HYBE announced its inaugural global integrated audition on July 4, marking a significant shift in how the entertainment giant searches for new talent.
The "HYBE MUSIC GROUP AUDITION" allows aspiring artists to apply to all eight labels under the company's umbrella with a single application. The audition represents a departure from HYBE's traditional approach, where applicants previously had to audition separately for individual labels. Now, hopefuls can be evaluated by Big Hit Music, BELIFT LAB, Source Music, PLEDIS Entertainment, KOZ Entertainment, ADOR, and YX LABELS through one streamlined process, per an announcement published Friday.
The audition is open to individuals of all nationalities and genders born in or after 2007. Applicants can showcase their talents in singing, dancing, or any other area where they demonstrate unique skills and charm. Online applications will be accepted from July 14 to September 7.
Adding prominence to the initiative is the participation of Grammy-winning producer Ryan Tedder, who has previously collaborated with HYBE artists including KATSEYE on "Debut," &TEAM on "Dropkick," and TOMORROW X TOGETHER on "Back for More". Tedder's involvement comes as part of HYBE's broader collaboration with the OneRepublic frontman to develop a new boy group project.
To support the global audition, HYBE will host pop-up events in Japan from August 27 to 30 at MIL Gallery & MIL 2ND in Shibuya, Tokyo. These events will provide additional opportunities for talent discovery and engagement with potential participants, according to Star News Korea.
The integrated audition aligns with HYBE's "HYBE 2.0" strategy, which aims to strengthen its multi-label system and accelerate global expansion. The company established HYBE MUSIC GROUP APAC to oversee its music label businesses in Korea and Japan, with Young Jae Shin serving as president.
HYBE's announcement comes as the company continues its international expansion following successful projects like KATSEYE, its first global girl group created in partnership with Geffen Records. The group emerged from the Netflix series "Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE" and has achieved significant success with singles like "Touch" and "Debut."
