MOVIE NIGHT: How to become a K-pop idol as a foreigner #2 | The Skills

Hi Guys! I'm back again with part 2 of the last video I posted. This video explains more in-depth about which skills you should REALLY improve on if you want to have a good chance at becoming a K-pop idol one day. I hope this video helps you out!





Sit back, (maybe get a pen/pencil and paper [for notes of course] ) and ENJOY

MOVIE NIGHT: Korea Today-Next generation K-Pop girl groups 2015년 걸그룹 세대교체 열풍

Hi Guys! I'm back with another video for tonight. This one talks mostly about 4th generation girl groups and how they are getting their popularity through mostly social media (like YouTube, Fancams, Facebook, etc...). Some of the big named 4th generation girls group that are mentioned in this video are Hello Venus, Sonamoo, and EXID.



This video showed me how much of an influence social media has nowadays and I thought that this would be a good video to share to you all who want to become K-pop/J-pop/C-pop/etc idols some day, whether your Asian or not, I feel like the BEST way to go about that is EXPOSURE! Get as much exposure as you possibly can. Make a YouTube channel showing off your talents, make a Facebook fan page so you can communicate with your fans more and tell them about upcoming events that you'll be doing. Make a twitter account, HECK go and make an Instagram account and post pictures of your daily life and new activities. The way to get someone to notice you is to ALWAYS STAY IN THEIR FACE!  If you want to be even more appealing to the companies you want to be signed to go ahead and start your own fan base, make a name for yourself ALREADY! Don't wait for a company to make you famous, HUSTLE and try to already be famous ^_~.



But any-who, I hope this helps you guys out a little and gives you some new ideas. I also hope by reading this passage and watching this video that you get a different perspective of the industry and how you could possibly break through the industry itself.



Thank you! Seeya around BYEZ ^_~ <3

2015 LOEN·STARSHIP GLOBAL AUDITION CF #1 (2015 로엔·스타쉽 글로벌 오디션 CF #1)

Hi Guysss!!!! Watz Up?! I'm back with another for you all to look forward to. Starship and Leon are teaming up this time and they are having a Global Audition.



Although they say it's Global they are only going to Los Angeles, CA, USA and Toronto, Canada. So if you are able to go I say GO FOR IT!!!  Whether you are Asian or not I think you should go because you get more hands-on experience and more opportunities to get your name out there. Also you never know what might happen you could possibly become a Starship/Leon trainee ^_~ So BEST OF LUCK to ALL of my people out there that are going. May you do your best and strive for excellence!  FIGHTING!!!!!!!!









More Information:



2015 LOEN·STARSHIP GLOBAL AUDITION CF #1 (2015 로엔·스타쉽 글로벌 오디션 CF #1) 

No.1 K-POP Companies, LOEN·STARSHIP Entertainment Are Looking for the Next K-POP STAR!
Apply Now :) ☞ http://www.iloen.com/globalaudition 

2015 LOEN·STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT GLOBAL AUDITION 
▶ Los Angeles in USA _ 2015.03.28 / Toronto in Canada _ 2015.04.04

▶ Qualification
Anyone age of 12 ~ 25 (Regardless of gender and nationality)
▶ Category
Singer, Rapper, Dancer, Actor, Songwriter/Lyricist
▶ How to Apply 
1. Visit our website www.iloen.com/globalaudition 
2. Download an application form and Fill it out 
3. Send the application to globalaudition@iloen.com 

Movie Night: How to become a K-pop idol as a foreigner #1 | Introduction

Hi guys long time no see. ^_^ I have a good reason for not seeing you guys which I will talk about in my next blog post but today I wanted to share this video I ran up upon a while ago and it has given me more motivation and encouragement to really REALLY try to break into the Korean music industry.



The man that is talking in this video is named, Jun. He has been living in South Korea for 4 going on 5 years now and is currently a CEO of his own Korean entertainment company, Areia Creations Global Entertainment.



I feel that this video would shine some light on this topic and I hope that you guys take something from it and apply it to yourself to improve your chances of becoming a K-pop idol/star.







Sit back, maybe grab a pen/pencil and paper (for notes of course), relax and ENJOY!!! ^_^

My Thoughts on Non-Asians coming into the Korean Music Industry (in essay format)

This is my essay I wrote in my English and it discusses the topic of Non-Asians wanting to come into the K-pop world. ENJOY!!! ^_^

Non-Asians in K-pop

The Gloss, is a new and upcoming rookie K-pop girl group consisting of four members. The girls are extremely talented and pretty girls and no one would second guess them and assume immediately that they are all Asian; until they look closer. One member in the group is not of Asian descent at all. Her name is Olivia and she is of European descent born and raised in France. She is planning to debut with the group very soon. To the K-pop community this is startling; a Non- Asian in a K-pop group is uncommon and hadn’t exist until now, But for those who are new to K-pop I’ll explain the situation.

