September 3, 2012

A Useful Guide to the SM Entertainment Auditions

Here's a quick guide that I've compiled based on my own experience and other sources.  This is a guide for the SM Entertainment online audition, e-mail audition, and post audition.

For more answers:



Treat this as a job application (after all, if you do indeed become an idol, this will be your job and career).  Make sure your grammar and spelling is to the best of your ability.  Also, do away with comments like "plz support!" and "this is my dream!"
  • Also, please, please, please double, triple, and even quadruple check your application before you hit "Send".  It is very unprofessional (and it just looks bad) to send a second email saying "I'm sorry, but I put in my place of residence wrong." 
  • If you are anything less than totally proud of the photos and video clips, don't send it in.  Re-record it or re-take the photos.
If you have any questions, you can check out Basic Audition Q & A or comment below!

Online Audition (everysing.com)
(Note:  I have updated it to match everysing's new layout.)
Open:  Year round

Warning:  Know that if you send in anything to SM, it becomes their property.  They can and (usually) will put it up on their YouTube (or on everysing) if you do not pass the audition.  There is no way to remove the videos.  You can try to email SM and ask them to remove the video, but SM rarely if ever complies.  Please TRIPLE check your video before submitting it.  If you think you'll want to take it down DON'T SEND IT.
  1. Open global.everysing.com.  Make sure you aren't on everysing.com or everything will be in Korean.  Make sure you are signed in.
  2. Click on "Audition" at the top of the page - there will be others that say Audition farther down the page, but don't click on those!
  3. Click on "SM everysing Audition" at the top left.  Scroll through the guide to the bottom.  Click the button on the left that says "Audition Apply" 
  4. Attach your video file on the appropriate section.  It must be in the .avi or .wmv format and less than 50 MB.  If the program you used does not have .avi or .wmv as a conversion choice, convert it anyway and then convert it again to .avi or .wmv using a conversion program. 
  5. Enter the song title and artist.  (If you can spell it in Korean, I suggest adding that as well)
  6. Enter the subject.  Honestly, I don't know what they are looking for.  On my audition, I just put the title again.
  7. For the content, put anything else that you want other views or the judges to see about the song.
  8. Make sure you check the box at the bottom that gives them permission to upload the video to YouTube.
  9. Click the red "Update" box at the very bottom.
Now you can also audition via SMTOWN's official homepage.

Warning:  Know that if you send in anything to SM, it becomes their property.  They can and (usually) will put it up on their YouTube (or on everysing) if you do not pass the audition.  There is no way to remove the videos.  You can try to email SM and ask them to remove the video, but SM rarely if ever complies.  Please TRIPLE check your video before submitting it.  If you think you'll want to take it down DON'T SEND IT.
  1. Sign in to smtown.com.  The login e-mail and password is the same for everysing.com.
  2. Click on "Audition" at the top of the main page.
    1. Go to the right side of the audition page (www.smtown.com/link/audition) and click on "Apply Now"
    2. Make sure you set your language to English.
  3. Click on "By Online."
  4. Fill out the required fields as accurately and honestly as possible.
    1. Career is the same as Experience.
    2. You may only choose ONE field to audition in, so choose carefully.
    3. UCC (video) URL is where you would paste a link (usually YouTube) to your audition clip.
    4. Only check and list languages that you are fluent in.
    5. Your photo must be JPG, GIF, or PNG.  Make sure you look natural in the photo!
      1. You should keep your hair off your forehead and out of your face
      2. No crazy hair-dos.
      3. No make-up.  Also, if you have facial piercings, I would suggest taking them out for the photo (they can alter your appearance).
      4. Good lighting
      5. Make the photo good quality (no old school cellphone camera photos, no blurry photos, etc.) but don't give them professional grade photos (yearbook photos, graduation photos, etc.)
      6. No editing
      7. No fingers or hands in the way of your face.  So no peace signs.
      8. Don't change your facial features - smile, but don't be winking or making a weird face.
      9. Make sure your hair and/or face isn't out of the frame.
    6. While not required, the self-introduction is a way to stand out.  Let your personality show! (And use good grammar!)

If you have any questions, you can check out Basic Audition Q & A or comment below!


E-mail Audition
Open:  Year round
  1. E-mail address:  usaaudition@smtown.com 
    1. For non-USA and non-Korean residents:  If you are e-mailing from a country other than the USA or Korea, please use smaudition@smtown.com
  2. Subject:   Name/Age/Gender/Category you are auditioning for   (EX:  Angela/16/Female/Singer)
  3. Attach a video containing a sample of you dancing.  Like the everysing.com audition, make sure the file is in .wmv, .mp3, .wav or .avi form.  Even if you aren't auditioning as a dancer, still include a dance clip!  Their website states that mp4 and cda formats cannot be evaluated.
  4. Attach an mp3 (or video) of you singing.  Don't edit it. 
  5. Attach 2 photos.  They ask for a front shot of your face and a profile shot.  Make sure the photos are in JPG or GIF format.  They also ask that you DO NOT photoshop, edit, touch up, or in anyway shape or form mess with the photos!   They are also asking for quality shots as in no camera photos or scanned photos!  (Scanned photos makes it near impossible for them to know if editing was done so they don't allow scanned photos).  Their website also explicitly states that they will not evaluate photos in which your hands and clothes obscure your face.
  6. The body:  Wow.   It took forever for me to find this...but it's buried in a Q&A section at membership.smtown.com.  There no longer is an application form:

    1. Name/Sex
    2. Area of Application
    3. Date of Birth
    4. School
    5. Place of Residence
    6. Contact Information (1) Cellular Phone (2) E-mail
    7. Experience [1]

  7. Fill these out.  DO NOT include any extra information.  I know some of you will be worried about the "Experience" section, but don't sweat it, especially if you're young.  I suggest putting down anything school talent show and larger down.  (The backyard show you put on with the neighbor kids doesn't count...)
    1. If you haven't taken any lesson, don't mention it!  The judges assume you have had no lessons or training unless you mention a school or time when you did receive it.
    2. Area of Application - It means, "What Are You Auditioning For?".  In other words, singer, dancer, VJ, actor, model, etc.
  8. Hit send.
If your files won't all fit, DO NOT send multiple e-mails.  Trim the length of your singing and/or dancing clip.  In all honestly they probably won't watch more than 30 seconds anyway.  Also, double check that you can play the files without any problems.  If there are any glitches or errors, they will disregard your e-mail.
Another suggestion is to send the e-mail on weekdays.  The weekends are probably a very busy time.
If you do not receive a reply with 2-4 weeks, assume that you did not qualify.  SM's official website and their official Facebook page state that "E-mail audition results will be notified individually to only those who were qualified."


