The growing list of J.Y. Park controversies is prompting K-pop fans to question the legacy of the JYP Entertainment founder. Known as the face of one of Korea’s “Big Three” agencies, J.Y. Park is now facing backlash over past and present issues tied to idol mental health, toxic training environments, and alleged religious cult connections.

TG’s VCHA Exit Ignites Industry-Wide Concerns

One of the most talked-about J.Y. Park controversies surfaced with the sudden departure of TG, a 17-year-old member of JYP’s U.S.-based girl group VCHA. On December 7, 2024, she claimed severe mental health decline, burdensome debt, and extreme restrictions while under JYP. Though JYP USA denied the accusations, their legal threat fueled more suspicion. Fans quickly drew connections to past grievances by other idols, reigniting concerns about the company’s treatment of young trainees.

Idol Mental Health Debate Grows Louder

J.Y. Park’s outdated stance on mental health is another controversy. On a past variety show, he advised idols to “look happy even when they’re not,” stating that sadness makes others uncomfortable. Critics slammed this as tone-deaf and harmful, arguing it pressures idols to mask serious emotional distress for the sake of public image—further exposing the fragile state of mental wellness within the industry.

ITZY’s Lia and Signs of Idol Burnout

When ITZY’s Lia went on mental health hiatus, fans supported her—yet many questioned JYP’s role in her burnout. Park’s reputation for pushing image control over emotional health resurfaced, with critics pointing to a rigid system that prioritizes brand over well-being. The incident added another layer to ongoing concerns about how J.Y. Park manages his artists.

Past Abuse Claims by Jay Park and Bang Chan

The J.Y. Park controversies extend back years. Former 2PM member Jay Park described JYP’s early trainee program as militaristic, allegedly involving physical punishment. Though Jay admitted it instilled discipline, he called it dehumanizing and damaging to creativity.

Stray Kids’ Bang Chan added to the concern, revealing that girl trainees like TWICE were once banned from using the company cafeteria due to extreme diet rules. He said he was punished for secretly giving them meal coupons—shocking fans who saw it as proof that appearance was prioritized over basic nutrition.

Troubling Association with R. Kelly

J.Y. Park also collaborated in the 2000s with R. Kelly—now a convicted abuser. While no misconduct was reported, Park admitted that some trainees involved were as young as 15. Fans now view this association as deeply inappropriate, especially amid unconfirmed rumors that the two may have stayed on friendly terms.

Even if indirect, the link to R. Kelly has added another blemish to Park’s record, as fans question the ethical standards applied during his overseas ventures.

Religious Activities Trigger Cult-Like Concerns

J.Y. Park’s religious YouTube channel, “First Fruits,” hosts Bible studies that some Korean netizens have described as cult-like. The terminology, format, and recruitment-like nature of the sessions have caused discomfort—particularly in South Korea, where religious cult scandals are a sensitive issue.

Worries intensified when Park held a seminar in Cebu, Philippines, allegedly using his fame to draw attendees. In 2018, Dispatch also alleged he had ties to the Salvation Sect, known for its connection to the 2014 Sewol Ferry tragedy. Park denied any involvement, but his wife’s reported family link to the sect has fueled persistent speculation.

Public Trust in J.Y. Park Is Eroding

While J.Y. Park has defended his style as visionary and firm, the continued exposure of outdated and questionable practices is changing public sentiment. From idol burnout to religious controversy, the spotlight on J.Y. Park controversies suggests fans want more than just talent—they want ethical leadership.

As K-pop evolves with growing awareness of mental health and artist rights, J.Y. Park’s legacy may hinge on whether he can adapt. The industry is watching—and fans are no longer staying silent.