            Korean popular music, abbreviated K-pop, is a fairly new genre of music that originated in South Korea. It is known for it’s addictive beats, complicated choreography, creative concepts, and a swimming pool full of attractive boys and girls in great make-up with a stylistic fashion sense. The love for K-pop is rapidly spreading around the world. There’s Black, White, Hispanic, young and old people all bumping to the electronic melodies of K-pop, but it wasn’t always this way. K-pop was first introduced in 1992 by a three member boy group called, Seo Taiji the boys.  They were the creators and pioneers of the popular growing music genre today. They took Korea by storm with this new genre of music. Back then K-pop was strictly a “Korean thing”. There were only Koreans allowed to be in the groups and that’s understandable because it was something that originated in Korea. It wasn’t until later on that it would change. In 2005, when a 13 member boy group named, Super Junior, came on the scene with a new fresh look. All of the members were Korean besides, one. Hangeng was the first ever Chinese and Non-Korean member in a K-pop group. Since then Korean entertainment companies have been putting not only Chinese members, but also Thai, Japanese and Malaysian members in their companies because of the growing success and popularity of the members in Asia.

            Lately in the K-pop community there is a topic that gets discussed many times on blogs, and forums about since Korean entertainment companies accept Non-Koreans now would they also accept Non-Asians. The reason why this topic is brought up is because Korean entertainment companies are trying to spread K-pop not just in Asia anymore but in America as well; and the argument is whether they need Non-Asians in their K-pop groups to help spread the music genre to the states. Olivia’s entry into the K-pop scene could be the answer to that question. Some people think that “only Asians” need to apply and that people who are not Asian shouldn’t even try because some people don’t like the idea of a Non-Asian as a K-pop star/idol. Others love the idea of a Non-Asian in a k-pop idol group and want to see more Non-Asians in the k-pop scene. Different people have different opinions about whether Non-Asians will actually be accepted as K-pop idols. But regardless of race any one should be able to be a K-pop idol as long as they are willing to learn the language and culture; and if Korean entertainment companies would not accept a talented applicant simply because they were not Asian that would display the racism and discrimination that dwells not only in K-pop but South Korea as a whole.

            In K-pop this topic is brought up constantly on whether Non-Asians can become K-pop idols. Some say no for multiple reasons. In an article a young author stated that “ K-pop is a platform where Asians get to shine, and as an Asian person it makes me happy to see myself getting represented not only in Asia, but internationally as well ” (KpopSecrets).  To the author the main reason why Non-Asians shouldn’t be K-pop stars is because they are simply not Asian. I can understand where they are coming from because K-pop does stand for Korean popular music and is a part of not only Korean culture but also Asian culture. On blogs and forums many people ask whether a Non-Asian could be accepted into a Korean entertainment to become K-pop idols; and many people say no because they believe that applicants need to be Asian or at least half-Asian to be considered. On a Yahoo Answer forum one commentator said, “No. At least you have to be half Asian, preferably half Korean. It's hard enough for KOREANS to become K-pop idols, so just imagine how hard (impossible) it would be for a non-asian. If you want to sing or dance do it in your own country.” (Bazinga) There are plenty of comments that express these same feelings towards Non-Asians in K-pop. But, in the comment I used it stated that to even be considered to become a K-pop idol you must be of Korean descent, whether it is full Korean or half Korean. But there are Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Malaysian idols now and more are being recruited. Times have changed; young hopefuls don’t have to be of Korean descent to be a K-pop idol.  Korean entertainment companies host auditions in other Asian countries like China, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and recently Indonesia. I used that comment to prove that if companies only wanted Koreans than they wouldn’t spend money going to these different places to host auditions.

Many also feel that if someone really wanted to do music they would do it anywhere; and as the commenter claimed if you want to sing or dance do it in your own country.” Since this is a part of Asian pop culture there should only be Asians a part of it; K-pop is how Asians get representation in the music industry and according to the author of KpopSecrets K-pop is the ONLY platform for Asians to be represented.  One of the commenters even stated that “The Korean market is pretty strict when it comes to nationality and stuff. It's pretty hard to pursue your music career in [a] country where [you’re] not really familiar with. Why don't you try out in the country [you’re] living in?” (Bazinga). To this person the idea of a Non-Asian wanting to be a K-pop idol is ridiculous; that they would have a better chance just trying to break into their own companies market. But if that were the case than K-pop music industry shouldn’t try to spread to the American entertainment market and should just stay an “Asian thing”. Korean entertainment companies are constantly producing idol groups with goals, specifically, to enter the American market. For every K-pop idol group that debuts in every interview when they are asked “What are their main future long-term goals as K-pop idols?” Every one of them says to become GLOBAL international stars; they can’t do that if they only promote in Asia. The three main companies in Korea such as, JYP entertainment, SM entertainment and YG entertainment are constantly trying to promote their groups in America. In 2009, JYP began promoting their first idol girl group, The WonderGirls, in the US performing the English version of their song “Nobody” and opening on tour with the Jonas Brothers. Their song reached number seventy-six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This act made the WonderGirls the first South Korean group to enter the charts (WonderGirls-Wikipedia). In 2008, SM entertainment solo artist, BoA, made her English debut with the single “Eat You Up”; it made it to number nine on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart. It was even remixed with a feature from well-known rapper, Flo-Rida. She did this in pursuit to become a world renowned artist like Janet Jackson (BoA-Wikipedia). Also in 2008, YG entertainment’s solo artist, Se7en, released his first English track “Girls” featuring the legendary female rapper, Lil Kim. “Se7en 's "Girls" music video premiered on BET 106 & Park on June 2, 2009” (Seven-Wikipedia). These are just a few of the many attempts the Korean entertainment market have done trying to break into the American market. If they would have just stayed in Asia the idols and companies would be limited to their level of popularity. They also wouldn’t be able to collaborate with other artist from other countries other than their own; and it would be limiting the overall revenue of the idols and the company. Why would any company want to do that?

