KPop Auditions

If you are planning to audition for SM Entertainment, JYP, YG, NH Media, etc. here is what I have learned and know thus far about auditions. Don't worry! I'll keep this as updated as possible!

FAQ's:

1) Does it cost money?
No. Other than transportation fees, it should cost nothing. If they ask you to pay, then it probably is a scam. Once a company takes you as a trainee, the fees should be paid for you (food, housing, classes, etc.), but before then, food and transportation is yours to take care of.

2) Are all auditions only in South Korea?
The companies have normally weekly (like SM) auditions in South Korea; however, some bigger companies have a location in the US for others to audition. SM has a weekly audition in Los Angeles, CA. JYP does have a center in NYC, but its normally only opened 1-2 times a year for the global JYP audition. But no, there are opportunities outside of Korean to audition. Another option is web auditioning, but it is hard since most don't actually look at these (like SM, they will just send you an automated message saying they would love to see you at the global auditions). For more global audition information, check out the bottom about audition sites and dates.

3) Is it hard training to be an idol?
Why no or cours--Of course it's hard. If you don't want to work the hours and the pain, don't try. If you have ever heard or read about the schedules idols have, it is insane. They have singing and dancing training for the majority of the day and their free time is sleep time. As a trainee, your main focus will be to reach your debut. From what I've read, most people train an average of 3-5 years before debuting. They focus on dancing, singing, and learning other languages (like Chinese, Japanese, and Korean for foreigners).

4) Do you have to be Korean to audition?
No, but it is good to be Asian. I would say that they probably prefer Koreans because they would have to take less time and money to train them, but I think from a business standpoint, a foreign idol would spread KPop to other areas in the world. There are non-Korean idols like Amber (Chinese from CA) and Victoria (Chinese) in f(x), Nickhun (Thai and Chinese) in 2PM, and Alexander (1/4 Chinese, 1/4 Portuguese, 1/2 Korean) the ex-member of U-Kiss. I would say though that if you are not Asian, it would be very, very difficult for you to get it. I am half-Korean, half-Chinese from America. :) Wish me luck.

NH MEDIA:
The creator of Paran and U-KISS is looking to create a girl group. Auditions have started in Korea, but if you want to internationally audition, send a portfolio to this email address. Applicants start from age 16+.
woong306@nate.com

Audition Dates:
JYP is having their auditions in the US soon.
May 21 - Los Angeles
May 28 - Vancouver
June 11 - New York City
June 18 - Toronto
For the application: http://audition.jype.com/2011usaaudition/

SM had their Korea 2011 auditions but the Global Audition has yet to be announced for 2011. But I predict that it should be in the last quarter of the year. They normally have two waves. One in the first quarter, and one in the last.

I'm auditioning so wish me luck and I wish luck to all others that are auditioning!