. The Korea Arts and Culture Ethics Association introduced a voluntary “Safe Contract” guideline, but fewer than 10% of agencies have signed. In 2022, the National Assembly passed the “Jang Ja-yeon Law” (named after an actress who committed suicide in 2009 after being forced into prostitution), which strengthens penalties for agency executives who coerce sexual favors. However, as of 2026, only one executive has been convicted under this law.

As his eyes closed, a final notification: “Tomorrow’s schedule loaded. Variety show: ‘Idol Cooking Wars.’ Required emotion: competitive but gracious. Sleep well, Asset 407-Ion.”

Until recently, long-term contracts lasting 12 to 17 years were common, effectively granting agencies total control over an artist's personal and professional life.

The South Korean government has attempted to "fix" these systemic issues through: