Why K-pop stars are getting backup careers — from dog groomers to insurance agents

From left, Joy, Lee Ji-hyun, and Jung Ga-eun / Captured online

Behind the glamour of South Korea's entertainment industry, an increasing number of celebrities are preparing for life beyond the spotlight.

Facing the uncertainty of careers that can change overnight, several K-pop idols and TV personalities have recently drawn attention for earning professional certifications and building alternative careers — from pet grooming and beauty services to insurance consulting and fitness instruction.

The trend has resonated with many young Koreans, who often discuss "backup plans" and career diversification on social media amid growing economic uncertainty.

Former Secret member Jun Hyo-seong recently revealed that she obtained a pet care certification.

Jun Hyo-seong / Captured from Kim Sook's YouTube channel

Appearing on comedian Kim Sook's YouTube channel, June 15, Jun said she began considering what she might do if she ever left the entertainment industry.

"I earned a pet care manager certification," she said. "I started thinking about what I would do if I were no longer an entertainer, and I realized I wanted to do something that helps animals."

Red Velvet member Joy is pursuing a similar path.

Joy / Captured from MBC

During a recent episode of MBC's reality show "I Live Alone," the singer shared that she is currently studying to become a professional dog groomer.

"If I couldn't continue this job, I thought it would be good to have a practical skill," Joy said. "That's why I decided to learn dog grooming."

Joy, who is preparing for a written licensing exam scheduled for July, also showed viewers her daily training sessions, including practicing cutting techniques.

Former Jewelry member Lee Ji-hyun has already successfully transitioned into a new profession.

After obtaining South Korea's national cosmetology license in 2023, she began working as a marketing director for a hair salon chain in Gyeonggi Province.

Lee Ji-hyun / Captured online

Explaining her decision, Lee said she wanted to find a profession she could continue for many years.

"When I looked for something I could do long-term, beauty work caught my attention," she said. "Salon environments felt familiar because I had spent more than 20 years visiting them almost like a second home."

She added that seeing satisfied customers gives her a sense of accomplishment that is difficult to describe.

Another former Jewelry member, Cho Min-ah, has built a successful second career as an insurance consultant.

After her divorce, Cho began raising her son as a single parent and switched careers. She has since ranked first nationwide multiple times among insurance sales professionals, establishing herself in a completely different field.

Cho Min-ah / Captured from Cho's social media

Television personality Jung Ga-eun has also become known for her willingness to try new careers.

Last year, she passed South Korea's taxi driver qualification exam and later shared videos of herself driving a taxi. In March, she announced that she had also passed an insurance consultant certification exam.

"My future always feels a little uncertain," Jung said. "Getting this qualification feels like taking out a small insurance policy for my own future. It makes me feel very reassured."

Former 4Minute member Nam Ji-hyun has taken a different route.

Nam Ji-hyun / Captured form Cao Lu's channel

After earning eight certifications related to Pilates and fitness instruction, she now operates Barre Square, a fitness studio in Seoul's Gangnam district. Barre is a workout that combines elements of ballet and Pilates through music-based strength training.

Nam has openly embraced the transition, even handing out promotional flyers herself to attract customers.

"Being an idol is glamorous and wonderful," she said. "But because I once stood on stage, I don't think I should stay trapped in that identity while living my life now."

As more Korean celebrities openly discuss preparing for life after entertainment, their stories are drawing attention not only for their career changes but also for highlighting the reality that fame alone does not guarantee long-term stability.

This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.