            It’s understandable that some people would want K-pop to stay the way it is now; to some having a non-Asian in K-pop would make K-pop not K-pop anymore. In a YouTube video I watched there were two American girls giving their opinions about whether Non-Asians would make it the K-pop music industry. One stated that “I feel that this just isn’t going to work, because when I got into K-pop you know what I wanted to see?...Asians! because honestly, Asians are gorgeous, I love Asian cultures and that’s what I wanted to see…if I wanted to watch Europeans, Americans, Canadians, South Americans whatever yourselves maybe I would watch your genre of music, But I’m watching K-pop because I like Asians and everything about it.” (Kpopwrapup) To her K-pop wouldn’t feel the same it would’ve lost all its meaningfulness and essence of what makes it so unique. To some others it may not be the fact that they are Non-Asian but the fact that they don’t look Asian. “Personally, I'm not against it. As long he/she looks Chinese, Korean, Taiwanese, etc. it would be fine. Not being racist but, imagine a black dude in a K-Pop group and singing in Korean. Would it look right?” ( Soompi) Therefore, since they aren’t Asian and don’t look Asian why should they be considered to be part of something that is a part of Asian culture? Why should they be able to become K-pop idols before an actual Asian? Why should Asians accept them into their culture? But, what about the amount of foreigner bands/artist that come to break into the American music industry. Look at all of the greats like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, AC DC, Daft Punk, U2 and the list goes on and on. None of these bands hail from America; for some of them English is not their first language but, because they embraced the American culture and made good music America accepted them with open arms. They were something different and refreshing to see. If America can do this than why not Korea? People say that Korea is not ready for a Non-Asian in the K-pop music industry but, there are people who actually want more Non-Asians in the K-pop industry and think that Korea would accept them as K-pop idols.

Some people think that more Non-Asians should be accepted as K-pop idols because with K-pop constantly spreading throughout the world Korean entertainment companies have been and are still trying to expand into the American market but have not been successful. People think that if a Non-Asian is added into a K-pop group that it might give the companies the edge. They think that adding a Non-Asian would be the key to their success in the American market. In an article it states that Korean entertainment companies are looking for and willing to accept Non-Asians in their companies. “If there are talented applicants, we are going to train them no matter if they are white or black,” Jeong Wook, CEO of JYP, was quoted as saying by Chosun Ilbo…Yang said. “We are going to produce new stars by signing up talents regardless of their nationality or ethnicity.” (Limb) In the article it also stated how in 2012 the numbers of Non-Asians that participated in global auditions hold by the Korean entertainment companies were more than half of total amount of participates. Reasons for this are probably because Non-Asians feel like they have a chance now because entertainment companies have been reaching out to more Non-Asians in multiple ways like hosting global auditions and stating on their websites that they accept anyone regardless of age, gender, race, nationally or ethnicity. With the mere fact that companies are willing to accept Non-Asians into their companies why shouldn't Non-Asians be accepted into K-pop?

Also another reason is because there is always that slim chance that a Non-Asian can succeed in the K-pop industry. There is this blogger and her blog is called, Ask A Korean, the author from the blog was born and raised in Korea and still resides in Korea. Every week the author has people ask them questions about Korea or Korean life and how society is like in Korea. One person asked the question, “how ready do you think Korea is for a foreigner in the K-pop scene? My definition of a foreigner in Korean market would be someone who isn't Korean and does not look visibly Asian.” The Korean responded with the fact that a Non-Asian is already successful in Korea. “The number one band of K-pop in 2012 has three members, all of who [are] young men. Two of this band's members are Korean, but one is not. One of them is a white man from America, named Brad Moore. Mr. Moore has been quite visible in all of the band's activities (including music videos and show programs,) and his whiteness or non-Korean-ness has never been a subject of discussion in Korean people's appreciation of the band.” (AskAKorean). The band’s name is, Busker Busker, and According to the blog post they were the number one K-pop band in 2012, “Busker Busker sold the most number of albums in 2012 in Korea, and their songs were the most downloaded. (They sold significantly more songs online than PSY in 2012 Korea, even with PSY's Gangnam Style.) The band also placed six different songs in the top 10 of Gaon Chart (the most authoritative chart for K-pop) through 2012, and five songs in the top 10 of Billboard's K-pop chart. Busker Busker also took home three Korean Music Awards for 2013, including Best Pop Album and Best Pop Song.” (AskAKorean)  With the success of Busker Busker and maybe the future success of The Gloss this is the little ray of light that Non-Asians need that they may also have a chance to be K-pop idols as well. This gives Non-Asians hope that they could possibly be accepted in the K-pop music industry as well.