If you have any questions, you can check out Basic Audition Q & A or comment below!

Post Audition (Snail Mail)
Open:  Year Round
This will cost you money in the form of extra postage.  You will be paying for a heavier package and whatever it costs to send mail overseas.
Make sure your CD/DVD/USB/DV/memory card is SECURELY wrapped.  Any damage to make it unreadable will cause your audition to be ignored.
  1. Address your envelope:  서울시 강남구 강남우체국 사서함 1952호 SM엔터테인먼트 오디션 담당자 앞
    1. Here's the breakdown in English:
      1. S.M. Entertainment Korea, <Artist Planning and Development Team>
      2. Gangnam, P.O. Box 1952
      3. Seoul, South Korea
    2. You can also send to the office in the States:
      1. Audition S.M. Entertainment Audition USA 4322 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90010
    3. Unless you can write fluently in Korean, I suggest sending it to the USA office.  I have heard that the Korean office won't accept out of country mail, so send it to the USA office unless you happen to be in Korea and sending it from Korea.
  2. Put the CD/DVD/USB/DV/memory card in the envelope.  Once again, the USB should have the files in the mp3, .avi, .wmv, or .wma format.  Make sure the item is securely wrapped in something like bubble wrap.
  3. Just use the format used above for the E-mail Audition.
  4. Include the front face shot and the profile shot.  No editing, photoshopping, touching up, or anything on the photos.  Print them out or include them on the media format you are sending.
  5. Figure out the correct postage.
  6. Send!

If you have any questions, you can check out Basic Audition Q & A or comment below!


Live Audition (In Person - Seoul)
Important Update:  The Live Audition format has changed.  USA Auditions are now MONTHLY.
3/16, 4/20, 5/18, 6/15, 7/20, 8/17, 9/21, 10/19, 11/16, and 12/21 are the Audition dates for 2013.

LA Auditions
Address:  4322 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 300 Los Angeles CA 90010
Email:  usaaudition@smtown.com
Time:  2pm - 5pm Pacific Time, on the 3rd Saturday of every month.

Seoul Auditions
Address:  Sinsa-dong, 659-9 Hyesung Building, Seoul
Email:  master@everysing.com
Time:  Every Saturday starting at 2pm KTS

Seoul Weekly Auditions [2]
Open:  Year Round
Please note that you should arrive early.  The line starts to grow around 1!  Also, please bring water and a writing utensil!  You will be sitting through the auditions of the numbers ahead of you, so be prepared to spend the entire afternoon there.  If you're quick, you can excuse yourself to the bathroom while listening to the other auditions, but please be quiet and respectful!  They have two staff members patrolling the auditorium that will shush you and make sure your phones are off and away.
NOTE:  As cameras aren't allowed, this is all done from memory.  I apologize for any inaccuracies!


  1. Arrive at Yeoksam (역삼역) Station, Line Number 2.  It is between Gangnam (강남) and Seolleung (선릉) Stations.
    1. Exit through Exit 3 and walk straight ahead.
    2. As you walk straight ahead, you will cross one street.
  2. The auditions are held at the POSCO P&N Tower.
    1. The POSCO Tower will be the giant glass building to your right as soon as you cross the street.  For reference, there is a Starbucks on the first level.
  3. Take the elevators up to the third floor.
    1. When you reach the third floor, you will have reached the audition area, so please be respectful and quiet!
      1. If you have friends that are not auditioning, have them wait on the first floor.
  4. A staff member will greet you and give you a half sheet of paper which is your application
      1. Warning:  the staff member we were greeted by spoke very limited English.
    1. The first line is where you fill out the date (년-year, 월-month, 일-day) and your sex.
    2. The next few boxes you should fill out to the best of your ability.  They ask for name (and Korean characters if you have a legitimate Korean name - not the one you or your friends decided on, but one your parents gave you), birthdayaddressphone numberheight and weight (be honest, write in cm and kg), school and yeararea of application (what you are auditioning for) and your Korean social security number.
      1. If you are a foreigner, leave this one blank.  However, if you have an Alien Registration Number, you can fill it out in this box.
      2. There will be a box with the word 심사 by it:  Leave it blank as it is for the judge.
      3. You can only audition in ONE category.  You must pick dancer, singer, OR actor.
  5. After you're done filling out your application, hand it to the staff member.
    1. They will give you a sticker with a number on it.
    2. Place the number on your chest and make sure it isn't obscured by hair or clothes.
  6. You will be ushered in groups, and showed where to sit in the auditorium.
  7. Depending on your number, you will wait anywhere between 30 minutes to two hours.
    1. During this time, observe the other auditions.
      1. For example, the September Auditions clip (http://smtown.com/Audition) have one of the dancers we observed.  It's the second person, first dancer, wearing a red jacket around his waist.
    2. If you hear someone else do your audition song, have another one as backup!  We had one girl do Wendy's "슬픔 속에 그댈 지워야만 해" and then two after her, in her same group, another girl did the same song.
      1. Avoid common songs unless you can really change it up.  (EX:  Ailee's covers of Beyonce's "Halo" and Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You")
      2. Songs to avoid:  ANYTHING SM (seriously...so many people did SES's "Just A Feeling", Wendy's "슬픔 속에 그댈 지워야만 해" and a ton of Taeyeon's OST songs).
  8. They usher you on stage 10 at a time.
    1. While the group ahead of you auditions, a staff member will gather up the next ten.
      1. The staff member will order you by number, so make sure you're ordered 1-10.
    2. Take your belongings with you - you will drop them off by the door next to the stage.
    3. If you have long hair or bangs, make sure it doesn't obscure your eyes.
  9. Once on stage, the judge will indicate the first person to begin.
    1. The judge will cut you off when she sees fit or let you sing the rest of your stanza.  The judge will also be the one requesting you to sing or dance more.
    2. If you're a dancer, you will be skipped and told to remain on the stage after the singers depart.
    3. NOTE:  Make sure you stare straight at the camera!  The camerawoman and the staff will try and redirect your attention!
  10. After the singers are done, anyone they want to sing again, does so.
    1. After the singers leave the stage, they can gather their belongings and leave.
  11. The dancers all audition at once.  They put on a piece of music and let them dance.
    1. After the music stops, the dancers exit.
    2. Any dancers they want to dance again are asked to dance again.
  12. You're done!
For more answers:
Credits:
[1] https://membership.smtown.com/Faq?page=1&category=&keyword=

Update:  Oct. 20th, 2014
[2] Update reflects the change in the format and location of SM's Weekly Audition.

