The Secret Behind BTS and NewJeans: K-Pop Trainee System_ Inside the Training System That Shaped BTS and NewJeans

BTS, BLACKPINK, NewJeans... The K-pop stars captivating the world weren't made overnight. The 'trainee system' they went through is the unique DNA of Korea's entertainment industry.

The Trainee System: More Than Just "Idol Hopeful"
Many think of trainees as simply "aspiring idols," but the reality is far more intense. From the moment you sign a contract, you train daily in singing, dancing, languages, acting, and fitness. It's like school, but the exams are hardcore mode.
The phrase "Starting at Level 1, but the difficulty's already 'Dark Souls'" isn't an exaggeration. Korea's trainee system differs from the U.S. or Japan with its cutthroat competition structure. Thousands compete, and only a few survive monthly cuts.

The Audition World: Open vs. Private vs. Street Casting
Not all auditions are public.

Private auditions are invite-only, reserved for those recommended by art school teachers, industry insiders, or existing trainees. Fewer participants mean higher odds, as companies vet candidates upfront.

Street casting is another hallmark of Korean audition culture. Scouts hunt for potential in hotspots like Myeongdong, Gangnam, or Hongdae. Visuals like height, proportions, and first impressions matter most—skills are tested later. A single business card handed to a stranger could rewrite their destiny.
Public auditions = open to all. Private auditions = VIP server with an invite link.

Survival Shows: The New Debut Lane
Nowadays, survival shows are a top debut route.
Dozens of trainees compete on camera, with viewer votes and company ratings deciding fates. It's brutal but effective. Trainees prove their growth publicly, while fans feel like they're building idols with their clicks. Winners debut with instant fanbases. But losers face public rejection—a double-edged sword.
"Survival shows = PvP mode with millions watching. No respawn if you lose."
This is the world BTS, NewJeans, and your favorite K-pop stars went through. Behind the glamour on stage lies a trainee period marked by sweat and tears.