Monsta X members, especially Joohoney, have been open about their mental health struggles. Joohoney shared an emotional letter with fans explaining how he was dealing with anxiety and feeling mentally weak, which led him to take a break from activities. This openness helps reduce the stigma around mental health issues, which is important in South Korea where such topics are not often discussed openly.
In South Korea, mental health is becoming a more significant concern, with the country having one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Many K-pop idols face intense pressure and stress, which can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. As a result, more idols are speaking out about their struggles, which helps create a supportive environment for others to do the same.
The K-pop industry is slowly changing by acknowledging the importance of mental health. For instance, the number of counseling cases for K-pop stars has increased significantly over the years. This shift towards prioritizing mental well-being is crucial for the health and happiness of these performers. By being open about their mental health, Monsta X and other K-pop groups are helping to normalize conversations about emotional well-being and encouraging fans to prioritize their own mental health as well.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in K-pop idols taking breaks to focus on their mental health, which shows that the industry is gradually becoming more supportive of mental health awareness. This trend is not only beneficial for the idols themselves but also for their fans, who are inspired by their honesty and courage.