368 comments:

  1. So....what is the best way to contact them then if you want to audition but are unable to go to the live auditions?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I recommend email. You don't have to worry about your USB, CD, or DVD getting damaged along the way.

      Delete
    2. It's also free of charge! Otherwise you're paying for postage.

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    3. Thanks so much! I will try very hard!

      Delete
  2. so they don't care about the body type at first but if you sign a contact with them they'll make you go on a diet is that it

    ReplyDelete
  3. More or less. The K-Pop business is all about marketability. At the audition they're looking for talent. They know that it's easier to change one's appearance (weight, hair, facial features) than teach someone to have stage presence, charisma, and talent. K-Pop Star's Park JiMin is a good example. She was chosen for her talent, not her looks, but later slimmed down before her debut.
    Once again, they can't /force/ you to diet. First they'll see how much you'll loose during dance practice alone. All that physical activity can cause people to slim down! They will suggest a diet or foods to avoid/add to your diet.

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  4. should the video for the email audition be sung accapella?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would recommend a cappella, but SM's website doesn't say no to having an accompaniment for email auditions! If you choose to use an instrumental, make sure it is pure (no background vocals!!!!) and does not in any way overshadow you voice.

      Delete
  5. does anyone here already got reply from sm email audition 2012/2013 (recently)?

    ReplyDelete
  6. Replies
    1. Global or Youth Star: No.
      Weekly Audition: Yes.
      Online/email: No, but it's recommended.

      On all of these, still be prepared! Since idoldom is about singing /and/ dancing, they will ask you to dance at some point in the entire audition process.

      Delete
  7. Do you have to pay if your an trainee?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No. SM pays for everything related to your debut 100% if you're an official trainee.

      Delete
  8. What do you mean by "Area of Application"?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Area of Application just means what you are auditioning for (modeling, acting, singing, dancing, etc.)

      Delete
    2. Okay,thank you:)

      Delete
  9. Would accompanying myself on guitar be a bad idea for the singing part of an email audition?

    Also, can the dance just be a dance cover if I'm bad at free styling?

    Finally, does my not being even a little bit Asian hurt my chances?

    Oh, and, how much might they care that I can speak Japanese?
    Should I bother mentioning it?

    Thankss >3<

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That depends on how good you are with the guitar. If you are a beginner or can't play without error, I don't recommend it. If you are pretty good and can play without error, than go for it!

      For the online audition, it's kind of up to you (but avoid using SM's dances). However for /any/ live audition (Weekly, Global, Youth Star) you shouldn't do a cover even if you have to worm wiggle on the dance floor [it's actually a rhythm test to see if you can even keep a beat when moving].

      Sadly, yes, at least for now. So far the Western market hasn't been promising enough to spend $1 million+ on debuting a group aimed at the West [they're sticking to Asian members, which sell better in Asia because their faces would better relate to Asians and they're trying to get SNSD into the West first.]
      But don't despair. Go ahead and audition because we don't know what the company has in store. :)

      That actually could help you if you are conversationally fluent or better. They're slowly seeing declines in sales in Japan of Japanese records released by Korean singers who don't really speak Japanese. SM has been targeting Japan with their auditions so they definitely see value in Japanese-speakers. It does give you an edge, but don't mention it unless they ask for languages or special talents!

      Delete
  10. During global audition, can i sing and dance at the same time if i am auditiong for singing? Because i dont want to just stand on the stage like a tree and sing my songs. I want to dance too when singing my songs.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They don't want you to sing AND dance at Global Auditions.

      Since you don't want to stand like a tree, use your movements to convey the meaning of the song you are singing. Make every movement count and don't waste them by fidgeting! If you want examples, check out the contestants of K-Pop Star and live performances by soul and gospel singers. They are very good at putting their movements to good use!
      Good luck~!!!

      Delete
    2. That means during global audition, i can and do some simple movements at the same time right?

      Delete
  11. I'm a bit confused, when you say experience.. What exactly do you mean?Like for example are you talking about how much talent we may have? I'm sorry if this question bothers you..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What they want under "Experience" is any experience you have in the category you are auditioning for. If you audition for acting, have you got a award for it (try to make sure the experience is something with actual prizes, unless the school choir and a church musical is all you've ever done)? If you audition for singing, have you won any contests or prizes for it?

      Delete
    2. No, to be honest i haven't ever sung in public, but I'm trying to break out of being shy when it comes to it, so i can get honest feedback to become a better singer before the global auditions. Thank you for the help :D

      Delete
  12. sorry for disturbing, I wanna ask what is profile shot? the photoshoot from head to toe? or what?
    and anyway, can I use SM's song for dance in my email audition?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Profile shot is basically a side view. Don't use their own songs use anything but their songs, if you look through artist auditions on youtube, you can see the type of songs they use. e.g. they used Boom Boom Pow for one of the artists i forgot who

      Delete
    2. A profile shot is a photo of the side of your face.

      It's okay to use SM's songs for you dance, but I would encourage you not to cover the dance. Say for example, you have "Lucifer" playing in the background and you freestyle. That would be okay.

      Delete
  13. Thx a lot for the information. I want to apply as dancer, so i've good some Questions i need help for:
    1. Do i have to send a singing file? (i'm okay or worse as singer. I never got lessons)
    2. I'm good at moving, but i never got dancing lessons (besides 1 and a half year b-dance which i still continue), so i wanna do a cover of B.a.p. Power. Will they accept it? (I don't know how to create an own choreography...)
    To summarise. I think i look okay - good, i sing okay and i'm good at dancing (My b-dance teacher asked if i was interested in working as a teacher, so i seem to be not too bad...). All of this can surely be improved by lessons, so what do you think?
    Again thanks for the information ;-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 1.) If you're auditioning specifically for a dancer, no, you do not.
      2.) I always caution against covering dances of K-Pop songs because it just makes you look like a fan, not a serious auditioner. They will accept it, though. You can remedy that by just stringing different parts of the dance together along with other dance moves from other songs if you aren't good at coming up with your own moves.

      Don't worry too much. The judges who review your audition are going to assume you've never had lessons in anything unless you mention you had lessons in something on your application.
      Just be confident in what you and let your talent speak for itself. :)

      Delete
  14. Thank you very much for your reply! It gives me a lot of confidence and hope and i will work hard ;-)

    ReplyDelete
  15. I want to ask whether I can have entries in both email and online audition?
    IS there any limit of entries per individual?
    Thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, but I suggest sticking to one. Also, don't submit it to both sites at the same time unless you find there is a glitch with one site.

      There is no limit, but limit yourself to one entry per time so you're not considered spam. Also, make sure that there is improvement between each and every entry you submit. You could feasibly submit any entry every week if you improved each time by leaps and bounds.