Another reason why they would be accepted is also a reason why they would not be accepted, the fact of whether Korea is ready for a Non-Asian to be accepted in the K-pop scene. Some people say the Korea isn’t ready for a Non-Asian to be in the K-pop scene right now. But when the first Non-Korean was added into the picture people would have probably said the same thing. In fact when Hangeng, the first Chinese K-pop idol, debuted with Super Junior in Korea he wore a mask in all the live performances so Koreans wouldn’t know that he was Chinese descent. Once Korea found out they had to do some warming up to the idea but after a while it wasn’t much of an issue anymore and now they have Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Malaysian members and Korea has accepted the idea of them so why wouldn’t they be ready for the idea of a Non-Asian? Some people would say the reason why is because Korea is a very homogeneous society. Most of time (especially with the older generation in the countryside) they would live their entire lives and would have never seen anyone outside their ethnicity. With the younger generation that is not the case because more students are exposed to different ethnicities in their schools because their English teachers are, most of the time, Non-Asians all together. Most of the hate would come from the older generation who don’t know a lot about other cultures and have never had the chance to experience them because of Korea’s lack of diversity in their society. I have a Korean friend and she is from Korea but she came to America with her husband because of his occupation, they will be going back in the summer. She is an older lady with children of her own and I use to help her with her English. One day I was singing and dancing for her and she asked me if I knew what K-pop was and I told her I did. She said I should audition for one of companies in Korea because I could become an idol if I was talented enough. When I heard this it surprised me because I didn't expect to hear that especially from someone of her generation.

That gave me hope that Non-Asians could possibly have a chance to become K-pop idols; and that Koreans aren't so appalled by the idea either. In fact In a YouTube video I watched a man living in Korea stated that he would like to see more Non-Asians in the K-pop music industry. He stated that “I really enjoy seeing…Non-Koreans/Asian people getting into K-pop songs and mixing them. And I would like to see more you know not just Asian but from like…Western countries as well like Non –Asians I would like to see Blacks, Whites, Hispanic and you know all the other ethnicities.” (Uncle JJ) He is a YouTuber and he was born and raised in Korea as well and this is his opinion about Non-Asians becoming K-pop idols. This source shows that there Koreans out there who would like to see Non-Asians in K-pop as well. It is encouraging because it goes against the racist stereotype of Korea and their ideas and feelings of other races embracing their culture and wanting to be a part of it.  

He’s is not the only one that supports the movement many people would like to see more Non-Asians in the K-pop scene. In a discussion forum someone stated “I have thought a lot about this also everyone’s first thought is to say that since you are not Asian you won’t make it but i think times are changing. I helped out the WonderGirls when they opened a concert in Kentucky. NOBODY knew who they were but some gave them a chance. JYP is trying to get his artists to the states. It is only a matter of time before a Non-Asian is in a group. Even Asians in the groups get put down by their community so not everyone will like you (or this mysterious Non-Asian person…” (Yahoo Answers)  This person claims that when people think about a Non-Asian making it into a K-pop peoples first thought would be, no. I think that’s how a lot people think at first. Others comment state “Music has no language or face, it only has two common things: enjoyment & feeling. I'm Asian-American, definitely not Korean, but I've been in love with K-pop for over 10 years. However, I've never minded whether the person who sang my favorite K-pop songs were Korean or not. As long as I like the song then that's all that mattered” (KpopSecrets).  To this person music is still regardless of who’s singing it. If you like it…then you like it.  To another commentator she states that if people always thought that something was impossible to do than there would be little progress in the world.

“So many people say "Don't bother, it has never happened before" But I say, that if everyone always thought like that there would be little development at all in the world. Someone is always the first to do something new, and the kpop industry had already begun to peer overseas wanting to spread to more places than just Asia. But to reach a break-through there they will have to at some point break the racial barrier, or the majority of the American industry won't accept them as too few would find the music and the stars relatable….So if caucasians/afro/african-americans/latinos and all other ethnicities to speak of keep on auditioning and push for this transition, I believe we will see a change in this” ( Non-Asians In Kpop).

