On May 20, a large-scale training program featuring global K-pop hopefuls kicked off its ambitious run — and the race to catch agency attention is on.
The intensive incubating program for aspiring idols worldwide, the 'Global Casting Project (GCP) Vol.3', officially opened on the 20th.
This round adopts the training system of ModernK Academy — the pipeline behind stars like MAMAMOO, EXO's Chen, and Stray Kids' Changbin. For two weeks, participants will receive the same regimen as real K-pop trainees, covering vocals, dance, visual directing, recording, and more from top domestic instructors.
On day one in Namyangju, orientation and individual level tests took place. After greeting and introducing themselves in Korean, participants showcased songs like FIFTY FIFTY's 'Pookie' and Miyao's 'BURNING UP', pouring everything into their stages. They also highlighted their individuality with tracks by ENHYPEN, aespa, ITZY, and Stray Kids.
A judging panel led by K-LAB Company’s audition director and staff carried out fair evaluations throughout the tests.
After the level tests, trainees moved on to makeup and profile shoots. Under the direction of a professional photographer, they struck a range of eye-catching poses.
Training with specialized instructors begins on the 21st. Dance trainer Lee Sera brings experience coaching trainees at the Big 4 agencies. She participated as a trainer for A2K and the NiziU Project and has handled dance activities for TWICE, ITZY, Park Bom, and Wonder Girls. The vocal lineup is equally stacked, including a professor from the Korea National University of Arts, vocal trainers from major entertainment companies, and invited instructors from multiple global K-pop academies.
Recording Day falls on the 26th and will run by team in Suwon. A performance video shoot is slated for the 28th, followed by individual interviews, styling, and a showcase on the 30th. The highlight — a joint audition with major Korean agencies — is expected to become a key driver of future global recruitment.
One foreign applicant who came to Korea for the GCP said, "It feels unreal to be in the Korea I've dreamed of, learning from veteran teachers who have raised real artists," adding, "For two weeks, I'll pour in everything I've got and make sure I leave a strong impression on the agency reps."
K-LAB Company’s audition director and staff commented, "GCP Vol.3 isn't a simple trial camp; it's the most direct and professional fast track for global talent to enter the Korean entertainment market. We'll spare no effort so that the sweat they shed starting today leads to the birth of next-gen global K-pop stars."
Meanwhile, the roughly two-week GCP Vol.3 runs through the 31st and drew explosive interest even before kickoff. According to K-LAB, elite hopefuls dreaming of becoming K-pop stars have converged on Seoul from the United States, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, as well as the United Kingdom, Spain, and Poland.