      Delete
  16. Hey... Uhmm... I'm planning to be a rapper and dancer so is it okay if I rap in English? Love the way you lie to be specific. And I honestly enjoy dancing to EXO K's MAMA so is it okay if I can cover dance their song?

    Also I live in the philippines.. If someday I get accepted, do they pay for expenses like a ticket to Korea and school expenses because I'm currently in High School and i'm 14 can they accept me? Anyway thanks for the info. ^^

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, it is alright to rap in English!

      Unless you are a professional-grade dancer or have an extreme natural talent, I would not recommend covering an SM dance for their auditions. Their judges are going to know the dance and will be able to see every little mistake (or they might compare you to the original and think "Lay did this part better...", rather than "oh this person can dance."
      I always suggest freestyle, but if you absolutely can't, try covering a dance that isn't from SM.

      After they accept your email/post/online audition, they will ask you to live audition at either a Global Audition or Weekly Audition in Seoul. This is NOT paid for by the company. The company might ask you to two or three auditions before signing you and won't start paying until you are signed.

      Education is important to Koreans and SM. You will attend school, most likely Kent International. The company will cover any tuition related expenses.
      Good luck!

      Delete
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  18. eheheh.. i'm going to the extreme and covering shinee's lucifer dance, making my chances of getting chosen much harder, but i really like dancing to it (and i don't count kyary pamyu pamyu dances as difficult nor professional), so, hopefully they'll understand i wasn't trying to be exactly the same as shinee (as i cant really do 5 parts at once nor i think sticking to a single part is good) wish me luck~~

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  20. Sorry for the trouble but I have a few questions,
    1) I applied by online, but i didn't send any video on me singing, could i possibly apply again, but by email with a different email?
    2)how long does it usually take for them to send a confirmation?
    3)for an email application do you need to write a self introduction?
    thank you for your time!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 1.) Yes. If you leave something as important as that out, they will probably ignore it. I would resubmit your email, but with the attitude that this is your first time auditioning.

      2.) Confirmation? For the Global Audition confirmation it usually takes 24 hours - 2 weeks. For any sort of response, email auditions take about 2-5 weeks (longer during Global Auditions where Globals emails take priority).

      3.) No. Since they do not ask for it, they do not want one. The only intro you might consider doing would be a short "Hi my name is...and I'm singing..." at the beginning of your video clip.

      Delete
  21. Im applying for global auditions, when i apply is a video or music file necessary? sorry for all the questions! and thankyou

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It doesn't require it, but I suggest adding a UCC URL just to be safe and to make sure to get your foot in the door. No problem!!!

      Delete
  22. I applied twice to the global auditions. once through online and once through email. Do you think they would disregard me because I did that? Thankyou so much for your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It depends how carefully they check their materials. The more auditions you send, the more of a chance you have of getting marked as spam.
      If you want to correct a mistake, attach the correction to the original email.
      You should only apply multiple times if you haven't received a confirmation after 1 and a half to 2 months.

      Delete
  23. I applied for global auditions twice consecutively and I'm a little worried because I saw this girl got banned for doing so when she applied to another entertainment company. Do you think they will do so for me?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wouldn't worry about it, but I would suggest not sending any more emails to the Global Auditions this year. Good luck!

      Delete
  24. I have a similar problem as chrissynessss and I'm really scared that i wont be able to audition because i did so

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you did it once or twice, I wouldn't worry. Just don't send another email to the Global Auditions for this year.

      Delete
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  26. Okay, I have 1 more question..
    what if you don't have the money to go to Korea to audition because SM says that you should audition LIVE... Does it mean that I will not be accepted because i didn't go? or Should I tell them via email that I'm poor and just tell me if I'm accepted or not or should I just send another video of me singing or dancing?

    I know this is a dumb question but we're just really poor to afford a ticket to Seoul. >< thanks for the answer btw. :)) sorry if I questioned too much.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's not a dumb question ^^
      If you can't make it to a live audition (Korea, LA, Japan, or one of their Global Audition stops), you will not be accepted. (That is, until K-Pop companies start using email/online auditions for something other than scouting).
      It is not a good idea to email them and tell them you are poor and can't come. SM is not swayed by stories like that, especially since some of their artists came from poverty (Jaejoong, BoA) and it gives you a helpless, begging image.

      Like scouting agencies, when they like you, they offer you a spot. If you can't make it (or don't call back) they might be disappointed but they quickly move on to the next person who calls back.

      If this is your dream and you don't have any money, don't stop trying to raise money. Baby sit, wash cars, put on a bake sale, etc. (or if you're old enough, find a minimum wage job). Even putting aside loose change and $1 bills accumulates fast.

      Delete
  27. what experience should i say ? I don't have any experience in singing in public but I know that I'm pretty good at singing :(

    Sorry for this question but I hope that you gonna answer it :)

    Kamsahamnida <3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Since you have no public experience, you can leave the field blank. Honestly, the judges are going to assume you do NOT have any experience. The field is just a place to highlight any noteworthy experience. Then, you let you talent speak for itself. :)

      Delete
  28. Quick Question but do the accept indians...?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes! Auditions are open to anyone regardless of gender, race, and age.

      Delete
  29. By 'Place of Residence'
    does it mean what country do you live in?
    or address?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It means the country you live in. Include the city too. (Example: Dallas, TX, USA)
      You should not include your address.

      Delete
  30. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  31. when i click in sigh up,i found that all thouse things are in korean but i can't read korean what should i do u can u help me plzz sigh up it for me just ask me and i will answer u

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. For SM? Just follow the instructions above. The do have an English option.

      Delete
    2. Or do you mean another company?

      Delete
  32. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  33. If you're going to attend a live audition (like SM Global Audition), do you have to apply by e-mail first or do you just walk in and audition?

    ReplyDelete
  34. @LjsPlaceHere
    You need to apply via email first.

    I know people have gotten into Globals as walk-ins in the past, but the polite and proper thing to do is apply first via email.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Do you know if when you're at the auditions, if you go earlier is it possible for you to audition before your assigned time. Lets say my auditions at 2 and i go at like 11 will i be able to audition before 2 if possible?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It depends on how organized they are, but usually* yes.

      However, if you aren't able to get in until your scheduled time or later, I wouldn't be surprised.

      Delete
  36. hi i just want to ask, i know SM Global auditions in Asian cities has ended but can i still submit email audition? or they wont accept any email auditions anymore?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes! SM accepts email auditions at all times, year round.

      Delete
    2. ohh okay thank you.. uhmm and if ever you got an email from them and got chosen, would the location of the audition is in korea?

