You don't need to be Korean to be a K-Pop idol! When young kids all over the world dreaming of standing on South Korea's stage first realized this, a whole new world opened up in front of them. From BLACKPINK's Lisa to TWICE's MiSaMo, BLACKSWAN's Fatou, GOT7's Jackson Wang, Lapillus' Chanty, ChoCo's Anpan, X:IN's Aria, SECRET NUMBER's Dita, KISS OF LIFE's Natty and many more - some of the most beloved and successful K-Pop idols across generations have been foreign, and they have been embraced not just by Koreans but K-Pop fans globally. The immense heights that these foreign K-Pop idols reached quickly proved that talent cannot be bound by borders. So, the ultimate global talent hunt is on, and K-Pop companies are gearing up to find the next big star through worldwide K-Pop auditions.

 

International K-Pop Idols As A Reflection Of Globalization

In the beginning, when the second generation of K-Pop was advancing in full force towards expansion in Asia, the presence of a non-Korean member in an idol group was a reflection of this development. Soon after, as Hallyu crash-landed on the farthest corners of the world, leading to the steady globalization of K-Pop, we saw even more trailblazers like Taiwanese idol Amber Liu in f(x), Thai-American Nichkhun in 2PM and Sriya Lenka from India in BLACKSWAN. As such, foreign K-Pop idols have always been indicative of K-Pop's transnational impact.

We have also recently seen the rise of the 1st generation of global pop groups coming out of the K-Pop industry, such as all-Filipino group HORI7ON, JYPE's American girl group VCHA trained in the K-Pop system, HYBE's global girl group KATSEYE, and many more, which has opened the doors to endless possibilities for aspiring K-Pop idols all over the world.

It is quite natural, therefore, that in the current landscape, it is standard practice for K-Pop companies to seek out talent from all over the world for their idol groups. From the big 4 - HYBE, SME, YGE, and JYPE to more diverse companies like MLD Entertainment, WAKEONE, Kakao Entertainment, and ChoCo Entertainment - everyone wants to nurture the next big global star in K-Pop and to do so, inviting global applicants is a must. After all, amidst the fierce competition that defines the K-Pop industry, those who can swiftly identify and recruit from diverse talent pools first emerge victorious. The world is witnessing the globalization of the K-Pop dream, and the industry is catching up.

 

Spotlight On India: The New Epicenter For Talent

The latest hot spot for K-Pop companies to find the next diamond of K-Pop is India. Yes, the country known for its rich culture and heritage is also emerging as the goldmine for finding future K-Pop idols with the potential to take the world by storm.

Following Sriya Lenka's impactful debut in BLACKSWAN as the first Indian K-Pop idol, it was Aria, also from India, who debuted in X:IN, going viral at once for her charming visuals and talent. Both idols received immense love from K-pop fans all over the world and are moving forward in their careers, achieving one milestone after another. Sriya recently walked the runway for the brand GREEDILOUS at the 2024 F/W Seoul Fashion Week, and Aria is currently preparing to debut as a part of the multinational project K-Pop group Triple iz.

 

So, Who's Next?

According to ChoCo Entertainment, headed by ChoPD, it may just be Kashish Pushpak - a young girl from India who has just landed in Seoul to fulfill her dream of becoming a K-Pop idol.

K-Pop company ChoCo Entertainment has officially launched its 2024 Global Audition, aiming to scout the best talents from all over the world. ChoCo Entertainment, which is renowned for its unique artist incubation system, is setting eyes on India first and foremost to find its next big star. Towards this end, singer and dancer Kashish Pushpak has been chosen to fly out to South Korea and audition for ChoCo Entertainment.

ChoCo Entertainment's team personally escorted Kashish and her guardian from the airport, introducing her to her favorite Korean food, and showed her around, proving their dedication to caring for young artists and nurturing them to the best of their capacity.

On her second day in Seoul, Kashish met ChoPD, the CBO/Executive Producer of ChoCo Entertainment, sharing her dream of marrying Indian pop with K-Pop and creating a whole new genre that will dominate the global music scene. ChoPD was thoroughly impressed by her vision and showed enthusiasm about making her dream come true.

