“…after continually disrespecting and ignoring the opinions of fans around the world.”
Koreaboo
The first step for many aspiring idols is to audition for the companies of their choice. Each label holds announced auditions every year, sometimes in multiple locations around the world, giving people a chance to impress.
Lately, SM EntertainmentThe announcement of the hearing led to the company getting massive criticism.
When entertainment companies open auditions, the announcement usually includes key details, including locations, times and dates. Some specifically announce whether they are also looking for male or female interns, sometimes openly stating that it is a boys’ or girls’ group project.
On December 12, SM Entertainment shared that it would hold global auditions in the new year. The official poster said that these auditions would take place in Korea, China, Japan, the United States and Canada.
The website also listed more details about the hearing, including how it would take place. However, the element that stood out the most to many was the age requirements.
These SM auditions are open to anyone born between 2005 and 2015, which means they will be at most 20 years old or at least 9 years old.
Although the maximum age is actually higher than some companies allow, the minimum age has not been liked by netizens for a variety of reasons.
For one thing, many didn’t think it would be right for such a young child to join SM Entertainment and take part in the harsh lifestyle of idol trainees. While a nine-year-old may not debut right away, it is still possible for them to debut at a younger age than many deem appropriate.
Yes, because we put 10-year-old children in a sector that is not safe even for adults. https://t.co/63P3cVsVCh
— ˚₊· ˚₊· ʚ₍･ ̩ ･ ⑅₎ɞ (@itsforeverkpop) December 12, 2024
so many people between 10-20… children and teenagers
why are kpop companies afraid of debuting grown adults and insist on taking advantage of kids who are too young to understand these contracts they’re signing and what they’re really getting themselves into? https://t.co/vwfDhbqtX3
— ⊹˚꒰ঌ Rayne ໒꒱₊˚ʚ 22˚⊹ 𝘧𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘤𝘤ᵕ̈ (@oyikuyar) December 12, 2024
2015?! are you out of your mind??? those are 9 year olds!! https://t.co/EWGOL0EYIl
— steph¹⁷ (@cIarityjisoo) December 12, 2024
Others raised the recent issues faced by SM Idols, criticizing the company for trying to add new trainees when it failed to protect its current performers. The situation with RIIZE’s Seunghan was also mentioned, with netizens urging SM to hold global auditions.
asking people to work for you when you overwork them and don’t protect them from stalkers https://t.co/xCEgTk0ZDf
— 𝗌𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗒𝗅 (@AgentSheryl) December 12, 2024
I’m holding a global audition after continually disrespecting and ignoring the opinions of global fans… https://t.co/B1OFkUiv52 pic.twitter.com/OS7ifTbjcU
— Khansa (@haniebunnies) December 12, 2024
SM… you are NOT a global company 😭, maybe try not to be weird towards your Japanese idol before taking these steps https://t.co/oMNFmg6QZc
— heladyan – DEPTH (@heladyan) December 12, 2024
