K-pop entertainment agencies frequently engage in spontaneous street casting, scouring public spaces in the hopes of scouting potential trainees. This unconventional approach has led to the discovery of many popular idols, such as BTS Jin or EXO Sehun.
Jessica Jung was also street cast. She was scouted while on a family vacation in Seoul with her relatives from the US. Her trip eventually led her to become a trainee at SM in 2000, culminating in her debut as a Girls’ Generation member in 2008.
Recently, during her appearance as a guest on the podcast Daily Ketchup, Jessica discussed the distinctive experience of being street cast.
The host inquired about the criteria that companies consider when approaching young people on the streets, expressing concerns about the potential predatory nature of selecting trainees based on their visuals, especially underaged ones.
In response, Jessica said that, in her view, potential trainees are cast based on their first impression “aura”, the vibes that they give off. Jessica emphasized that some people naturally exude a unique presence that catches the eye.
Another host added that, in Korea, where street casting is considered normal, this concept might not raise eyebrows as much as it would in other cultures. However, Jessica disclosed that, even in a big company like SM, only a few talents were actually scouted from the streets.
Source: KB