What is particularly significant about this conversation is that Kashish's dream is something that K-Pop fans in India also share. Collaboration between Indian artists and K-Pop artists is highly desired, especially if it materializes in the form of a unique and innovative new genre, paving the way for future developments and sparking a movement in global music. So, fans are already supporting Kashish and cheering her on for her journey.

About her experience in ChoCo Entertainment, Kashish shared, "I totally love this company..friendly, comfortable, helpful" and urged all aspiring K-Pop dreamers to join ChoCo's global audition, set to be conducted in a full-fledged manner in 2024.

 

How To Audition For ChoCo Entertainment?

ChoCo Entertainment's 2024 Global Audition for finding the next K-Pop star is currently underway, and applications are always open.

You can audition for Vocal, Dance, and Rap categories (up to three choices), and anyone is eligible to audition, regardless of nationality, age, or gender, which goes to show ChoCo Entertainment's commitment to prioritizing talent above all.

To apply, download the application form here, fill it out, and submit it with a video highlighting your vocal, rap, or dance skills in a 2-minute clip, along with a short self-introduction to [email protected].

For more details, check out ChoCo Entertainment's official website here.

Are you ready to be the next K-Pop star? What are you waiting for? Globalize your talent and apply now!

The K-Pop industry, a melting pot of diverse talents and backgrounds, has seen a rise in idols who grew up outside of South Korea, bringing a unique blend of global influences to the vibrant world of Korean pop music. These idols, originating from different parts of the globe, enrich the diverse landscape of K-Pop. Additionally, they showcase the genre's widespread appeal and global influence.

From adapting to new cultures to blending different musical styles, these idols' journeys represent a remarkable blend of resilience and creativity. Their experiences of growing up in foreign countries have equipped them with unique perspectives. This background allows them to infuse K-Pop with a rich variety of cultural influences and musical innovations.

 

1. BLACKSWAN's Fatou

Fatou, the Senegalese-born rapper, singer, and model, stands as a remarkable figure in the K-Pop industry under DR Music. Born in Senegal and raised in Belgium, Fatou's diverse background is a shining example of the increasingly global reach of K-Pop. As the leader of the group BLACKSWAN, she brings a unique blend of cultural experiences to her role, enriching the group's dynamic and appeal. Fatou's multilingual abilities are particularly impressive, fluently speaking five languages: Korean, French (her mother tongue), German, Dutch, and English. This linguistic prowess not only enables her to connect with a wide range of fans but also reflects the multicultural essence of K-Pop as a genre. Her ability to seamlessly switch between languages in her music and interactions adds layers of depth and inclusivity to BLACKSWAN's performances.

 

2. BLITZERS' Chris

Chris, a member of the group BLITZERS, brings an intriguing blend of Korean and American cultures to the world of Korean pop music. Originally from Korea, he spent his childhood in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, an experience that significantly shaped his artistic and personal development. Growing up in the vibrant and diverse environment of Las Vegas, Chris was exposed to a variety of musical influences and cultural experiences. This unique background plays a crucial role in his approach to music and performance within BLITZERS. His fluency in English, gained from his time in the United States, not only aids in his communication with international fans but also adds a global dimension to the group's appeal. Chris's journey from Las Vegas back to Korea to pursue a career in K-Pop is a story of bridging two worlds. It involves blending the Western influences of his upbringing with the Korean aspects of his heritage.

 

3. P1Harmony's KeeHo

Stephen Yoon widely recognized by his stage name KeeHo, is a shining example of the global diversity present in the K-Pop industry. Born in Toronto, Canada, Keeho's upbringing in a culturally rich and diverse environment has significantly influenced his artistic style and approach. As a Korean-Canadian singer, rapper, and dancer, Keeho brings a unique blend of cultural influences to his role as the leader, sub-rapper, and one of the vocalists of P1Harmony. His Canadian background adds a unique dimension to P1Harmony, contributing to the group's global appeal and versatility.

