Long-haul flights can be incredibly tedious, and sitting in Economy Class for extended periods often makes the experience even more uncomfortable. K-Pop idols, who frequently travel the globe, often face this challenge.
In some instances, different idol groups might be on the same flight for a shared event. But what happens when there aren’t enough seats in Business Class for everyone? How do these idols decide which team members will fly in Business Class and which will have to settle for Economy?
Former SISTAR member Soyou, who has experienced numerous flights, sheds light on this topic. On a recent episode of SBS’s “Dolsing Fourmen,” Soyou, along with Girls’ Generation’s Hyoyeon and Super Junior’s Heechul, shared their insights about traveling as idols.
Lee Sang Min, a member of the popular first-generation K-Pop group Roora, revealed, “When teams travel together for a show, instead of dividing rooms by gender, they are divided by rank. Roora always got the top floor.”
Soyou further explained that when there are too many idols on a single flight, priority is given based on their debut years.
“If there are too many idols, seating is determined by debut year. If you debuted earlier, you get to sit in Business Class. Otherwise, you’ll have to sit in Economy,” said Soyou.
Comedian Kim Jun Ho commented on the difficulties faced by those in Economy Class, sharing an anecdote about his own embarrassment.
“It hurts my pride… I once flew to Japan and was in Economy Class. The flight attendants told me that actor Yoo Ji Tae was seated in Business Class,” Kim Jun Ho recounted.
Known for being close friends who attended the same university, Kim Jun Ho admitted his discomfort with the situation.
“I approached Yoo Ji Tae in Business Class and told him that I should have been seated there as well,” he added.
Pros and Cons of K-Pop Idol Seating on Planes
One major advantage of having K-Pop idols in Business Class is the enhanced comfort and privacy it provides. Business Class seats offer more space, better recline options, and improved amenities, which can be crucial for idols who are often traveling long distances for their schedules. This additional comfort helps them stay rested and ready for their next performance or appearance.
On the other hand, the downside of this arrangement is the potential for creating a hierarchy within the group. When some members are seated in Business Class while others are relegated to Economy, it can lead to feelings of inequality and affect group dynamics. This seating arrangement can sometimes create tensions among members, which might impact their teamwork and overall morale.
For idols flying in Economy Class, the primary benefit is the opportunity to interact more closely with fans. Being in Economy Class increases the chances of fans encountering their idols in a more relaxed setting, which can be a memorable experience for both parties. This direct interaction fosters a stronger connection between the idols and their fanbase, enhancing the fans’ overall experience.
However, the cons of Economy Class seating include reduced comfort and fewer amenities. Idols in Economy Class may face challenges such as limited legroom, less reclining space, and less privacy. These factors can make long flights particularly grueling for idols who need to maintain their energy levels and appearance for public engagements.
Ultimately, the seating arrangements on planes reflect broader issues of hierarchy and privilege within the K-Pop industry. While Business Class provides essential comfort for some, it also highlights the disparities between different members of the same group. Balancing these dynamics and ensuring the well-being of all members is crucial for maintaining harmony and efficiency within idol groups.