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If I am black but know some basic words in Korean and japanese can I debut?

Can you be American and be a Korean idol under JYP or cube or HYBE because I love KPOP so much I guess I am a koreaboo

Thank you comment icon You are gonna make an amazing idol. Maybe one day we both can I hope. Sama
Thank you comment icon thank you for this Mina
Thank you comment icon You can Beleive Choo
Thank you comment icon ok thanks for this Mina
Thank you comment icon Absolutely, mina-san! Talent knows no boundaries. If you’ve got the voice, moves, and dedication, you can break into K-pop—no matter where you're from. Train hard, stay confident, and never doubt yourself. The stage is yours to claim. ! Syuk Chang

+25 Karma if successful
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Subject: Career question for you

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Dr’s Answer

Absolutely, Jamirica! You can become a K-pop idol—whether you're black, American, or even from another galaxy (as long as you can sing, dance, and survive trainee life).

Your K-pop Survival Starter Pack:

1. Singing & Rapping – Your voice needs to shine brighter than a K-drama protagonist’s tears. Practice daily, because companies are looking for unique vocal tones and solid technique.


2. Dancing Like Your Life Depends on It – K-pop choreography is no joke. Start with YouTube tutorials, then level up to professional classes. If you can hit every move with precision and look cute doing it, you’re on the right track.


3. Korean Language Skills – Knowing annyeonghaseyo is cute, but you’ll need to level up if you want to interact with fans, trainers, and your future group members. Plus, understanding lyrics = deeper emotional connection with your songs.


4. Songwriting & Melodies – You already have a talent for this, so keep sharpening it! K-pop agencies love idols who can write their own music. Who knows? Your lyrics might become the next viral hit.


5. Charisma & Stage Presence – It’s not just about talent; it’s about how you own the stage. Watch performances of your favorite idols and see how they captivate the audience. Then practice in front of a mirror (or your skeptical pet).


6. Mental Strength – K-pop life isn’t all glitz and glam. Rejections happen, training is tough, and internet trolls exist. Stay positive, stay confident, and remind yourself why you started.



Encouragement Time! Because we all need it right.

My sister is like a legend in the making, and so are you because you both are going onto something, let me tell you she was too pessimistic about it but her passion gave her away. Whether it's A2K, online auditions, or even forming your own unique path, if you stay dedicated, you can make it. So grab that mic, hit that high note, and moonwalk your way into K-pop history!

Fighting! (And don’t forget to practice your fan service—throwing hearts and winking dramatically at cameras is an essential skill.) I had probably faint!

Good luck future K-pop idol looking forward to hearing your beats even from Mars.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate your support, Dr Mina
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Sama
Thank you comment icon My cousin is really inspired. M.
Thank you comment icon Dr, thank you! M.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Dr for the advice. M.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Dr for the advice. M.
Thank you comment icon Loved reading this, thanks! Choo
Thank you comment icon Dr, thank you! Gena
Thank you comment icon Mina will do amazing with such great advice's and mentors.😍 Hanna
Thank you comment icon You are welcome Jamirica glad to hear it (mean read it!). Appreciate your appreciation! 😶Woops. Dr H
Thank you comment icon Is it possible to become an idol even if I haven't finished my school degrees? Sama
Thank you comment icon yes it is you can become an idol Mina
Thank you comment icon Yes Sama just as Jamirica agrees it totally is, there are many idols who have not completed their schools but achieved that position. Like Jungkook from BTS he left highschool early to become a trainee and later earned his diploma through an alternative program. And then there is Taemin he debuted at 14 i believe and choose his career over. So don't ever be discouraged and know anything is possible and never impossible just takes dedication. Dr H
Thank you comment icon I agree with Dr H do what you want to do don't ever be discourage Mina
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Jamirica !

You definitely can pursue the K-pop genre, but it's not a matter of race at this time. There are American K-pop groups and places you can explore to possibly start learning more about what is happening with it in America.

JYP Entertainment in partnership with Republic Records is developing a Program called A2K. The program is a training ground for American performers who want to get into K-pop. There is also an organization known as EXP Expedition. They may not be a group that adheres 100% to the authentic K-pop genre, but it may be worth looking up these groups online and connecting with them. You can find JYP Entertainment's A2K program on You Tube. I also left a link for you of a list of K-pop companies and record labels that you may contact.

You didn't mention how old you are and although there are older K-pop performers, I am assuming you are a younger teen. If that is the case, before you do anything, you are going to have to discuss your K-pop plans with your parents. They would need to oversee, manage and supervise your involvement every step of the way. You are also going to need them for transportation, hotels for overnight stays for auditions out of town or gigs out of town, so make sure your parent can accompany you through your plans for this. If you are 18 or older, you can pursue it on your own and hopefully have a car and like to travel by plane to auditions that may be far away.

