Q&A for How to Be a K Pop Trainee

They will pay for the fee if you are overseas, most of the times if you are overseas and they ask you to pay, consider it a scam and don't pay the money. And normally it really depends on you, yourself. Trainees have different schedules like school. Some trainees may have dance, then singing, then rapping, then acting, then language it just really depends on you. And normally trainees wake up around 5 am.

You may audition in English or Korean.

Try using earphones while dancing or singing (or at least just an earbud). Close you eyes for a little bit. Then wing it, and for as long as you do it, you'll eventually get used to the feeling of being in front of others while dancing or singing.

It is not strictly necessary to learn how to rap, but developing versatility in your skills can be beneficial.

Yes, if you are selected as a trainee, you might have to continue your education in Korea. If you speak Korean fluently, you can attend a regular school there; otherwise, you may attend an international school like KENT.

You will be notified through a text or a call using the contact information you provided on the audition form.

Every audition is different, some will take a few weeks, and in some cases you could know by the end of the day. On average it takes about a week or two, but if seems to be taking a long time, you could call or email the person in charge of the auditions.

Generally, if the company thinks you are good, then they will offer you a chance to be solo after you've been in a group. But, they may think you would be better being a solo artist, and may just make you solo without a group first.

Many K-pop stars are relatively short by Western standards, so height should not be a major issue. Stylists can work with your height to help you appear taller.

You will probably need to sing, dance, rap, and answer questions about your life and goals.

Koreans will most likely expect an Asian K-Pop artist but don't let that hold you back, as you never know what might be special about you. While age isn't definite, youth is important and you may not that be popular if you are in your 30s + because mostly teenagers listen to K-Pop songs and want to identify with someone in their own age group.

Absolutely. Many trainees start shy, and it can be an excellent opportunity to develop confidence and performance skills.

Companies have several people working on processing online auditions, they do see them all, even though it can take a while to get feedback.

The training is generally free, but if you decide to leave, you may have to repay the costs the company incurred, such as accommodation expenses.

You do not need perfect legs, nor will scars necessarily disqualify you. K-pop agencies typically evaluate overall talent and potential, rather than expecting a flawless physical appearance.

Your company will pay for your food and lodging and generally will also include transportation for when your contract ends. Or, you can save money from your salary to pay for your own transportation.

No. Every company has its own days, months and even years, and they might not even have one at all.

When auditioning with a rap, ensure you know the verse thoroughly. Natural hand gestures, like pointing or small movements, can enhance your performance, but avoid overdoing them as it may come off as awkward. Keeping movements minimal is advisable.

While trainees can be accepted as young as 11, many begin their training in their late teens. If you are under 25, it is still advisable to pursue opportunities, as age limits can vary and exceptions exist.

Some will accept this, but each company has different rules.

Pay attention to the judges and if they ask, you can tell them what you'd prefer. But if they don't ask it would be better to not bring it up because it could make you look demanding.

The company only pays to house you in a dorm. You will pay for transportation, food, and a place to stay until the dorm comes through.

Yes, it is possible. Alexandra Reid, an African American artist, was a member of the K-Pop group Rania. With talent and dedication, you can certainly pursue a career as a K-Pop trainee.

No, it's unlikely they knew Korean fluently when they auditioned. K-pop entertainment companies typically teach Korean to trainees, even from scratch; for example, Amber of F(x), who is ethnically Chinese, learned Korean during her training.

Yes, I know quite a few idols who auditioned with an English song, so I think that would be okay!

No, you have to develop that on your own. In fact, they will look at your signature as a mark of individuality. See How to Sign a Cool Signature for some helpful tips.

Then, unfortunately, you're out of work in that company. You can always try to audition elsewhere, or try again at that company another year, if allowed.

Yes, if you have extraordinary talent, but some companies don't accept that method and you will have to audition online or in South Korea.

Not at all! You can wear glasses or contacts.

Yes, an American can become a K-Pop star with dedication and persistence, though many companies may historically favor Asian talent. To achieve this, you should commit to a rigorous daily routine, typically involving dedicated practice sessions for vocal, dance, or rap skills, often for several hours. Additionally, incorporate consistent physical training, such as an hour-long workout or jog, to build stamina and maintain peak physical condition.