It sounds like the kind of thing that should never happen to a debuted idol — yet fans are heartbroken after spotting familiar faces performing as livestream dancers on social media. FANTASY BOYS’ Kang Minseo, along with Woo Hajoon (Project 7) and Ryou Kaito (Starlight Boys), was seen dancing on a TikTok-style stream where viewers send virtual gifts — and the sight has left netizens asking, “are they broke?”
FANTASY BOYS (Credits: Koreaboo)
Why Beloved Idols Are Doing “Sad” Livestream Dance Gigs
These platforms run on viewer gifts, with audiences asked to “vote” for or support performers. Debuted idols almost never appear in this world — which is why the stream went viral. Fans flooded the comments with sympathy, pointing out how many idols have shared stories of going unpaid for years despite packed schedules and touring revenue.
Minseo’s situation adds another layer: he is currently in a legal battle with his agency PocketDol. As one fan explained, he won an initial ruling but the agency appealed and is now going after him and five other members for damages — meaning he needs income to cover legal fees.
There’s Another Side to the Story
Not everyone sees it as tragic. Other netizens pushed back, arguing the dancers are likely making more money than they ever did as idols — one widely shared post claimed many ex-idols became livestream dancers because it pays better than debuting in a boygroup. In that light, the gig isn’t a fall from grace but a pragmatic move: the spotlight may be smaller, but the paycheck is real.
Also Read: 5th Gen Group’s Silent Disbandment and Idol Exodus Leaves Agency With Just 1 Active Artist
Source: Koreaboo — read the full story there.