 

4. Tomorrow X Together's HueningKai

Kai Kamal Huening, popularly known as HueningKai from the group TXT (Tomorrow X Together) of Big Hit Music, embodies a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Born in Hawaii, HueningKai's early childhood years were spent in China, where he lived for seven years before moving to South Korea. HueningKai's multicultural background is further enriched by his family history. His father, Nabil David Huening, born in Brazil and raised in the United States, was an accomplished actor and singer in China. HueningKai learned English from his father and Korean from his mother, showcasing his ability to navigate seamlessly between different cultures and languages. HueningKai's journey, spanning continents and cultures, has played a significant role in shaping his artistic identity.

 

5. (G)I-DLE's Minnie

Nicha Yontararak, widely known by her nickname and stage name Minnie, has made a significant mark as a member of the South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE. Born into a musical family in Thailand, with her mother, aunt, and uncle being pianists, Minnie was surrounded by music from a young age. This early exposure to music played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic journey. Her talent and passion for music led her to participate in the Cube Star World Audition in Thailand, a stepping stone that eventually brought her to South Korea in 2015. Minnie's transition from Thailand to South Korea is a story of cultural adaptation and artistic growth. Her integration into the K-Pop scene as a Thai artist highlights the inclusive and international nature of the genre. In (G)I-DLE, Minnie brings a unique blend of Thai and Korean influences, adding depth and diversity to the group's music and performances.

 

6. Stray Kids' Felix

Felix Lee known by his stage name of Felix, born in Sydney, Australia, is a notable figure in the group Stray Kids. His journey from Sydney to the center stage of K-Pop is a narrative of determination and cultural fusion. Born to Korean immigrant parents in the suburb of Seven Hills, Felix's upbringing was a blend of Australian and Korean cultures. Felix's life took a significant turn when he received an online message inviting him to audition for JYP Entertainment. Felix's experience on the reality show that formed Stray Kids was a testament to his resilience and talent. Despite being eliminated in episode 8 due to struggles with the Korean language, his undeniable talent and potential led to his return in the final episode. This comeback confirmed his place in Stray Kids. The decision resonated with fans and highlighted the importance of diversity and perseverance in the industry.

 

7. Loossemble's Vivi

Vivi, a Hong Kongese singer and model, has carved a unique place for herself in the K-Pop industry. She is a member of Loossemble and LOONA, as well as its sub-unit LOONA 1/3. Before her pre-debut in the K-Pop world, Vivi worked as a model in Hong Kong, known by the name Viian Wong. Her foray into K-Pop began with an audition where she sang a song by Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai, showcasing her vocal talents. This pivotal moment marked the start of a new chapter in her life, leading her to move to Korea to pursue her dreams in the K-Pop industry. Vivi's transition to life in Korea was not without its challenges. Initially unable to speak Korean, she faced loneliness and cultural barriers. However, her journey was made easier by the support and encouragement of her fellow trainees. This camaraderie and mutual support among trainees are reflective of the collaborative and inclusive spirit within the K-Pop training system.

 

8. NCT's Mark

Mark Lee (or Lee Min Hyung), known professionally as Mark, is a prominent Canadian rapper, singer, dancer, and songwriter in the K-Pop industry. He is a member of the group NCT and its sub-units NCT U, NCT 127, and NCT DREAM, as well as part of the supergroup SuperM. Mark's K-Pop journey began when he passed the SM Global Audition in Vancouver, Canada, in 2012, subsequently joining SM Entertainment as a trainee. He was born in Toronto, moved to Vancouver, then to New York, back to Vancouver, and eventually settled in Seoul at the age of 13 to pursue his dream of becoming a K-Pop idol. This extensive travel during his formative years exposed Mark to a variety of cultures and lifestyles. This exposure enriched his perspective and contributed to his adaptability and diverse artistic style. His ability to seamlessly blend different musical influences and cultural experiences has become a hallmark of his performances in NCT.

