'Superstar K' Preliminary Judge Jung Hun Jang Tells Aspiring Hallyu Vocalists How To Get On TV In Queens Appearance [EXCLUSIVE]

Late last month, K-pop record executive and preliminary round judge of the South Korean television singing competition "Superstar K," Jung Hun Yang, made an appearance at I Love Dance Studio in Queens, N.Y. as part of a free event called K-ommunity.

Jung, who was the assistant vice president of Starship Entertainment, (home of girl group Sistar and balladeer K.Will), before starting his own New York City-based label EISC Records in 2012.

The topics on the menu that crisp Saturday evening ranged from the Hallyu rumor mill to the direction of K-pop, but many of Jung's comments focused on how aspiring performers could ace an audition for a TV reality show. It starts, he advised, by being aware of what who you are auditioning for and what kind of performer the judges are looking for.

"Your story and charisma are more important for 'Superstar K' and singing is more important for 'K-pop Star,'" Jung said.

He listed appearance, singing ability and an interesting backstory as the three criteria that most programs are looking for in contestants. And while Jung conceded that the person does not have to already be a skilled dancer, he believes they do need raw vocal talent.

"Send a video tape of just vocals," Jung advised. "Do not send with background music."

He also encouraged would-be contestants to work hard but to also play to their strengths.

"Work within your vocal limits and songs fitting your voice," Jung said. "Listen and re-listen to your own recording, improving it before sending it."

The record executive also shared a fond remembrance of his days working with SISTAR.

"[SISTAR band member] Soyou really goes out of her way to be friendly with the staff and crew even if everyone else is napping," Jung joked.

For 21-year-old Queens College student Michelle Nawrocki, the evening offered a rare chance to hang out with K-pop fans in her hometown.

"It was nice to meet other people in New York that love K-pop and can talk about it," Nawrocki said.

Janalee Afonso, a 26-year-old public relations assistant, was surprised at how engaged she became.

"The K-ommunity event surprised me, but in a good way," she said.

"As the event started, I just saw a room of K-pop fans and thought it was just going to be average. But as it progressed, I found myself listening more and more. Before I knew it, I was joining the laughter that flooded the room."

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Superstar K
Superstar K6
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Jung Hun Jang
Starship Entertainment
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