In conclusion, to some people Non-Asians shouldn't be accepted as K-pop idols for multiple reasons. One reason is because they aren't Asian and this is the only platform where Asians get to shine and that shouldn't be taken away. Another is because the reason some people got into K-pop is because it was strictly only for Asians to do and they liked that about it and they feel like putting an Non-Asian in it would just take away the reason why they fell in love with it in the first place and it would take away the unique characteristics and essence of K-pop and it would no longer be K-pop. However, I want to make the point that K-pop IS just a music genre just like country, reggae, classical, Hip-pop/R&B and it should be treated as such. It's a music genre and anyone regardless of their race, gender, nationality and age should be able to do it if they want to. I believe that the reason why this is such a huge issue to some people is because they look to K-pop not for the music but the physical aspects of it. Some people watch it and listen to it simply just to look at Asians; it’s like a fetish for them. So I can see why they have a problem with it because if you add a Non-Asian in the mix than you take away the reason they fell in love with K-pop in the first place and they don't want to have their wonderland taken away. But, if that were the case than people would just listen to country when they want to see white people, Hip-pop/R&B when they want to see black people, rock when they want to see Emo and Goth kids, and classical when they want to see old people. But they forget the fact that there is a black guy who is a country singer, there are white rappers and R&B singers, Preppy kids like to bang their heads to Nirvana and Linkin Park just as much as Emo and Goth kids do; and there are young people every day being recognized for their talent in classical music. You can't just hold certain people to a certain genre because in the end people are people the only thing that differentiates us is our appearance, genes and our race but none of that has anything to do with our different personalities. If a Non-Asian wants to be a K-pop idol why not let them, would it really be that hard to accept them?

WORKS CITED

, Bazinga. "Could a non-asian do kpop?." . : Yahoo Answer , . Print.

"BoA." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 4 May 2014. Web. 4 May 2014.             <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BoA>.

"Can Non-Asian Foreigner Succeed in the K-pop Scene?."Ask A Korean!. Google Blogger, 12      June 2013. Web. 8 Feb. 2014. <http://askakorean.blogspot.com/2013/06/can-non-asian-            foreigner-succeed-in-k.html>.

Kpopwrapup.“'Westerners' in K-Pop... Aye or Nay?!.”Youtube.Youtube, Jun 16. 2012. Web. 20   April. 2014

Limb , Jae-Un. "Foreign young talents flock to K-pop auditions." Korea.net: Gateway to Korea.   KOCIS: Korean Culture and Information Service, 22 Oct 2012. Web. 21 Jan 2014. <http://www.korea.net/NewsFocus/Culture/view?articleId=103123>.

"Non Asian K-pop Chances." Apr 2009. Yahoo , Online Posting to Yahoo Answers . Web. 21       Apr. 2014. <https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090901181644AAlxrsk>.

"Non-Asians in Kpop." March 2011. Soompi, Web. 21 Apr. 2014.             <http://forums.soompi.com/discussion/359204/non-asians-in-kpop>.

"ONE ASIAN’S PERSPECTIVE: NON-ASIAN KPOP IDOLS." KpopSecrets . Tumblr, 18       February 2013. Web. 21 Jan. 2014.     <http://kpopsecrets.tumblr.com/post/43392636518/one-asians-perspective-non-asian-            kpop-idols>.

"Seven (Korean singer)." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 23 Mar. 2014. Web. 4 May 2014.             <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_(Korean_singer)>.

"The Gloss' Olivia: Whiteness and Representation in K-pop." seoulbeats Token White Member      The Problem With Foreign Kpop Idols Comments. Seoulbeat, 6 June 2013. Web. 20 Apr.        2014. <http://seoulbeats.com/2013/06/the-gloss/>.

"The Great Soompi Debate: Are you in favor of non-Koreans joining K-pop groups?."Soompi.      Soompi , 1 Jan. 2012. Web. 20 Apr. 2014.      <http://forums.soompi.com/discussion/373736/the-great-soompi-debate-are-you-in-favor-  of-non-koreans-joining-k-pop-groups>.

Uncle JJ. “[Misc] None Korean becoming a KPOP star?” Youtube.Youtube. 16 Jun. 2013. Web    21 April 2014.

"Wonder Girls." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 13 Apr. 2014. Web. 4 May 2014.             <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonder_Girls>.

SM Entertainment 2015 Asia "Global" Audition

Hi Guyz! I'm back and it looks like 2015 is coming with a blaze but 2014 isn't even finished yet? We still go Christmas ^_^ But anyway that's neither here nor there today I come with another audition. JYP audition 2014 is wrapping up I hope everyone did their best and if you weren't able to do your best (like me -.-) at least you tried and the 1st mistake you can make is if you don't try. I hope everyone met LOTS of people, made lots of friends and had an overall WONDERFUL experience!!! ^_^


Now moving on to the topic at hand SM entertainment have released information about their 2015 audition. Now they say it's a "Global" audition but it's more like an Asian audition because they are only going to places/countries IN Asia! So "Global" I think NOT! But it is okay, if you happen to be in one of these countries during the time of the audition to go and apply! If not, then don't sweat it there are many more companies that will be hosting auditions so keep your head up! ^_^

