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Hyoyeon reveals zero 'heartbeat' from second-gen K-pop collabs, calls herself a 'robot'

From Liberty Times · (1h ago) Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Girls' Generation member Hyoyeon revealed that second-generation K-pop groups had no romantic interactions during collaborations.
  • She described the collaborations as strictly business, with members acting like

The K-pop industry, particularly during the second generation, was a tightly controlled environment where interactions between male and female idols were heavily managed. While fans often imagined romantic sparks flying during joint performances, Hyoyeon's recent revelations on BIGBANG's Daesung's YouTube channel paint a starkly different picture. The Girls' Generation member candidly shared that collaborations were purely professional, akin to a robot completing a task before heading home. This contrasts sharply with the 'pink bubble' narratives often spun by entertainment companies and fans.

completely no feeling of excitement

โ€” HyoyeonHyoyeon's response when asked if she ever developed feelings for male artists she collaborated with.

Hyoyeon's account highlights the rigid structure of idol group interactions, where even knowing each other since their trainee days didn't foster closeness. She described a system where each member had a designated partner, and interacting with anyone else felt like a betrayal. This strict protocol, enforced by agencies like JYP Entertainment, created an atmosphere of extreme formality, leaving little room for genuine personal connection. The emphasis was on performance and professionalism, not on building relationships.

like a robot, finish the job and go home

โ€” HyoyeonHyoyeon's description of her mindset during collaborations.

The article also touches upon the incredible professionalism of these second-generation groups, citing Girls' Generation's 'Into the New World' MV shoot. Despite the overwhelming noise from a helicopter, they completed the iconic rooftop scene relying solely on 'muscle memory.' This anecdote underscores the immense talent and dedication that defined this era of K-pop, where technical skill and flawless execution were paramount, even under challenging conditions. It's a testament to their rigorous training and commitment to delivering top-tier performances, a standard that continues to influence the industry today.

If you chatted with someone other than your partner, it felt like cheating, it was very strange.

โ€” DaesungDaesung's humorous agreement on the strictness of idol interactions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.