6 Idols Who Were Once Inexperienced Trainees But Now Known as K-pop's 'Aces'
While these idols had little to no experience/skills before they became idol trainees, they proved that "hard work truly pays off" as they managed to debut and later on have risen as "K-pop aces"! Often, you'll hear inspiring stories from idols about how they reached their dream of becoming singers. However, some idols revealed they started enrolling at academies early to gain and sharpen their skills and abilities before joining auditions.
But in some cases, some artists didn't dream of becoming idols, but fate works in mysterious ways, and they suddenly became trainees.
Although they don't have the skills expected at that time, they were able to unleash and hone their hidden talents and potential, thanks to their passion and for not giving up.
Here Are 7 Idols Who Were Inexperienced Trainees but Are Now K-pop's 'Aces':
1. NCT 127 Taeyong
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Prior to becoming a trainee, Taeyong actually had no idea about K-pop.
He even mistook the "BIG3" companies for SBS, KBS, and MBC. In addition, he's also one of the idols scouted in an odd way– luring him on the street with a toast!
Later, he entered SM Entertainment as a blank slate: no idea how to sing, rap, or dance! At that time, his dance teacher even claimed he might not make it.
But he truly turned the tablea as after passionately going to practice and working hard, Taeyong is now one of the greatest dancers and rappers from third-gen K-pop. He's also now a leader of the million-seller group NCT!
2. Stray Kids Hyunjin
Just like Taeyong, Hyunjin was also street cast. Similarly, he didn't have any experience in dancing, rapping, and singing before joining JYP Entertainment. As a result, he struggled a lot, especially when dancing, and he was frustrated for not being able to follow the same level as other trainees.
But instead of giving up, Hyunjin practiced the art of effort and from being a "no good" dancer, he's now one of the best dancers in the K-pop scene. With his outstanding "all-rounder" skills, he also joined idols who were given the nickname, "4th-gen leaders."
3. ATEEZ San
ATEEZ San
Aside from joining his church choir, San didn't know how being an idol worked before joining KQ Entertainment. In fact, the male star was one of the trainees who were falling behind in terms of dance before.
But it seems like San is a hidden genius! After training for more than two years, he consistently climbed as one of the most prominent fourth-gen K-pop artists and was constantly mistaken as a member of ATEEZ's dance line for his incredible dance skills.
On top of that, San is also skilled in regards to singing and rapping, a real "all-rounder" indeed!
4. ASTRO Cha Eun Woo
During his pre-debut days, Eun Woo was praised in school for his outstanding performance academically, leadership, and excellence in sports. But his confidence hit rock bottom when he became a trainee after being scouted at their school bathroom.
Under Fantagio, he started to learn the basics, only to be repeatedly told that he wasn't good enough.
After four years of training, Eun Woo finally debuted as ASTRO. From being called a "fish out of the water," the male idol is now not only known as a "Face Genius" but he also established his name as an impressive singer, dancer and top actor.
5. NCT Dream Jaemin
Before Jaemin debuted in NCT Dream, he was only a trainee scouted for "his looks."
But who would have thought that the handsome student volunteering to pick up trash would rise as K-pop's ace?
Now, Jaemin is a center, visual, lead dancer and rapper from a million-seller group!
6. ITZY Ryujin
Ryujin, revealed to be a GOT7 fan, was only watching a concert of the group when JYP Entertainment scouted her.
Ultimately, she grabbed the opportunity of possibly becoming a junior artist in her favorite group, but the process wasn't always easy.
Before she debuted as ITZY, Ryujin had to experience heartbreak first after being unable to debut through MIXNINE.
But when her time to shine finally came, she indeed made sure to leave a massive impact on the K-pop scene as, aside from being a trendsetter, she rose as one of the best rappers and dancers among idols. The group she's in, ITZY, also earned the moniker "K-pop 4th-Gen Queen."
READ MORE: ITZY Earns 'K-pop's 4th-Generation Queens' Title from K-Media
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Written by Eunice Dawson
