A massive K-pop training and casting program aimed at discovering and cultivating global talent has finally been unveiled.
The intensive incubating camp for K-pop hopefuls worldwide, 'Global Casting Project' (GCP) Vol.3, officially kicked off on May 20.
On day one at a site in Namyangju, participants attended orientation and individual level tests. Fresh off long-haul flights to Seoul, they shook off their fatigue and lit up as they were briefed on the grueling training curriculum ahead.
While one-by-one level tests were underway, trainees from across the globe prepped for their turn in the waiting room, showing unfiltered passion. Dressed comfortably, they practiced a range of K-pop songs and choreography—including the level-test track, Fifty Fifty’s 'Pookie'—to steady their nerves. Each performance was met with cheers and applause as they hyped one another up.
From May 21, full-fledged training with professional coaches begins. Dance trainer Lee Sera, who has trained trainees from the Big 4 agencies, will lead dance classes. She previously worked as a trainer on 'A2K' and the 'Nizi Project' and has been involved in dance activities for TWICE, ITZY, Park Bom, and Wonder Girls.
The vocal lineup is equally stacked, bringing together a Korea National University of Arts vocal professor, top agency vocal trainers, and frequently invited instructors from leading global K-pop academies.
Running for about two weeks until May 31, GCP Vol.3 drew explosive interest from applicants even before launch. According to K-LAB, elite hopefuls dreaming of becoming K-pop stars have flown in for on-site training in Seoul from the United States, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, as well as the United Kingdom, Spain, Poland, and more.