K-pop fans in China are paying for the immersive experience of being an idol for a few hours and getting closer to the dream life of their favourite stars.
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Idol experience studios have sprung up in first and second tier Chinese cities in recent months.
They offer classic costumes worn by famous K-pop idols, and provide authentic-looking scenes such as production studios, signing events where the “idols” meet and greet their fans, and JYP entertainment’s famous dance practice studio with star-shaped lights on the ceiling.
The studios also provided a famous photo backdrop, the plum-coloured wall at MBC TV where many idols take portraits after taking part in the programme Show! Music Core.
The studios usually charge between 200 and 500 yuan (US$28 and US$70) for a three-hour experience.
The price varies according to the number of costumes the customer tries on and takes photos with, and whether or not they need to hire a photographer or a make-up artist.