YG Entertainment vs. SM Entertainment: A Comparison of Artist Treatment and Company Culture
The K-pop industry is a highly competitive arena, with several entertainment companies vying for the spotlight. Among the leaders in this field are YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment. This article will delve into a comparison of the treatment of artists under these two prominent labels, focusing on YG Entertainment, SME (S.M. Entertainment), and their respective reputations in the industry.
Yorki vs. Narrative Icon
HYBE (formerly known as YJ Entertainment) takes the crown when it comes to artist treatment. This company not only provides consistent work opportunities but also ensures fair compensation and a supportive environment. According to Hoshi, the transition from being on SME to HYBE marked a significant improvement in treatment. When Hoshi asked for a simple favor—a bowl of ramen—his request was met with seafood-filled noodles, a clear indication of the company’s better treatment policies. In comparison, JYP Entertainment, which is the leader in this section, still demands long and inhumane schedules from its artists, despite providing both work and compensation.
The SME Legacy: A History of Bad Reputation
SME, once the go-to label for emerging K-pop stars, has faced numerous criticisms and legal battles over the years. They are infamous for mistreating their artists, leading many to leave in search of better opportunities. While SME has shown signs of improvement, particularly when they are sued, it is crucial for potential artists to be aware of their reputation. If you're considering working with SME, it's advisable to gather evidence and prepare yourself to sue if necessary. Their bad reputation has led to a pattern of favorable court outcomes for artists who have taken legal action against them.
The YG Scandal and Its Impact
YG Entertainment, on the other hand, has a more complex history. The company has been involved in numerous scandals, including allegations of unethical management practices, mistreatment of artists, and even ties to criminal activities. Recent years have seen the company deal with the aftermath of its CEO's prison sentence and the controversial debut of a new girl group despite financial difficulties. The company is also known for its tendency to leverage controversial situations, such as leaking dating scandals of artists like Lisa and Jisoo from Blackpink, to exert pressure on them. These actions often involve the use of media to spread misinformation, regardless of the truth.
The Black Label Controversy
Black Label, a production company partially managed by Teddy, the genius producer behind Big Bang, 2ne1, and Blackpink, has faced its own controversies. Teddy, who is himself a high-profile artist and producer, managed to distance himself from YG’s unethical practices. However, the company’s past has left a mark on its reputation. Trainees under YG Entertainment have reported food shortages and financial mismanagement during their training periods, often attributed to the greed of the management. When the group became successful, these issues were seemingly prevented. Despite this, many ex-artists involving themselves in drug or sex scandals have been implicated, highlighting YG’s place in the industry’s less-than-ideal practices.
Conclusion: The Choices Lie with the Individual
The choice between YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment depends on an individual's priorities and tolerance for risk. If you have a background with criminal ties or connections to gangs, YG Entertainment might offer more freedom. However, for most aspiring artists, it's crucial to steer clear of such environments. The industry as a whole is fraught with challenges, and while companies like YG and SME have their downsides, others such as HYBE and JYP Entertainment offer more supportive and professional environments.