K-pop musically speaking is just plain garbage, "highly produced, sugary boy- and girl-bands with slick dance routines and catchy tunes." they cater to Asian lovelorn teens
but if you read this other BBC news article " The dark side of South Korean pop" you might understand how the business model works
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-pacific-13760064
"Selling singles is no way for a pop star to make money these days. Most artists find that touring and merchandise sales are more lucrative."
"their 13-year-contract was too long, too restrictive, and gave them almost none of the profits from their success. "
"despite working long hours for almost two years, their parents were "heartbroken" at how little they were getting paid. (...) K-Pop is expensive to produce. The groups are highly manufactured, and can require a team of managers, choreographers and wardrobe assistants, as well as years of singing lessons, dance training, accommodation and living expenses. (...) that after the company recoups its costs, there is sometimes little left for the performers"
So in several ways they are exploited, albeit not sexually