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***READ THIS!!!***
Now we all know that 2014 was not SM's year and the majority of it (if not ALL of it) was SM's fault. But when you sign with companies make sure to read these contracts and have a lawyer and/or your parents present when you are signing these contracts because....yall ain't nobody go time to NOT be gettin' paid! I DON'T VOLUNTEER!!! >.<  They will make sure that you get the best commendations and conditions so in future you won't wind up having to sue your company like a LOT of idols have to now because this industry AIN'T NO JOKE! it's all about money...BUT if you know the rules to play the game you can still win (if that makes sense).  Again, this not meant to discourage, this is meant to provide wisdom. I still want to be K-pop star/idol, I STILL WANT TO DO THIS but at the same time I know what I'm up against and I see the reality of it. When you audition for SM just know that, you are auditioning FOR SM! same goes with EVERY company. Watch out for yourself and stay safe.
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YOU SHOULD AUDITION FOR......JYP ENTERTAINMENT!!!

Since JYP entertainment are hosting global auditions right now I bet A LOT of people are panicking because they can't find a song to match their voice that will blow the judges away or they are looking for the right hip-hop song to dance to that will show off their amazing Taemin/Taeyang/Jay Park-like dance moves right?! ^_^ Well I thought it would be a good idea to introduce people to JYP ent. so they can understand JYP's style and what he is looking for in trainee/future JYP artist.

So with all that said LET'S GET STARTED!!!

JYP entertainment is a South Korean record label founded by Park Jin-Young on April 25, 1997.  It is a recording and talent agency based in Seoul. It produces and markets music recording/publishing, record manufacturing/sales, artist management, concert production, and new artist discovering/training. It is known as one of the companies in the BIG 3, mean it is in the top 3 entertainment companies along with YG and SM. 

Address: JYP Center, 123-50, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Website: http://english.jype.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jypnation
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jypentertainment



Some of JYP's Artists/former Artist 

GOT7

Group Name: GOT7
Debut: January 16, 2014
Member(s): [left to right/bottom to top] Bam-Bam, Jr./Junior, Mark, JB, Jackson, Youngjae & Yugyeom
Label: JYP entertainment
Origin: South Korea
Gerne: Hip-Hop/R&B & Pop
Debut song: "Girls,Girls,Girls"
Fanclub Name: IGOT7



Facts:

• Jr and JB are a sub-unit called, JJ Project that debuted before GOT7. And they also debuted as actors in Dream High 2. 
• "The members of Got7 were recruited as trainees of JYP Entertainment after going through various auditions. JB and Jr., both from South Korea, signed with JYP after they were tied for first place at the 5th JYP Trainee Open Recruitment in 2009. Mark, who is from Los Angeles, California, was scouted by an agent outside of his high school and was successfully recruited after passing a global audition in 2010. Jackson, a former member of the Hong Kong National Fencing Team, became a trainee after passing global auditions held in Hong Kong in 2011. Youngjae was a contestant in an online audition for JYP and won the contest and was successfully recruited. He only trained for 7 months and was the last one to join the group. Bambam from Thailand failed his JYP global audition in 2007, but was recruited after winning first runner-up at the 2010 LG Entertainer Contest. Yugyeom, who had competed in house dance competitions, was recruited in 2011" (Wikipedia). 

This is their 1st comeback video titled, "A"

This is their debut song "Girls,Girls,Girls"











Sunmi 

Real Name: Lee Sun Mi (이선미)
Stage Name: Sunmi or Mimi
Birthdate: May 2, 1992
Solo Debut: August 20, 2013
Debut Song: "24 hours"
Label: JYP entertainment
Genre: Pop
Origin: South Korea

Facts:

• Originally debuted as a member of WonderGirls in 2007 but left in 2010 to focus on her studies. 

This is her latest title track, "Full Moon". It was a composed by Brave Brothers and JYP. It was 1st collaboration project with Brave Brothers. 

This is Sunmi's debut song, "24 hours" composed by Park Jin-Young (aka JYP). 

HA:TFELT

Real Name: Park Ye-eun
Stage Name: Ha:tfelt
Birthdate: May 26, 1989
Solo Debut: July 30, 2014
Debut Song: "Ain't Nobody"
Label: JYP entertainment
Origin: South Korea


Facts:

• Known as Yenny of the WonderGirls
• Wrote all of her songs for her solo debut album

This is her debut song "Ain't Nobody"

The is (to me) the best live performance of the song.















MISS A 

Group Name: Miss A
Members: (left to right) Fei, Min, Jia, Suzy
Debut: July 1, 2010
Debut Song: "Bad Girl Good Girl"
Label: JYP entertianment
Gerne: Pop, Dance,electropop & Mandopop
Origin: South Korea
Fanclub Name: Say A

Facts:

• This is a Chinese-Korean girl group, Fei & Jia are from China and Min & Suzy are from Korea. 
• Miss A stands for "Miss Asia"
• The group was originally a five membered group but two were taken out; one of those two being Lim, she is currently a member of The WonderGirls. 
• Suzy is a well-known actress
• Suzy was a model for an online mall prior to being signed with JYP
• " Lee Min Young, a solo artist and a long-time trainee in America, also made a cameo appearance in the music video. She had auditioned when she was in the 6th grade, and she traveled to the U.S., where she trained for 6 years. She came back in 2008 to continue activities in Korea. During her time in New York, she studied at the Repertory Company High School in Manhattan. It was later announced that she would be joining the group under her stage name, Min, for their South Korean debut on April" (Wikipedia) 

This is their latest single titled "Hush"

This is their title track "Bad Girl Good Girl"

This is their first comeback after their debut titled "Breathe"

This is another one of their comebacks titled "Touch".