      Delete
    3. They would ask you to come to their office in either Seoul or LA, USA. They would let you tell them what would be more convenient for you. If you live in the States and dont make frequent trips to Korea, it would be cheaper and easier you to visit their LA office. However, if you don't live in or near the US or Korea, I would suggest going to Korea over LA.

      Delete
    4. okay i got it.. thank you very much! sorry if i have too many questions but i would like to ask about the photos that i will submit? do i have to look formal in the photos?

      Delete
    5. No problem! Seriously, I never get tired of answering questions :)

      SM would like a front shot and a profile shot. Make sure the picture includes your entire face and that your face is not obscured by hair, hands, or weird facial expressions (no winking, etc.).
      The front shot is the front part of your face. Your profile shot is the side of your face.

      You should look nice, but make sure you aren't wearing ANY make-up. Also, remove any facial jewelry like nose or eyebrow rings (earrings are okay, but make sure they are simple). Also, if you have bangs, keep them out of your face!

      Delete
    6. oh okay.. thank you really.. :)
      but i haven't really decided yet if i would audition.. hmm.. anyway thank you @angelsfallfast again.. :)

      Delete
  37. Hi, I'm just wondering for the "Contact Information" (email audition), am I supposed to write down my contact or my parents'?
    Thank you ^^

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Provide the email and phone number that will get ahold of you the fastest.

      Delete
  38. Hey~ I'm here again.. I know that you're tired answering all of our questions but can I get some of your little time by answering this?

    Can I send a video/cover video/freestyle video unfinished? because I can't do this dance or it's just my limit.
    Thanks in advance. :))

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nope! I'll never get tired of answering questions :)

      How do you defined "unfinished"? Since the audition shouldn't be very long (~2 minutes maximum) you will be doing snippets of dancing anyway.
      If you dance a cover, you dance the minute or so of the part you are best at. If you freestyle, just pick enough moves to cover 30-60 seconds.

      I hope this helps! :)

      Delete
  39. (Hope this hasn't been asked) If I just go for the live, walk-in audition (not global), and I dance do I have to bring my own CD or do they play random music?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You don't need to bring anything! SM will provide the music :)

      Delete
    2. Thanks so much!! Sooo helpful :)

      Delete
  40. For the online audition, how do you know the career section you have to fill out is the same thing as experience?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Career and Experience are the same thing!

      At the age most people audition, there hasn't been enough time to build a career. It boils down to experience. :)

      Delete
  41. For the online auditions, do I have to send a video of me dancing even if I'm going to audition for singing only?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is not required, but I strongly suggest you do. Idols today are basically required to dance, and it is also transitioning to where soloist need to dance (or be like K.Will or Baek JiYoung good - but Baek JiYoung can dance!).
      It will certainly help your audition.

      Delete
  42. Hey. I was wondering if I still have to send them a video of me while dancing or singing even though I'm only auditioning as an actress or a model. And I don't really dance and sing. Thanks for your time.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The answer is no! You just need to send a video of your talent (acting or modeling).

      -From Rachel, posted by Hara :)

      Delete
  43. For the email audition, could i do a dance cover of BoA's song "Only You?" And I f that doesnt work out, can I sing "SEOUL" or "Santa u Are the One" by Super Junior.
    This will be the first time I will be auditioning for SM and I'm really scared if they don't accept me... I'm really curios on how the whole email audition works for dance and singing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Portia, :)
      Since you have concerns about acceptance, I suggest you don't use any SM Entertainment songs for your audition for either dance or singing. a) BoA's dances are notoriously difficult and if you aren't up to that level, they will judge you a ton harsher than if you dance another dance. b) SM doesn't take fan covers very seriously (as future artists under their label) unless the cover is very unique and very good (like SuPearl's cover of "The Boys" would be unique enough and good enough).
      I do suggest trying to choreograph your own dance. This gives you more points and interests the judges more than a cover. If the judges who review your tape are as bored and exhausted as the lady who judged my live audition, you will need something fresh and new to catch their attention.

      Dont worry about getting accepted or not. Most people have to try multiple times. For every 1,000 or so auditions, only 1-2 are chosen as trainees. Keep dreaming and keep working hard!!

      Delete
    2. Thank you very much!! But could you give me some suggestions on what i can sing or dance too? And have they ever accepted anyone who has braces/retainer?

      Delete
    3. Sorry for the questions..... But can you dance do one of SM'S songs but dance it freestyle?

      Delete
    4. Don't worry about braces/retainers. The judges know those things are temporary (and in the long run, it helps).

      What's you're singing range and what is your most comfortable style? :)
      For dancing, anything with a good defined beat. Like Younique Unit's "MAXSTEP", Rihanna's "Breaking Dishes", BoA's "Eat You Up", or Varsity Fanclub's "Zero".

      You last question is excellent! Yes! If you freestyle to it, that's okay :) It show creativity and dance ability. :D

      Delete
    5. Thank you! Thank you so much! I actually dont know my singing range.. But i'm comfortable with songs that dont have high notes.

      Delete
    6. Maybe you could try Karmin's "Brokenhearted", the beginning of IU's "Age of the Cathedrals", 15&'s "Somebody" or "I Dream", G.NA's "꺼져줄게 잘 살아" or even Girl's Day's "한번도 안아줘" (there's an awesome acoustic version on YouTube that they did.)

      Delete
  44. Just wondering but how long does it take for a reply to come back after a everysing/email audition? And can you sing with one song and dance on another one seperately?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. One more thing, can you apply for everysing an SM email audition at the same time or does it have to be seperately?

      Delete
    2. From what I understand and have experienced, everysing has a worse record than the email auditions. So I suggest doing email auditions,

      As for the audition, you will need to make a clip of you singing and a clip of you dancing. You should use different songs.

      You should only use one medium (everysing OR email NOT both).

      Delete
  45. Another question!! Do they have anybody who was Filipino? I heard that one person turned them down, but I don't know if they even let Filipinos pass. And my last name sound very Mexican... with that effect me a lot?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello again. :)
      I haven't heard anything reliable about them having a Filipino trainee. I did hear a few reliable blips about a couple of trainees from Malaysia (I'm not sure if they're still with SM - it was two or three years ago).
      Your last name will not matter. They care mostly about talent than your name. If they feel your name does not suit the image they want, they will just give you a stage name.

