KCON is facing backlash for allegedly paying artists with exposure instead of money at KCON LA 2025.
According to an exclusive report from Mydaily, agencies were required to cover all costs — airfare, accommodation, rental cars, and meals — for their staff and artists. Costs reportedly hit ₩100 million KRW (about $72,300 USD) for one agency sending 20 people.
The controversy blew up after agencies revealed that CJ ENM, the organizer, promised meals at the venue but only offered them if idols returned during free hours. Many groups say they had to cover meal costs themselves.
A source from an unnamed agency told Mydaily:
We knew in advance that we would have to pay for flights and hotels, but when we arrived, we found out that proper meals weren’t provided and we even had to pay for other rental fees. It was shocking.
Artists who performed on the main stage, like those on M! Countdown, had flights and hotels paid by CJ ENM. But other performers reportedly received no appearance fees. Instead, CJ ENM only covered flights and lodging, even though tickets were sold to large audiences.
Auxiliary staff, such as hair and makeup teams, were also paid out of pocket by agencies. Mydaily says smaller agencies lost tens of millions of won attending KCON LA 2025.
CJ ENM responded with a statement highlighting opportunities for networking and exposure:
In addition to offering the opportunity to perform for free, we invite local professionals in the music industry and provide both networking and promotional opportunities. The performances and stage content is shared globally through YouTube, Mnet Plus, and other channels. Artists get to interact closely with fans on-site. Their participation is carried out voluntarily based on their agency’s discretion, after considering these benefits.
— CJ ENM official
Mydaily noted that large concerts usually guarantee appearance fees and cover travel and meals. KCON’s approach is seen as exploiting smaller groups under the guise of exposure. The controversy is gaining traction as agencies speak out about these harsh costs.
