Can You Audition with a Friend for K-Pop and Form a Duo?

Yes, you can absolutely audition with a friend for K-Pop! The concept of forming a K-Pop duo has captured the hearts and imaginations of many aspiring performers. However, it's essential to understand the nuances of K-Pop's audition process and group formation. Here, we delve into the possibilities and realities of auditioning together and showcasing your talents as a duo.

Why Audition with a Friend?

Some entertainment agencies do allow group auditions, particularly if you and your friend can demonstrate a strong dynamic and showcase your individual talents together. This approach can be advantageous as it shows your ability to work cohesively and potentially stand out from other solo candidates.

Agency Criteria and Audition Processes

However, it's crucial to recognize that most K-Pop groups are formed by the agencies based on their specific criteria. Therefore, even if you and your friend audition together, there's no guarantee that you will debut as a duo. The agencies prioritize the overall success and appeal of the group, which can sometimes mean that one member may get cut in favor of a different candidate who better fits the group dynamics.

The Existence of 2-Member K-Pop Groups

Despite the rarity, 2-member K-Pop groups do exist! While the majority of K-Pop groups typically range from 4 to 12 members, there are successful duos within the industry, such as TVXQ, Gugudan, and AKMU. These groups have demonstrated that smaller lineups can still achieve great popularity and success.

Common Challenges and Realities

It's important to be aware that the auditioning process for a 2-member K-Pop group is not a straightforward path. Here are some key points to consider:

Individual Audition Evaluations

Some companies allow you to audition as a duo but will evaluate you individually. This means that even if you perform together, there’s a chance that one of you may be eliminated while the other is selected. If both of you get accepted, you will be treated as individual trainees rather than a duo. The company retains the right to cut either member at any time, as they focus on creating the best possible group lineup.

Project Groups and Temporary Combinations

2-membered groups are most common as temporary project units or sub-units of larger groups. Examples include:

JBJ95, a duo formed by two former members of JBJ MXM, which later became AB6IX JJProject, which later became Got7 HD, a duo comprised of former members of X1 who are redebuting in a larger group CocoSori, a duo that still exists within the Cube Entertainment family Troublemaker, a project group of Cube artists HyunA and Hyunseung HyungseobXEuiwoong, a duo of YueHua trainees who participated in Produce101

Finding the Right Agency

To increase your chances of being accepted and forming a duo, it's advisable to stay updated on auditons for any K-Pop company that specifically open auditions for 2-member groups. These auditions can be highly competitive, and rejection is always a possibility. However, if you and your friend are talented and well-matched, there is a chance for success.

Conclusion

The world of K-Pop is ever-evolving, and opportunities for duo performances continue to exist. While there is no guarantee of success, the journey of auditioning and training together can be an incredibly rewarding one. It's important to remain dedicated, persistent, and ready to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of K-Pop. Auditing together can be a great start, but success will also depend on your skills, the agency's criteria, and a bit of luck.