      Delete
  46. Hey, what if i want to be like F(X) and snsd and all , what do i have to do ? Sing ? Or what else must i do ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The way you will most likely be considered as an idol would be to audition as a singer and also opt to dance at your audition. You also must demonstrate in the 30 seconds you get to sing in front of the judge that you have personality and charisma and that big star "it" factor. (Now what that is totally subjective to whatever judge you get...) Also key is to know how to work the camera when they tape you without really looking like you're working the camera. [YoonA's audition was like that - nothing terribly noteworthy about singing and dancing but you really tell that she was meant to be in front of the camera]

      Delete
    2. But i'm currently in Singapore now . Foreigners are also allowed right ? I'm from Nepal but i was born in Singapore . Do i have to record my voice first ?

      Delete
    3. SM accepts all audition applications, regardless of race, gender, or age.

      As for making a recording: You can, but it is not required to do this for your live audition. It is required for your online/email audition.

      Delete
  47. Sorry , what do you mean by online/email audition ?

    ReplyDelete
  48. And by the way right, if we get accepted, do we have to pay our tickets to go Korea ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They are the first two options above.

      If you get accepted, you will have to pay for your own tickets to Korea until SM puts you under contract.

      Hope that helps!

      Delete
    2. Really ? Need to pay for our own tickets ? :( Is it expensive ?

      Delete
    3. Yes. The cost will depend on where you live and what kind of accommodations you can find in Seoul. Coming from the US, it costs me about $2,000 for the economy class plane ticket. However, I heard from a friend in Malaysia that it's only $200-$300 (cause Malaysia is way closer than the US).
      Accommodations in Seoul can range from $95 a night to much more. Hostels are cheaper, but you'd have to be braver! ^^

      Delete
  49. What does it mean by 'area of application' and 'place of residence'?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Area of Application just means what you are auditioning for (modeling, acting, singing, dancing, etc.)

      Place of Residence is where you live. For this purpose, can be limited to just the country or as detailed as city, state/province, country.
      EX: Toronto, Ontario, Canada [but you can simply leave it Toronto, Canada]
      EX: El Paso, TX, USA

      Delete
  50. hi, im just wondering why when the people sing in the everysing audition on youtube, they have music..is there any differnt between that kind of audtion and the one u mentioned? thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes. Glad you asked! :)
      SM allows you to record an audition using everysing's karaoke rooms. This is different from the Weekly Auditions. Think of it as a much more expensive version of the online auditions.

      I have never tried this method because it's really hard for non-Korean speakers to figure it out since would probably require asking the Korean-speaking staff lots of questions and intimate knowledge of a Korean karaoke machine.
      From what I understand you pay for the room (~$10 or more) and can use any of the karaoke tracks they have to record your audition. Then you send it in. They seem to treat it on the same level as Weekly Auditions as they post it with Weekly Auditions.

      [If someone has tried the karaoke auditions, tell me!!!]

      Delete
  51. Hi! So you think that, even if you aren't asian they could accept me if i'm pretty talented?? cause i know k-pop it's actually KOREAN but this sounds quite racist xD i mean if you're good why don't accepting you just because you don't have almond-shaped eyes??? D: i really would like to try auditioning but i would appreciate to be sure that they won't throw me out or ignore just cause i'm not asian! :S thanks for your time :)))

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. another thing! xD what do you mean by ''I will tell you 95% of the auditions will be in Korean!'' they will speak with you in korean even if you don't know it of something else?? didn't get it xD

      Delete
    2. SM's website states that they accept all auditions regardless of race, gender, and age.

      They will not ignore because you aren't Asian. As they try to make their way into the west, there will be more and more opportunities for non-Korean hopefuls.

      As for your second comment, I mean 95% of the auditions will be in the Korean language. Since you will mainly be recording in Korean, it is key to have good pronunciation. If you don't speak Korean, they already assume your English pronunciation is pretty good so they want to know your Korean pronunciation ability.

      Delete
    3. And how they will prove it?? cause if they speak with me in korean i won't be able to get a word of it xD
      i tried singing in korean and i don't have so many problems in pronouncing the correct way.. But how will they see that during the audition? may be you mean that, if i'm auditioning to singer, i have to sing in korean?? another thing, how about the fact that you have to dance even if you're there to sing? cause i'm not so good at free style :S
      Sorry for bothering °///°

      Delete
  52. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Hi~! :)
    Is it allowed to audition in dancing if you're going to use EverySing or EverySing is allowed to only who would audition in singing?
    Thanks ^-^

    ReplyDelete
  54. Hello, I have another question..
    Around how long should the dance clip be? For an email audition.
    Thank you~

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would have it between 30-60 seconds. This audition is where you need to get the judges attention, but you don't want it so long that they get bored and skip through the clip. Make sure to highlight your best moves in the clip!

      Delete
  55. Thank you for your info it was really helpful and I ca thank you enough for this
    But ... What song do you suggest we sing because I'm having a hard time choosing one now and can it be in other languages other than English? And if the song has a part where you rap (which I'm quite good at) , will it be helpful or sticking to a normal Korean song? Please help

    ReplyDelete
  56. Oh btw dancing can help with making your chances higher right? Can u suggest a few songs where I can dance to or must it be free style? And btw how long must the song be ? And I was thinking of using the email audition method how long shoul both the singing and dancing files be? HELP I know nothing but this is my dream

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You have some awesome questions!! I'm going to make a post about songs to sing and dance to. Thank you! :) I will let you know when it goes up.

      Delete
  57. So no make up at all? and do they want a full body shot or just the face?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No makeup! If you want to dab a little concealer on a fresh zit, that's okay. But otherwise the judges want to see your natural face.

      Include the two face shots (profile and straight on), but the full body shot is optional.

      Delete
  58. Do you have to apply before going to the weekly auditions in Seoul???

    ReplyDelete
  59. Hi, i have some questions:
    1. for email, i have to sing with or without the background music?
    2. how long could the mp3 file take (how weight could it be)?
    3. it ok if i record my song in studio but no editing? or i have to do with computer to show my voice as natural as possible
    3. for everysing, they will upload videos to utube always, sometimes or rarely....? i mean i rarely dont want so if i apply mine to sm
    3. im very shy to say that im just 1m64( sorry i dont know how many iches) and i'm a 97er boy. does it really matter?
    sorry for bothering and thank you very much! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 1.) Either is accepted, but strongly recommend acapella (no background music).
      2.) ...? Not quite I understand your question. Are you asking about the size of the file (kbs) or the length of the clip (minutes and seconds)?
      3.) As long as you sound natural and there is NO editing, it should be okay.
      4.) Please read #8 under "Online Audition" above. You must in order to submit it. They post the people who do not pass on YouTube.
      5.) If you don't continue to grow, height may be a small problem, but otherwise don't worry about it (if you're a 97er, you're 15 or 16 so you still have some growing time.)
      Being shy might be a problem if that overshadows your performance. SM is looking for charisma and stage presence.

