The Types of K-pop Auditions Explained

There isn't just one type of K-pop audition. Some auditions happen online. Others are held in person. Some only have one round, while others have several stages.

Knowing which type of audition you're taking helps you prepare in the right way.

Many people imagine auditions as standing in front of a panel of judges, but that's only one possibility. Today, companies use several different audition formats, and each one has different expectations.

Let's look at the most common ones.

Online and Video Auditions

Today, the most common way to audition is by submitting a video online.

Usually, you'll need to fill out an application, upload photos, and send videos of yourself singing, dancing, rapping, or introducing yourself.

Since judges only see you through a screen, your video matters a lot. Good lighting, clear sound, proper camera angle, and a confident self-introduction can make a huge difference.

The biggest advantage is that you can record as many times as you want before sending your final version. The problem is that judges watch thousands of audition videos, so you need to catch their attention quickly.

In-Person Open Auditions

Many entertainment companies also hold open auditions around the world. These are live auditions where you perform directly in front of judges. You usually have only a short amount of time, sometimes just 30 to 60 seconds, to sing, dance, or introduce yourself.

The biggest advantage is that judges can see your real personality, confidence, and stage presence.

The biggest challenge is dealing with nerves. You usually only get one chance, and you may be asked to perform without music or respond to unexpected requests.

Multi-Round Auditions

Most successful applicants don't pass after just one audition. Instead, companies often invite promising applicants to several rounds. Each round becomes more difficult.

You might be asked to:

• perform different songs or dances,

• attend interviews,

• answer personal questions,

• show different skills,

• travel to another city or even Korea for the final rounds.

Think of the audition process as a journey, not a single event. As you move forward, judges learn more about your skills, personality, attitude, and potential.

Scouting

Not everyone applies for an audition. Sometimes, companies find talented people themselves. This is called scouting.

Scouts (also called casting managers) may approach people at dance studios, competitions, concerts, shopping malls, or even through social media.

Being scouted is exciting, but you should always be careful. Unfortunately, scammers often pretend to be talent scouts. A real company will never pressure you or ask you to pay money. Always check that the scout really works for the company before sharing personal information or meeting them.

I'll talk much more about staying safe later in this book.

Survival Show Auditions

Another way to become a trainee is through survival shows. These TV or online competitions bring together many contestants who compete for a place in a new idol group.

Examples include shows like R U Next, I-LAND, Girls Planet 999, and many others.

These auditions are usually much more competitive because they happen in front of cameras and millions of viewers. Also, it can be very difficult and scary to participate in such shows because of a lot of pressure from the audience watching you 24/7.

Read the Instructions Carefully

Before every audition, read all the requirements.

Ask yourself:

• Is it online or in person?

• Do I need to sing, dance, or both?

• How long should my performance be?

• Do I need photos?

• Do I need an introduction video?

• What file format should I upload?

Following the instructions is part of the audition. Many applicants are rejected simply because they ignore the rules or submit the wrong materials.

Every Round Has a Different Goal

Each stage of the audition looks for different things. The first round is simple. Judges ask themselves:

"Should we keep watching this person?"

They're looking for basic skills, confidence, and something that grabs their attention. Later rounds go much deeper.

Judges want to know:

• Are your skills consistent?

• Can you improve?

• What's your personality like?

• Are you easy to work with?

• Could you become a successful idol?

Understanding this helps you prepare for each round instead of treating every audition the same.

Expect the Unexpected

One of the best things you can do is prepare for surprises.

Judges may ask you to:

• sing another song,

• dance without music,

• freestyle,

• answer unexpected questions,

• perform a different skill than you planned.

People who prepare only one performance often panic when something changes. People who expect surprises stay calm. That's exactly what judges want to see.

It's a good idea to always have:

• at least backup songs of different genres, fast-paced and slow, Korean songs and English songs.

• at least 2 short dances prepared.

• a few facts about yourself ready to share.

Let’s sum up. A video audition needs great filming and presentation. An in-person audition needs confidence and strong stage presence. A multi-round audition requires backup performances, interview preparation, and the ability to adapt.

The basics stay the same, but knowing your audition format will help you prepare much more effectively.