2PM

Group Name: 2PM
Members: [left to right] Jay Park (former leader & member), Junho, Junsu (now known as Jun.K/Minjun), Nickhun, Chansung, Wooyoung & Taecyong
Debut: September 4, 2008
Debut Song: "10 out of 10"
Label: JYP entertainment
Genre: Hip-pop/R&B, Pop, Dance
Origin: South Korea
Fanlub Name: HOTTEST

Facts:

• Known as the "Beastly Idols" "While most Korean boy bands at the time adopted a "pretty boy"image, 2PM constructed a tough and macho beast-like image when they made their debut" (wikipedia). 
• "The members of 2PM all auditioned (except Nichkhun, who was scouted) to become part of JYP Entertainment. Some members already had experience in the entertainment industry, including Jun. K, who had won several singing competitions. Ok Taecyeon, Lee Junho and Hwang Chansung had participated in the show SuperStar Survival. Part of the members had previously lived in the U.S., ex-leader Jaebeom in the Seattle area, Nichkhun in Southern California, while Taecyeon spent seven years in Massachusetts before returning to Korea" (wikipedia). 
• "Originally, the members of 2PM were part of a larger group known as One Day. A documentary called Hot Blood Men captured the group's training days. In this documentary, former member Jaebeom finished at the top spot and received the most fan votes. It also featured the elimination of three trainees from the group: Lee Swichi, Im Daehun, and Yoon Doo-joon were all cut...By the end of the training process, One Day had been reduced to an eleven-member group. However, the band was then split into 2AM and 2PM" (wikipedia). 
• "Jaebeom was chosen to serve as the group's leader, as he was the oldest member and also the one where all the members acknowledged as the most talented one. He played key roles in several of the band's early singles and associated music videos" (wikipedia). 

This is their latest single "Go Crazy" composed by member Jun.K himself.

This is their debut single " 10 out of 10"
















This is one of their pervious comebacks it was release right before their "Go Crazy" promotions. The song is titled "A.D.T.O.Y (All Day I Think Of You).

This is another one of their many comebacks titled "HANDS UP".

This is their 1st after their debut titled "Again and Again". Jaebeom was still with the group at this point.














other aritst that are currently under JYP are Beak A Yeon, 15&, 2AM, JJ Project and Bernard Park. JYP use to also be home to Bi(Rain) [he's was under CUBE], G.O.D, JOO, and San E...pretty cool right?! ^_^



Now I bet you are thinking about auditioning for JYP entertainment but you want to know things like trainee life in JYP, how to audition and all that stuff. Well....here you go


Auditioning for JYP entertainment

JYP is looking for talents in the following four categorizes ONLY, singer (dancer/vocalist), Actress/Actor, Model, VC/VJ. Anyone can audition regardless of age, race/ethnicity, nationality and gender. JYP entertainment offers several ways for talented hopefuls to audition.

Q: What does JYP entertainment look for in potential trainees?

A: JYP specifically said he goes for manners over talent. "You can be talented but what is the use if you have no manners?" quoted by CEO Park Jin-Young (JYP) himself. He likes people who are natural and who can't hide from being themselves. I say manners are important! Having manners and being respectful can take you places that you can't get to with just talent alone...but having some talented never hurt either. ^_~   He also looks for passion. "Sincerity and passion are the most important" quoted by JYP. You must have the passion to sing, you must have the passion to dance and you MUST have the passion to be the best! 

Here are some article(s) discussing the topic of what JYP looks for.
http://www.herworldplus.com/lifestyle/stuff-do/jyp-dishes-how-become-k-pop-star
http://www.allkpop.com/article/2012/04/j-y-park-reveals-his-standards-for-selecting-jyp-entertainment-trainees
http://asianuniverse.net/forums/SM_YG_JYP_Entertainment_s_Casting_Trainees_System_t64498.html

1. Online Auditions 
2. Mail/Post Auditions UPDATE JYP no longer has mail/post auditions! 
3. Live/Global Auditions 

ONLINE AUDITIONS 

       The online audition is the simplest and cheapest way to audition for JYP. Just go to http://audition.jype.com/  and create an account, complete an application form and upload a video/audio/photo of yourself. After submition if, the judges see potential you will be notified through email telling you the next steps of your audition process. Even though this method of audition is free and more convenient  I have never heard of anyone being noticed or passing through this type of audition. I'm not saying it doesn't work it's just that I haven't heard of anyone passing or getting through the first stage of auditions with this method. 

