As K-pop’s global popularity continues to rise, major entertainment agencies are actively searching for the next generation of world-class stars.
Following the global success of BTS, BLACKPINK, and Stray Kids, the question remains: will a new international K-pop icon emerge this year?
YG Entertainment Launches “Special Audition”
YG Entertainment is on the hunt for artists who will follow in the footsteps of BIGBANG and BLACKPINK.
Yang Hyun Suk, YG’s executive producer, announced a “special audition” in which he will personally review all applicants—from document screening to final selection.
“You have to create your own thing. That’s how you become a star. Can’t you become that kind of person?”
— Yang Hyun Suk, Executive Producer, YG Entertainment
With a track record of discovering global superstars like G-Dragon and Jennie, Yang aims to use his experience and insight to identify the next artist capable of captivating audiences worldwide.
SM Entertainment Confirms New Boy Group for 2026
SM Entertainment has officially confirmed the debut of a new boy group in 2026.
“One boy group is scheduled to debut in 2026. SMTR25 members will also be considered…”
— Tak Young Jun, Co-CEO, SM Entertainment
Ahead of finalizing the debut lineup, SM introduced its trainee team “SMTR25” to the public through a variety reality show. The program features 15 multinational male trainees, including those previously revealed through SM’s own content and concerts, as well as unreleased trainees.
Set in a fictional school environment, the show allows trainees to experience cultural themes from the 1990s to the 2010s. While the program is not directly tied to the final debut lineup, it is expected to serve as an indicator of each trainee’s popularity and public appeal.
HYBE to Launch Sister Group to KATSEYE
HYBE is also preparing to debut a sister group that will follow the global girl group KATSEYE, whose members were finalists for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards.
Three members from the audition program “Dream Academy” have already been confirmed for the new group. The search for the final fourth member will begin through a second Korea-U.S. joint audition project, which will officially launch on the 24th.
The competition is expected to be intense. Approximately 14,000 applicants have gathered for a single remaining spot, signaling fierce competition among aspiring next-generation K-pop stars.
As YG, SM, and HYBE accelerate their plans, the industry enters another crucial turning point. With the global market as the main stage, the race to discover the next K-pop phenomenon has officially begun.
Will 2026 introduce the world to the next BTS or BLACKPINK? The spotlight is now on the trainees preparing to take center stage.
Sources: naver