Can I Become a K-pop Trainee as a Short Guy, Im 52 Ft?

Every aspiring K-pop trainee dreams of joining the world of K-pop. But the age-old question often surfaces: is height a crucial factor? The answer is surprisingly nuanced. While traditionally, shorter individuals might face more challenges, it is certainly possible to pursue a career in K-pop. Here's a closer look at factors that influence your journey towards becoming a K-pop trainee.

Height: A Misconception?

Height has long been a topic of discussion, particularly with shorter individuals wondering if it hinders their chances. One such example is Woozi from SEVENTEEN, who is around 165cm tall. This highlights that being short does not necessarily preclude you from becoming a K-pop idol. Height restrictions are not a universal criterion for K-pop companies, especially when it comes to talent and potential.

Height Considerations for Young Trainees

For young trainees, the age factor plays a significant role in their physical development. At 10 years old, an average height for a child of that age is around 140cm. At 13 years old, an individual who is over 170cm is considered taller than average. This suggests that many trainees are still within the typical height range for their age group. While you might be concerned about your current height, remember that genetics and growth spurts can significantly influence your final height. If you are still growing, there's a good chance you will be taller in the future.

Other Criteria for K-pop Trainees

While height might not be a strict requirement, other factors play a crucial role in the selection process. Here are the key criteria that K-pop companies look for in potential trainees:

Skinny Build: For women, the ideal weight is 50kg or less, while men should aim for 75kg or less. These criteria apply not just during auditions but also to established idols. Notable exceptions include Psy, Kyla, and Shindong, who exceeded these limits but are rare cases. Dance and Rap/Singing Skills: Idols must show potential or actual talent in at least one of these areas. This is a critical criterion as performance is a key aspect of K-pop. Aesthetic Standards: Idols often adhere to a certain beauty standard, which includes being skinny and fitting the traditional Korean beauty criteria. However, this is more of a preference and may vary between different companies. Youth and Flexibility: Idols are usually under 18 and come from East or Southeast Asia. This criterion is more about ensuring the trainees can commit to the rigorous training schedule.

The Audition Process

The traditional path to becoming a K-pop trainee involves the following steps:

First Round: Prepare and submit your audition. This can be done either in-person or online, depending on the company's preference. If you're auditioning online, ensure your video showcases your talents. After this round, you may receive further instructions or be invited to a city where auditions take place in person. Further Auditions: If your initial submission is accepted, you might need to participate in additional rounds. These could involve showcasing specific skills or working with mentors. Final Congressional Audition: The last audition is always held in Korea. It is essential to prepare thoroughly for this crucial round, as the decision-makers will be present.

Other Cases

While the standard path covers most cases, there are unique situations where individuals from outside Korea have managed to join K-pop companies. These cases are exceptions but not impossible. For instance, if you have a unique talent or a strong connection to a K-pop company, you might have a chance to bypass the typical audition process.

Conclusion

While height is often a topic of discussion, the truth is that K-pop companies base their decisions on a broader set of criteria. As long as you have talent, potential, and the right physical build, your dream of becoming a K-pop trainee is far from impossible. Follow your dreams, enhance your skills, and keep exploring opportunities. Remember, every aspiring idol started somewhere, and with perseverance, you can make it to the top.