 

9. TWICE's Tzuyu

Chou Tzu-yu, famously known as Tzuyu, is a celebrated Taiwanese singer making waves in the K-Pop industry as a member of the group TWICE. Tzuyu's path to stardom began in 2012 when she was discovered by talent scouts at the Muse Performing Arts Workshop in Tainan. This discovery led her to move to South Korea in November of that year to start her training. Her dedication and talent shone through during her trainee days, preparing her for the challenges and opportunities ahead. In 2015, Tzuyu's journey took a significant turn when she participated in the South Korean reality television show "Sixteen." This show, created by JYP Entertainment and co-produced by Mnet, was a crucial platform that showcased her skills and charisma. Her successful performance on "Sixteen" not only won her a spot in TWICE but also made her a fan favorite, paving the way for her rise to fame.

 

10. GOT7's Jackson Wang

Jackson Wang (Wang Ka-yee), a renowned Hong Kong rapper, singer, songwriter, dancer, and fashion designer, is a prominent member of the group GOT7 and the founder of Team Wang. Born in Hong Kong, Jackson was raised in an athletic household, with his parents being accomplished athletes: his father, Wang Ruiji, a fencer, and his mother, Sophia Chow, a gymnast. This athletic lineage played a significant role in his early life, leading him to start fencing training at the age of ten. Jackson's dedication to the sport led him to achieve remarkable success, including winning first place at the Asian Junior and Cadet Fencing Championship in 2011, as part of the Hong Kong national fencing team. Jackson's life took a dramatic turn in 2010 when he was scouted by a representative of the South Korean talent agency JYP Entertainment. He participated in the global auditions in Kowloon, where he stood out among the crowd, ranking first out of 2,000 applicants. This achievement led to a significant decision in 2011. Despite being offered a scholarship to Stanford University for fencing and the opportunity to prepare for the 2012 London Olympics, Jackson chose to pursue his passion for music. Consequently, he moved to Seoul, South Korea, for K-pop training.

The stories of these ten K-Pop idols, hailing from various corners of the globe, beautifully illustrate the rich diversity and international essence of the K-Pop industry. From Fatou's multilingual talents in BLACKSWAN to Jackson Wang's multifaceted career spanning music and fashion. Each idol's journey is a testament to the unifying power of music and the inclusive nature of the K-Pop genre. Their experiences, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers, not only enrich their respective groups but also enhance the global appeal of K-Pop. As the industry continues to expand its reach, these idols stand as inspiring examples of how diverse backgrounds and unique experiences can converge. Together, they create a vibrant, dynamic, and universally resonant musical landscape.

 

Feel the thrill of K-Pop and Korean artist happenings throughout North America this November. Discover the dates of fanmeeting and live performances by your beloved Korean artists using our monthly guide.

Note that shows in Mexico are included in the article that tackles concert happening in Latin America. You may check it here.

Check out the other K-Pop concerts and fanmeeting in other locations here: Korea, East Asia (except Korea), Europe, Pacific.

Note: This list is in chronological order and grouped by artist.

 

2023-2024 Eric Nam "HOUSE ON A HILL" World Tour Learn More

Dates / Venues

November 1 (Vancouver, PNE Forum)
November 3 (Seattle, Showbox Sodo)
November 4 (Portland, Roseland Theater)
November 6 (Oakland, Fox Theater)
November 7 (Wheatland, Hard Rock Live)
November 10 (Las Vegas, Brooklyn Bowl)
November 11 (Los Angeles, Shrine Expo Hall)
November 13 (Anaheim, House Of Blues)
November 14 (San Diego, SOMA)
November 15 (Phoenix, Van Buren)

Tickets

Offline

 

2023 EVERGLOW "ALL MY GIRLS" US Tour

Dates / Venues

November 1 (New Haven, College Street Music Hall)
November 3 (New York, Kings Theatre)
November 6 (Atlanta, Tabernacle)
November 8 (Washington, Warner Theatre)
November 10 (St. Petersburg, Mahaffey Theater)
November 13 (Louisville, Louisville Palace)
November 15 (Chicago, Patio Theater)
November 17 (Denver, Fillmore Auditorium)
November 20 (San Francisco, The Warfield)
November 22 (Los Angeles, The Wiltern)

Tickets

Offline

 

2023 xikers "TRICKY HOUSE: FIRST ENCOUNTER" World Tour

Dates / Venues

November 1 (Los Angeles, The Orpheum)
November 4 (San Francisco, The Warfield)

