K-Pop Obsession Led Woman To Take S$70K Loan Behind Husband’s Back

How far is too far when it comes to supporting your favourite idol?

A woman in South Korea’s obsession with a male idol spiralled so far out of control that she neglected her family and secretly took out loans in her husband’s name, leading to the breakdown of their marriage.

Sharing his story on YTN radio’s show, the woman’s husband, a man in his 40s known as Mr A, revealed his wife became obsessed two years ago with a male idol who rose to fame from a survival audition programme.

The couple, who have been married for years, have a 10-year-old daughter.

After discovering the idol, the woman began closely following his activities. She spent most of her time voting to boost his rankings on online music charts, purchasing albums, and taking part in fan support events, meaning she had to spend long hours away from home.

Mr A initially saw no harm in his wife’s behaviour, believing it was simply her way of relieving stress, and felt there was no reason to interfere.

However, her obsession gradually intensified. She began neglecting their daughter’s school routine, as well as family responsibilities and household matters.

Mr A only realised the severity of the situation when he received a bank notification informing him of his outstanding loans. Without his knowledge or consent, his wife had taken his personal seal to apply for overdraft loans in his name. She also racked up credit card charges, and the total debt eventually amounted to around 80 million won (S$70,000).

According to Mr A, most of the money was spent on birthday advertisements for the idol displayed on electronic billboards at Seoul’s Gangnam Station, as well as bulk-buying up to 500 albums at a time to boost her chances of securing a spot at fan signing events.

When Mr A confronted his wife, she did not apologise. Instead, she responded indignantly: “Money can be earned again. But if our oppa’s ranking drops, can you compensate for that?”

Her reaction left Mr A completely disheartened.

He shared that he has since decided to file for divorce and plans to seek custody of their daughter.

And that’s what happens when one takes their obsession too far.

Photos: tvN, Mokkoji Korea