Online Auditions = More convenient BUT Less effective 

MAIL/POST AUDITIONS

      The mail/post auditions will cost some money because you have to pay for shipping and handling and all that and it's a little more complicated because you have to go through a little more trouble but it's not that bad. With mailing auditions you have to physically send your stuff (such as application form, video, photos, etc...) to JYP headquarters in Seoul, Korea. I have done this method twice I think and I do prefer more than the online auditions because I know that they will get it in their hands and they will see it. Their people that have passed from this audition you can view their videos here ----> JYP Audition Youtube channel and if you want to know things like the address and what to include inside the package CLICK HERE!!! Once you submit you have to wait for the company to contact you through email to tell you what the next steps are in your audition. 

Mail Auditions = Less convenient BUT little more effective 

LIVE/OPEN AUDITIONS 

      There are two type of live auditions, Open auditions or Global auditions. Open auditions are held at the JYP center located in Seoul, Korea and are open every 1st and 3rd Sunday at 2pm. Global auditions are held  annually/yearly but definitely not as often as Open auditions. Global auditions are auditions that the company holds in other countries outside of South Korea (such as, USA/Canada, Europe, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, etc...) Global auditions are very effective because if you get chosen from these auditions you are automatically given a position as a trainee in the company, which makes the competition much more fierce because EVERYONE that auditions wants that chance so you aren't just competing locally but GLOBALLY! But unless you live in South Korea or in a captial/ well-known city like New York, LA, Beijing, Bangkok, Tokyo, etc... it won't be as convenient for you because you will have to travel to one of the closets places that the audition is going to be held and let me tell you IT AIN'T CHEAP! You will have to pay for transportation (like airfare/plane ticket/ train ticket/ gas money/ etc...) and you have to reserve a hotel room because if you live far away you are going to have to sleep somewhere. Plus you have to have spending money for food, shopping and whatever else other extra curriculum activities you want to do! But even though it's expense it is also very fun! I have gone to the YG 2012 Global auditions in New York and the SM 2013 Global auditions in Washington D.C. and I had a BLAST!!! I had great experiences, learned a lot and made many friends that I am still friends with to this day.  Many many MANY K-pop idols have used this method multiple time so it WORKS!!!! 

Open/Live Auditions = Not convenient BUT Most effective 

Here are some of the many audition experience videos on YouTube. These two are the most popular they tell you EVERYTHING from what to bring to the audition, how to prepare for the audition, and what to expect.

Here are audition videos of JYP artist. 

Trainee life in JYP entertainment

Trainee life for anyone in the K-pop is tiring and hard but with perseverance, faith, hard work and determination hopefuls will have the opportunity to graduate from their training and debut. That is the dream of EVERY trainee in ANY company. But we know that trainees have to go to singing classes and dancing classes, but what other skills or what other classes do trainees have to take? Trainees have to undergo A LOT more than what we think they do.

Article: http://wgjjang.wordpress.com/2009/03/24/news-training-life-at-jyp-entertainment/


The information from the article above states, "Training at JYPE is not limited to only singing and dancing lessons. Byeon shared that they also undergo studies in foreign language(s), community service (focusing on handicapped and orphans), reading, and other special lectures that include proper dieting methods, vocal training, anti-smoking, and proper sex education. For the reading portion, they have a book club in which they read and discuss books they believe are good. 

The training ends when all the teachers agree that a student is ready to debut, at which point the student is presented to JYPE President, Park Jin Young. On average, this process takes 3-5 years, but various with individuals. 

JYPE expects that students who “graduate” from their training program to become stars. Not only stars who are good at singing and dancing, but also ones who have proper manners/etiquette, can speak confidently, and have humility". 

I also know that JYP entertainment also give lessons on acrobatics and playing instruments. Also at the end of every month they have monthly evaluations where the trainees have to show how much they have improved and everything they have learned for that month. If the trainee does well in the evaluations they have more opportunities to be in showcases where they get to show more of their talents, they get offers to be back-up dancers for official JYP artist (on live stage and in music videos), they get more opportunities to be scheduled for events/MV&CF appearances, and most important they get a better chance at debuting. 

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Cool right?! JYP sounds like a great company to be under. I want to be in JYP entertainment (or any company) because the overall feel I get from the company it self is that they really can make you a STAR! They really do prepare you well for ANYTHING!!! A LOT of talent has come from JYP, such as G.NA, Dongwook & Hoya (of Infinite), Choa (of AOA), B-Bomb (of Block-B), CL (of 2ne1), Peniel Minhyuk & Sungjae (of BTOB), Hyuna (of 4minute/also former member of WomderGirls), Daehyun (BAP), Xiumin (of EXO), Chorong (of Apink), Hyolyn (of Sistar) etc.... the list goes on; and not just idol wise some of the staff have come from JYP and made their own companies which are quite successful, such as CUBE entertainment & BigHit entertainment. So I think it's safe to say that if you are in JYP entertainment you are in good hands! ^_~