Tickets

Los Angeles / San Francisco

 

2023 PURPLE KISS "The Festa" Tour in USA

Date / Venue

November 1 (New York, Queen's Theatre)
November 3 (TBA)
November 4 (Philadelphia, Temple Performing Arts)
November 6 (Charlotte, Blackbox Theater)
November 8 (Columbus, The King of Clubs)
November 9 (Detroit, Garden Theater)
November 11 (Louisville, Art Sanctuary)
November 12 (Nashville, Riverside Revival)
November 14 (Kansas City, Gem Theater)
November 16 (Chicago, North Shore Center)
November 18 (Minneapolis, Granada Theater)
November 20 (Denver, Oriental Theater)
November 22 (Dallas, Gilley's)
November 24 (San Antonio, Vibes Event Center)
November 26 (Phoenix, Herbergert Theater Center)
November 28 (Los Angeles, Palace Theatre)

Tickets

Offline

 

Girls' Generation's HyoYeon "DJ HYO" in Vancouver

Date / Venue

November 2 (Harbour Convention Centre)

Tickets

Offline

 

The Rose "Dawn To Dusk" US/Canada Tour

Dates / Venues

November 3 (Houston, 713 Music Hall)
November 5 (Grand Prairie, Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie)
November 7 (Austin, ACL Live at The Moody Theatre)
November 10 (Phoenix, Arizona Financial Theatre)
November 12 (Inglewood, Kia Forum)

Tickets

Offline

 

2023 AB6IX "THE FUTURE" World Tour Learn More

Dates / Venues

November 3 (Chicago, Patio Theater)
November 5 (Jersey City, White Eagle Hall)
November 7 (Atlanta, (Masquerade Heaven)
November 9 (Dallas, South Side Music Hall)
November 11 (San Francisco, Blue Shield Theater)
November 12 (Los Angeles, Teragram Ballroom)

Tickets

Offline

 

eaJ "In Insomnia" Tour

Dates / Venues

November 5 (San Francisco, August Hall)
November 6 (Seattle, Neumos)
November 7 (Vancouver, Fortune Sound Club)
November 10 (Houston, Warehouse Live)
November 11 (Dallas, The Studio)
November 13 (Atlanta, The Masquerade)
November 15 (New York, Racket)
November 16 (Toronto, Annabel's)

Tickets

US / Toronto

 

Black Swan "Hello, Lumina!" 1st US Tour Showcase

Dates / Venues

November 10 (Los Angeles, Wilshire Ebell Theatre)
November 14 (San Diego, Music Box)

Tickets

Offline

 

Balming Tiger "January Never Dies" World Tour

Dates / Venues

November 11-12 (Los Angeles, Camp Flog Gnaw)
November 14 (Toronto, The Axis Club)
November 16 (Chicago, Lincoln Hall)
November 18 (Dallas, The Studio at the Factory)
November 19 (Houston, Warehouse Live Studio)
November 21 (Brooklyn, Warsaw)

Tickets

Offline

 

SUPER JUNIOR D&E "DElight PARTY" Fancon World Tour Learn More

Dates / Venues

November 12 (Vancouver, TBA)
November 28 (Toronto, TBA)

Tickets

Toronto / Vancouver

 

2023 GreatGuys "Record of Youth" World Tour (Cancelled)

Dates / Venues

November 12 (Denver, The Oriental Theater)
November 16 (Orlando, Edyth Bush Theatre - Orlando Family Stage)

Tickets

Denver / Orlando

 

2023 The Rain "Still Raining" Tour

Dates / Venues

November 22 (Atlantic City, Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena)
November 25 (Las Vegas, MGM Grand Arena)

Tickets

Offline

 

2023 OMEGA X "Keep Goin'" Tour

Dates / Venues

November 24 (Jersey City, White Eagle Hall)
November 26 (Chicago, Park West)
November 29 (Atlanta, Center Stage)

Tickets

Offline

 

2023 WOODZ "OO-LI and" World Tour Learn More

Date / Venue

November 30 (Los Angeles, Terrace Theater - Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center)

Tickets

Offline