So, American K-pop and English Speaking K-pop is emerging, for sure, but it's just a question of what type of support system you have right now that can help you facilitate your K-pop career.

I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !

Michelle recommends the following next steps:

LIST OF K-POP RECORD LABELS AND COMPANIES https://kpopping.com/profiles/the-companies
Thank you comment icon Thank you for giving me advice. Mina
Thank you comment icon Michelle, thank you! Sama
Thank you comment icon Thank you for taking the time to help. M.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Gena
Thank you comment icon You are very welcome ! Michelle M.
Thank you comment icon Thank you Do you like kpop Mina
Thank you comment icon Yes, I like K-Pop and I like the clothes/fashion, too ! I don't listen to it much but when I have the chance, I think it's entertaining. Michelle M.
Thank you comment icon Seriously, you’ve nailed it with such a great response—Jamirica is on the right track. The fact that there are American K-pop groups and programs like A2K shows how the genre is expanding beyond just Korea, which is so exciting! The advice to involve parents is spot on—getting to auditions with an adult who’s ready to support you through the hustle is crucial. And the fact that Jamirica has all this passion, talent, and drive? She’s definitely got a chance to make it! Plus, knowing there’s an entire list of K-pop companies to explore? Game changer! Great hit on the advice for all the positive vibes and tips, Michelle! Dr H
Thank you comment icon @Dr. H - Thank you for your feedback ! Much appreciated ! Michelle M.
Thank you comment icon You are so welcome Michelle a great advice needs a nearly great feedback. 😅😎 Dr H
Thank you comment icon Thank you guys Mina
Thank you comment icon This is amazing how you get responsive advices and love the different ways. Sama
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Karin’s Answer

Hi Jamirica,

Others have already given useful advice, and I am not going to repeat it. I just wanted to add, do not self-limit yourself with doubt about your race or nationality. Make some contacts with other aspiring K-poppers and learn all you can and practice, practice, practice. You will have ups and downs. That's normal. You'll find out if this is really for you. If black K-pop is not yet a thing, you can forge your own path and make it a thing. Nobody can promise you success, but if this is what you want, go for it.

All the best!

KP
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Karin! Mina
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Gena
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Iryna’s Answer

Hello!

Yes, it is possible to debut as a K-pop idol even if you are not Korean. Several non-Korean idols have successfully debuted in major agencies like JYP, Cube, and HYBE. Here are some key points to consider:

Key Considerations
Diversity in K-pop: The K-pop industry is increasingly embracing diversity, and many groups now include members from various backgrounds and nationalities.

Language Proficiency: While knowing some Korean and Japanese is a good start, becoming fluent will help you communicate better and connect with fans.

Training: Agencies look for talent, so undergoing training in singing, dancing, and performance is essential. Consider taking classes to enhance your skills.

Auditions: Keep an eye on audition calls from various agencies. Prepare a strong audition by showcasing your unique talents and personality.

Passion and Commitment: Your love for K-pop and willingness to work hard will be crucial in your journey.

Inspiration
Many idols, like Blackpink's Lisa and NCT's Mark, have demonstrated that talent and dedication can lead to success, regardless of nationality. If you are passionate, focused, and committed, pursuing a career as a K-pop idol is definitely attainable!

Good luck!
Thank you comment icon I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Mina
Thank you comment icon Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action! Sama
Thank you comment icon Loved reading this, thanks! Choo
Thank you comment icon Thank you both . You guys are very smart. Do you guys like kpop Mina
Thank you comment icon Iryna, you’ve hit the nail on the head with this! Your response is packed with real advice and inspiration for Jamirica. The diversity in K-pop is such an exciting development, and seeing non-Korean idols like Lisa and Mark achieve their dreams proves that hard work and passion are what truly matter. You’ve made an important point about language proficiency—being able to connect with fans and fellow members is essential. Training and auditions are key steps, and your encouragement to stay focused and committed is exactly what Jamirica needs to hear. I would Say a wow for offering such a positive, practical, and motivational response! Dr H
Thank you comment icon Wow very touching words Mina
Thank you comment icon Thank you Jamirica, also yes I do listen to K-pop I can't deny they got really good music too! Plus having my late teenage sister (17) she won't stop talking and singing. Won't say it's not annoying but also made me find some good music too, uh what can you do other than enjoy it even if it too chatty! 😉 Ps: You are smarter than I was as a kid so take the credit. Dr H
Thank you comment icon Do I need to be talented? Sama
Thank you comment icon yes talent is everthing Mina
Thank you comment icon Hey Sama! Talent helps, but hard work and determination matter even more! Fun fact: JYP himself failed multiple auditions, and now he runs one of the biggest K-pop companies. So, if you’ve got the passion and can survive endless dance practice (and maybe some ramen nights), you just might make it! Lets say talent just boosts your way up faster. Dr H
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