A representative “A” from JDB Entertainment is at the center of an infidelity scandal involving a member of an underground idol group, commonly referred to as jihadol, bringing newfound public attention to this little-known segment of the music industry.
On June 17, allegations surfaced claiming that “A,” a figure affiliated with JDB Entertainment (home to many famous comedians such as Kim Junho), had engaged in an inappropriate relationship with “B,” a member of a girl group.
According to reports, the representative had an affair with a member of an underground idol group, and a video related to the relationship circulated online. As a result, “A” resigned from his position, and “B” terminated her contract with her agency.
The agency representing “B,” who had remained active in the underground idol scene until recently, issued the following statement:
“Group ‘C,’ which included our former artist ‘B,’ has given serious thought to this matter. After considering both the members’ artistic direction and emotional stability, the decision was made to end the contract with EFG Music.”
The agency added:
“In light of the overall situation, EFG Music will temporarily suspend all activities. The future of the company—including whether or not operations will continue—will be determined after internal restructuring and legal consultation.”
These statements strongly suggest that the group is on the verge of disbanding.
In the wake of the controversy, many netizens have expressed curiosity about the “underground idols,” or 지하 아이돌 (jihadol, short for jihayeong idol), a concept that remains relatively unfamiliar to the general public.
Jihadols are idols who don’t appear on mainstream media like TV or radio, but instead perform live in smaller concert venues, especially in neighborhoods like Hongdae in Seoul. Even within South Korea’s broader idol fandom, this concept is still not widely recognized.
This underground idol model originates from Japan, where idols perform in intimate venues, building close and direct relationships with fans. Since around 2019, about 30 to 40 jihadol groups have emerged in Korea, adopting this approach.
Japan’s famous girl group AKB48 also began within the underground idol system. They gained a devoted fanbase by branding themselves as “idols you can meet anytime,” later expanding their influence through fan-voting systems that allowed fans to choose the active members of the group. This model helped them break into the mainstream music scene, where they remain hugely popular.
In Korea, groups such as PRINCESS PROJECT (Sogongnyeo Project) and NEKIRU are considered among the first-generation jihadol acts.
Other groups include DENPAMARU, H7KD, NTORE, and XIDENT. Some of these artists are involved in songwriting and creative production themselves, showcasing a more authentic, self-driven artistic identity.
However, the culture is still heavily influenced by the Japanese model, both in terminology and system, which has led to some disappointment. Many feel that Korea is simply following Japan’s lead without fully developing its own distinct identity within this subculture.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Yonhap News
