In the highly competitive world of K-Pop, securing a spot in a top agency like SM Entertainment or JYP Entertainment is a dream for countless aspiring idols. However, for some, the path takes an unexpected turn. RESCENE’s talented member, Woni, recently opened up about her rigorous audition journey, revealing a surprising reason why she couldn’t join two of K-Pop’s “Big 3” companies.
Woni’s Candid Confession: Age Barriers at Big 3 Agencies
Appearing on the 150th episode of the popular web variety show “Salon Drip” on July 28, Woni and her fellow RESCENE member Minami sat down with MC Jang Do Yeon. The conversation naturally turned to their pre-debut experiences, where Jang Do Yeon asked Woni about companies she almost joined. Woni candidly shared her past, stating, “I’ve been to YG Entertainment and a subsidiary of HYBE Labels.” The revelation that truly captured attention, however, was her explanation for missing out on SM and JYP. “I couldn’t go to JYP or SM because of my age,” Woni disclosed, adding an unexpected layer to the often-glamorized trainee life. It’s noteworthy that Woni ultimately debuted two years ago at the age of 19, suggesting she was considered too young or too old (depending on the company’s specific age window) at crucial points in her audition process for those particular agencies. Despite this, her talent clearly shone through, leading her to success elsewhere.
Beyond the Audition Room: A Highly Sought-After Trainee
Woni further elaborated on her impressive pre-debut track record, stating, “I passed many companies. I received many casting offers.” This highlights the incredible demand for her talent across the industry. Minami, drawing from her own experience as a trainee, fully understood the sentiment, explaining, “It can’t be helped. All trainees know how it is.” Woni reflected on the immense pressure and aspiration involved, remarking, “You can’t help but have big dreams,” a sentiment echoed by MC Jang Do Yeon who acknowledged the dedication, “You’re dedicating several years of your life.” Minami added another layer of insight, explaining the rationale behind trainees aiming for major labels: “Since there are famous seniors, they’re confident they’ll succeed if they go to those places.” Woni’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that while the path to debut is rarely straightforward, talent and perseverance ultimately pave the way for success, regardless of which agency initially opens its doors.
