5 Real-Life Struggles Of K-Pop Idols As Shown In "Imitation"

"Imitation" is a webtoon-based K-Drama about the realities of becoming and being a K-Pop idol. The drama follows K-Pop idols with different levels of success.

There is the top solo artist La RiMa (played by T-ARA's JiYeon) who has the industry in the palm of her hand.

There is also a top boy group SHAX made up of members Kwon Ryuk (played by U-KISS's Jun), Hyuk (played by ATEEZ's JongHo), DoJin (played by Park YuRi), LeeHyun (played by SF9's HwiYoung), leader JaeWoo (played by Ahn JungHoon), and former member EunJo (played by SF9's Chani). They are at the top of their game but have the pressure of keeping it that way.

We also have a rookie boy group, SPARKLING, made up of members SeYoung (played by ATEEZ's SeongHwa), MinSoo (played by ATEEZ's San), HyunOh (played by Boys Republic's SuWoong), and YuJin (played by ATEEZ's YunHo). They are trying desperately to hit the big time after being active but unpopular for a couple of years.

Finally, we have a rookie girl group, Tea Party, including members MaHa (played by Jung JiSo), Ria (played by MinSeo), and HyunJi (played by ex-Pristin member Lim NaYoung). They are on the rise from their debut and need to secure success to prove themselves.

But how do these idols fair along in the world of "Imitation?" The drama has done a good job of showing how difficult their world can be. This list compares some of the drama plots to the real-life realities of being a K-Pop star.

Warning: This article may contain spoilers for Episodes 1 to 6!

 

1. Competition and beauty expectations

Even though it is entirely possible for fans to love more t