      Good luck!

      Delete
    2. 1.yes no 2 is about the size of the size of the mp3 singing file (also the dancing clip and images). with that size the singing and dacing can take how long?
      2.i wonder if im replied by the generic message it means i failed, right?
      3.my phone number sent to Sm is with the local code? eg:0084083xxxx

      Delete
    3. 1.) It can be as big your email will allow it. I believe gmail limits people to 25 MB of totally attachments, so your photos and clips shouldn't be longer than that. everysing limits your clips to 50 MB.
      Please see "Basic Audition Q & A" for time limit suggestions! :)
      2.) Yes and no. Yes you failed in a way because you're not signed up for a private chat or audition, but no because you've gotten more of a response than most! It also means if you attend their auditions, you have your foot in the door. SM thinks you have potential, but the want you to practice a bit more before they consider you more seriously.
      3.) ? It's okay.

      Delete
    4. its very kind of you! thank you very much :)

      Delete
  60. Hi, I just sent my email audition yesterday and I'm kinda worried right now x) usually how long will they take to reply an email audition ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If they are seriously considering you, they should get back to you within 2-4 weeks. But SM is not known for it's speed!
      If you don't qualify, you will most likely not get any reply. After I did my live Weekly Audition, they told us we would get a reply via email within a month, but it's been almost a month and a half and I still haven't gotten anything.
      If you haven't received anything within about a month, I would assume that you didn't qualify and would start practicing for your next audition.

      Delete
    2. Hi! could you please tell me if there's any reply. Thank you!

      Delete
    3. I didn't get a reply yet :( but I wonder if they even check their mails

      Delete
    4. i wonder so too. @angelsfallfast are you sure that they will check mails and watch our singing, dancing,...?

      Delete
    5. Marine - they do check their mail! It's barely even the two week mark so if you've gotten a response already I would be really shocked.

      Duong Thanh - Yes. I can with certainty that the DO check their mail! Please understand that after Psy's success, the amount of interest in joining a K-Pop agency has sky-rocketed. Instead of a couple hundred emails a day, they are now hit with thousands of emails a day. It will probably take a while to sort through them all!

      Delete
  61. Hi, So it said on the SM audition site that they would prefer AOL or AIM mail, would regular Gmail still work? And do we put/fill out the application form thing in the email as well?(On number 6 in the email advice you put.)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My sister and I both used gmail, so gmail works! If you have AOL or AIM, I would use it, but I wouldn't make another account specifically for this. :)
      Just put it in the body of the email!
      EX:

      Name: Jane Doe
      School: North North West High
      Etc.

      Delete
  62. Is it a must to go for the live audition? And is there really a year round audition?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you wish to advance, yes.

      Please see my "Useful Guide to SM Entertainment" for audition times.

      Delete
  63. Do you recommend email audition or online audition more? Can I do both?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Email! :D

      I would strongly recommend you do NOT do both. Send your audition through only one medium. If you don't pass, wait awhile (say 6 months or so) and then you may submit another audition through the other medium.

      Delete
  64. Hi. You said they'd watch about 30 seconds of the video clip. Does that mean I should fit the climax of 3 songs into 30 seconds? And the dance video clip another 30 seconds as well?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, if you can!
      For example, if you sang "The Star-Spangled Banner", I would start with "And the rocket's red glare..." to the end.

      The dance clip should be a high light of what you can do. Say for example you can do the splits or something like Victoria does in "Chu". I would pack that in with a few of your best moves.

      Delete
    2. so it's gonna be 30seconds for each of the 3 songs? Will they listen that long? I don't really have any dancing basics, what should i do? pls help, thanks ><

      Delete
  65. Do you recommend singing SM artists' songs for auditions? Would they compare you to the original singers?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No. They would definitely compare you to the original artist! The building where it is hosted blasts their artists songs non-stop so they are definitely sick of it! The judge I got looked absolutely beat and definitely looked like she did not want to be there...so pick something new and fresh!
      The only time I would recommend singing an SM song is if you could rearrange it in a new and creative way, such as what Luna and Amber did with "NU ABO" on "Amazing f(x)".

      Delete
    2. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
  66. do you think that singing a DBSK song (JYJ and HOMIN) will annoy SM so my audition will be passed? im worried about it a lot!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would suggest avoiding those songs. I'm unsure of the judges' opinion towards JYJ and HOMIN, so depending on their moods it could hurt you...so I would avoid it in general. :)

      Delete
  67. Hi I have a few questions well I'm thinking to audition online via SMTOWN's official homepage I know that you have to put the Url / link for example of a video of youtube but I don't know that it has to be for example a video like that you record with Ipod or a make a video with a program like movie maker and you put the mp3 audio and a picture of you.??
    And how many songs I must sing in the video?? Or its just one song? I must sing in korean? I would like to make a video clip of my dance Can It be in the same video clip of my singing? And last question If you audition online via SMTOWN's page where can I see the reply??
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I believe they prefer a video of you singing as opposed to a video slideshow with your voice.
      Please refer to "Basic Q & A" (link is at the top and bottom of this article) for video clips lengths and times. :)
      I would make it one clip as they seem to dislike going through multiple links.
      If you audition via their SMTown page, you will receive a reply in your email inbox if they are interested in you.

      Delete
  68. Hii ~ I want to ask if i should record the dance cover and singing cover all in 1 video or 2 seperate videos? Thank you (: I would appreciate if you can answer my question :))

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. One video please! SM's staff seems to dislike going through multiple links. ^^

      Delete
  69. hi. i try to open the page global.everysing.com but i cant. it only said that it have in itune or google android. i cant click onto appplication. Can i skip that and go on to smtown.com?
    thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Just scroll to the bottom of the page and hit "everysing store".

      Delete
    2. Also, everysing, while affiliated with SM Entertainment, is a separate entity. If you are looking for SMtown, you need to go to www.smtown.com/link/audition. everysing itself only has the everysing audition.

      Delete
  70. i send the email to smtown. i dont know if i did it right. are u sure that they will see the email?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What email did you send? If it was a help email, they have a habit of not replying, but if it was your audition, they do check their email. However, it's not a great thing that you don't know if you did it right. You only want to send your best work that you've spent time on to SM - you want they to take time to read and evaluate your email, so you should take time to create your audition.

      Delete
  71. I'm 18 years old, is it still possible to audition?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes. SM accepts all auditions regardless of age, race, and gender.

