8 Members Of Popular Girl Group Had To Live In One Room Together
Tight living conditions aren’t uncommon when it comes to K-Pop group dorms, given the sheer number of members in some groups and the generally smaller size of apartments in Seoul. However, some situations are exceptionally challenging, standing out even in an industry known for its rigorous demands.
A recent confession by Jinsoul, a former member of popular girl group LOONA and now part of MODHAUS‘s ARTMS and Odd Eye Circle unit, has shed light on one such extreme case.
During an interaction with fans on the fan communication platform Fab, Jinsoul opened up about the early days of LOONA, a group that originally debuted with twelve members. She shared startling details about their living arrangements, which involved squeezing eight of the group members into one room.
According to Jinsoul, the room was equipped with bunk beds arranged in a ㄷ shape, a setup that, in hindsight, Jinsoul finds almost unbelievable.
At first, it was 8 and 4 [members]… The 8-person room had bunk beds arranged in a ㄷ shape ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ It’s amazing to think about it now. If it was now, we’d have revolted so much.
— Jinsoul
The initial arrangement of eight members in one room and four in another reflects the harsh realities of life as a budding K-Pop idol. These conditions, while shocking to many, are a part of the unseen side of the K-Pop industry, where groups often start their careers in shared dormitories. The high cost and limited availability of housing in Seoul further exacerbate these living conditions.
8 members squished in one room while the manager had one for themselves. lee jongmyung when i catch you… https://t.co/rjNyEjhQnz pic.twitter.com/B8zRYxLIvk
— alex 🌴 (@lyonwav) December 3, 2023
Despite the cramped space, Jinsoul recalled how the members managed to find joy and friendship in their shared living experience. The lack of personal space led to the members installing curtains around their beds for privacy. Yet, these challenging conditions also fostered a sense of unity and teamwork, with members cherishing moments spent chatting on the sofa and sharing meals together.
But it was fun to chat on the sofa ㅋ And sharing meals
— Jinsoul
For many groups, including LOONA, starting out in such tight living conditions is a rite of passage, a test of their dedication and commitment to their art and their group.
loonathedorm never existed and everytime they talk about their living conditions i understand more and more why https://t.co/6ED35BxBCr
— peakaboo 𝜗𝜚 (@yvesntuate) December 3, 2023
As the group gained popularity and financial stability, their living situation improved, offering more space and privacy to each member by splitting them into 4 members per room.
The story of LOONA’s early days is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by K-Pop idols, a testament to their hard work and perseverance behind the scenes of their glamorous performance.
