9 K-Pop Idols Who Began Their Career During Their Middle School Years

Here are some K-Pop idols who started their career while in middle school!

Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor
4 min to read · Published : Sep 9, 2023 · Updated : Sep 11, 2023

9 K-Pop Idols Who Began Their Career During Their Middle School Years

SM Entertainment / EDAM Entertainment

In pursuit of their dreams to become a K-Pop idol, many celebrities dedicate their youth to training. They spend countless hours in the practice studio, preparing for a chance to debut and accomplish their dreams. While doing so, they often attend school, going through their adolescence balancing both homework and honing their artistic talents.

However, there are some idols that simply possess a special star factor that becomes apparent at such a young age. Due to their impressive skill, they're able to graduate the trainee life earlier than expected, despite not even completing high school. Then, there are some who debut even earlier than that.

Check out some of the idols who began their career in K-Pop while still in middle school!

1. SHINee's TaeMin

SM Entertainment

TaeMin is now a polished veteran in the K-Pop industry. He's evolved as an artist right in front of our eyes, but also grown as a person, in both age and demeanor. The idol debuted when he was just fourteen years old, while still attending middle school.

2. Jeon SoMi

THEBLACKLABEL

Jeon SoMi has become an incredible soloist, with a discography that many cannot stop listening to. Her journey as an idol started after ranking first on Mnet's "Produce 101" and becoming a member of I.O.I. And she was able to accomplish this feat while still in middle school.

3. IVE's Jang WonYoung

Innisfree

You cannot go anywhere in the K-Pop industry without seeing a mention of Jang WonYoung. She's received a massive amount of attention for her overflowing talents and incredible visuals. And all the love and support started while the idol was still attending middle school at the time of debut.

4. IU

IU's Instagram

IU has become a celebrity that everyone loves, whether she's standing on stage as a singer or actress. She stuns from every angle with her gorgeous visuals and continues to gain fans with her endearing personality. She appeared on the music scene while still attending middle school. IU has only improved since, becoming an international standout.

5. Krystal Jung

Lancome

Krystal Jung has gained countless recognition for her efforts as both an actress and idol. She's had an extensive career in the entertainment industry, making her debut in middle school. Since then, she's captured the hearts of millions, only improving as time passes.

6. An SoHee

The History Of Whoo

Before embarking on her journey as an actress, SoHee was a beloved member of the Wonder Girls. Despite starting her music career in middle school, she shone brightly underneath the spotlight, earning praise from fans and critics alike.

7. NCT's JiSung

SM Entertainment

JiSung glides across the stage, mesmerizing countless fans in the process. While he's had an incredible career so far, NCTzen will always remember JiSung's adorable visuals as a fresh-faced rookie. Despite making his debut at a young age, fans were already enamored by the talented idol.

8. ENHYPEN's Ni-Ki

BELIFT LAB

Ni-Ki has proven to be an incredible idol, able to dominate every performance from start to finish. Ever since his debut at fourteen years old, he's gained countless fans that endlessly cheer for him. Receiving such endless love and support helps him to grow into an artist fans are sure to be proud of.

9. NewJeans' HyeIn

NewJeans' Official Instagram

NewJeans has received worldwide success as both a group and individuals. Despite only being in middle school at the time of debut, HyeIn showcased her star factor and ability to absolutely shine. Now, she travels the world along with her group and was named as the brand ambassador for Louis Vuitton. With her skills and success she's received so far, HyeIn sure has a bright future ahead.

Can you believe these idols debuted in middle school? Are there any that we missed? Let us know in the comments!

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