      If it makes you feel better, I was one day away from being 20 when I went and did my Weekly Audition. :)

      Delete
  72. I'm 16, female, and I am 5 ft 10 (just under 180 cm). Would my height be an issue, am I too tall? :/ I'm pretty sure I've stopped growing as my height hasn't increased for a while. I have long legs :P

    ReplyDelete
  73. it is okeay if the voice is low vocal??
    and can't speak korean
    and no age limit??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's okay no matter what kind of voice you have!

      Kris, Tao, Lay, Henry, ZhouMi, Amber, and Victoria didn't know Korean when they joined SM, so it's okay.

      SM accepts all applications regardless of race, age, and gender (with the exception of Youth Star Auditions which are capped at 21 years of age.)

      Delete
  74. hi :)thanks you so so much for sharing this info with us!
    I was wondering that if we dance, will they play a random song for us or do we get to prepare our own disks?
    I'm confident in both my singing and rapping skills, not so much freestyle dancing. :/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Christina!

      At live auditions, www.smtown.com/link/audition asks that you not bring your own disk. The judge selects the music. Your only goal is to find the beat and show off your moves :)
      Honestly, they don't care so much about "can you dance like Michael Jackson", but more like "can you find the beat and move to it"?

      Delete
  75. Hi, I want to do an email audition since I live in florida, would it count as an actual audition or more as a registration to go audition somewhere? Also, where they ask for residence, is it where you came from(Uruguay)or where I live now?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It counts as "half" an audition. If they what they see, they might invite you to a live audition (this just gets your foot in the door most of the times).

      Also, for residence, they want to know where you are currently living at this very moment.

      Delete
  76. Hi! I did do an email audition some time ago and they sent an email with an invitation to a live audition (okay I won't call it an invite, more like an automated response). I'm not sure what's the next step I should take! I'm contemplating going for a live audition now (more than ever because I'm 20 and I'm really taking on this decision to make it a future career or else in the future I'll just die wrinkly, old and useless) but I'm so afraid I'd be so lost with everyone speaking rapid korean that I would never understand while i'm at the auditions.

    Any advice as an experienced one?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. First of all, it will depend on where you live now and your level of Korean.

      If you live closer to the LA office, go there for your live auditions. There, you are guaranteed a staff member who speaks English.

      However, if you live closer to Korea (or will be vacationing in/around there anytime soon), I would go there. They do have a bilingual translator to explain the audition agreement/application (basically stating that you are auditioning on your own free will and basic info on yourself).
      The judge will not speak English (and the translator mysteriously evaporates). My recommendation is to try and not be the first person in line. Follow the lead of the Korean speaker who happens to be in front of you. :)

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    2. Oh that's great! So you're alone in the room with the judges or do you audition with a group in a room but you go one at a time? And also, must you sing in Korean?

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    3. Hi Olivia ~ I sent an email audition too but I didn't receive any reply yet :( could you please tell me when did you receive an email back and how long did it takes for you to receive an answer from them ?
      Thx :)

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  77. is it ok if you have acne and bad skin?

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    1. That's fine. Both Key and Kyuhyun and Lay both have very rough skin! :)

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  78. Good day! Tell me please: song, as I understand, we can take any, but definitely need it to be in English or Korean?
    And can the judges to push my name in Korean parents named me Ko Mi Nam - it's a man's name, but I'm a girl ...
    I would be very grateful to you for the answer!

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    1. I'm sorry, but I don't know if I quite understanding your question! ^^ I'll try to answer the best I can, but if you still have questions, you can ask :)

      Singing in Korean or English is up to you. However, if you don't speak Korean singing Korean is a good idea - Super Junior-M's ZhouMi was chosen for his ability to sing a Korean song with perfect pronunciation despite not knowing Korean.

      I don't know what you mean by judges pushing your name, but honestly I don't seen Mi Nam as a boy's name :)

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  79. do you know what is ucc(video)url ? Because im planning to audition by online. thanks.

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    1. UCC means a URL link ^^. Stands for Universal Commercial Code. Just make sure the video isn't private!

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  80. I'm going to make a online audition as a singer but I gonna put a little dance in my video , do you think machine by Exo it's a good song for audition?

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  81. i'm from indonesia, can i join global audition in thailand?

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  82. Do SM Entertainment accept those who are wearing or have a False/Fake Teeth ( Just in front of mouth ) . Please Reply :)

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    1. It depends on why you have false/fake teeth. If it's because of a legitimate reason (such as missing teeth, broken teeth, etc.) it's okay. However, I wouldn't recommend wearing those fake pop-in teeth that beauty contestants wear (SM would prefer to have your teeth permanently fixed).

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  83. Hi well I auditioned for Smtown online audition and like 10 seconds later I got a message from S.M
    Dear .....
    Thank you for submitting your aplication for the S.M Entertaiment We have receive your complete application and any information given will be strictly confidential. If you have any questions or comments regarding this email please contact us at auditonhelp@smtown.com.Thank you again for your interest in S.M entertaiment Audition.
    Best of luck.
    S.M entertaiment

    Audition Manager
    Well , So that means that they actually haven't seen my audition?? Or what?

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    1. It means that they have seen that you have submitted an application, but have yet to review it. :)

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  84. Hi my friend and i are auditioning as a group but i was wondering if i could also do a solo audition. Any help would be great.

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    1. Yes, you may audition solo. If your friends are auditioning for SM, their website states that they do not allow group auditions.

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  85. i am just a 16year old girl living in hongkong.if i pass the first audition by email and they told me to hv the live audition in korea.but i cant afford the ticket to korea and my parents dont let me go to korea too because i am still hving my school in hongkong and they think that i m too small.what should i do?should i just give up this chance???or should i just tell sm that i cant go there??

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    1. "Commonly Asked Questions"

      Q: I live in a place that isn't close to Korea (I don't have a lot of money). Will SM pay for my ticket to South Korea?
      A: No. I have heard rumors that SM will sometimes pay for tickets for those they truly believe in, but unless you have BoA-level talent, don't count on it. You are going to be paying out of pocket until you sign the trainee contract.
      Even in the simplest terms, it would so not be cost effective to pay $300-$2000 a plane ticket (depending on where you're from), plus another ticket for hopefuls who are minors so they can be accompanied by an adult, for a group of people who won't turn back a profit (aka, become a trainee, stay being a trainee, and debut successfully).
      If you cannot make it to a live audition when asked personally, they will merely move onto the next hopeful who can make to the live auditions.


      Basically, if you can't make it, SM will pass on you. :/

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  86. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  87. after my weekly audition, will the judges say anything? and after that, what should i do? am i gonna stay there for like another hour? sorry^^" and did u pass your audition?

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    1. also, who will be listening to me while i audition? will i be alone with the judges?

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