On June 17, a new episode of the popular YouTube series Workman titled “A Job Where You Can Control an Idol’s Salary” was released. In the episode, fromis_9’s Park Jiwon took on a part-time experience as a bank clerk and chatted with the workers about their careers and salaries.
During a short break with a senior employee, the conversation naturally turned to compensation and annual income. After the employee revealed his salary first, Park Jiwon looked surprised and replied, “You earn really good money.”
The employee jokingly asked her if she earned double or even triple, given her idol status. Park Jiwon quickly denied the suggestion, saying, “What are you talking about?” He then shocked viewers by revealing the reality of his financial situation. “If that were the case, I wouldn’t be here. Honestly, up until last year or even before that I had absolutely no money.”
The singer went on to explain that she hasn’t received significant income during most of her idol career. “I had no income for eight years after debut. I lived like a pauper and it wasn’t long after that I started receiving severance payments.” His honest confession highlighted the financial challenges many idols face behind the scenes despite appearing on television and performing regularly.
Park Jiwon added that she only recently started managing and saving money seriously. “Now I’m finally working hard to save money.”
Although K-pop is often associated with glamor and success, many artists spend years paying off training costs, production expenses and other investments made by their agencies before they start receiving profits. Park Jiwon’s comments resonated with fans, offering a rare glimpse into the economic realities some idols experience even after making their official debut.
Following significant changes in the group’s management structure, fromis\9 continued its activities under a new agency and remained active in music and entertainment promotion.
With Park Jiwon now receiving deals and starting to build financial stability, fans have expressed support and hope that the group’s future endeavors will bring even greater success.
Sources: Daum | Daily TV
