Have you ever wondered, "Why did I pass the first round for JYP but fail instantly at SM?" 🤔
The answer is simple: Every agency is looking for a completely different human being. Sending the exact same audition video to every company is a rookie mistake.
In this post, I will decode the 2026 Audition Keywords for the "Big 4" (plus rising agencies). Knowing this will double your chances of acceptance.
Click here to see a visual breakdown of dance and vocal styles preferred by each company.
📺 Watch: Korean Dancers Compare SM, JYP, YG, HYBE Dance Styles
The "Big 4" Personality Check 🏢
Based on the debut trends from late 2025, here are the core values each agency is prioritizing right now.
- 🏢 HYBE (Performance & Perfection)
Keyword: "Stage Readiness"
HYBE labels (Big Hit, Pledis, Source) love perfection. They look for clean dance lines, powerful energy, and synchronization. Don't show "potential"—show them you are ready to perform at an award show tomorrow.
📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmSJFMmgqwE - 🏢 JYP (Personality & Fundamentals)
Keyword: "Healthy & Natural"
J.Y. Park still emphasizes character. They want trainees who look healthy, honest, and have solid basics. Do not use heavy makeup or filters. Show your raw, smiling self.
📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgzJ2RD17e8 - 🏢 SM (Concept & Visuals)
Keyword: "Neo-Visuals & Vocal Tone"
SM is the "Concept Master." They look for unique visuals that fit their specific universe (KWANGYA/Cosmos) and vocalists with a distinct, beautiful tone. If you are pretty/handsome or have a golden voice, try here.
📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4zihj44eq5U - 🏢 YG (Swag & Individuality)
Keyword: "Artistry & Confidence"
Can you write your own rap? Do you have a unique fashion style? YG doesn't want "cookie-cutter" idols. They want artists with "Swag" and confidence that screams "I am the best."
📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StkqHqE05G4 - ✨ ADOR / OOAK (The Trendsetters)
Keyword: "Vibe & Branding"
Following the Min Hee-jin legacy, these labels look for "Taste." It’s less about perfect high notes and more about whether you have a cool, effortless aura.
📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEGweDvaj7k
Strategy: Tailor Your Application
So, how do you apply this?
- Applying to HYBE? Send a dance cover of a difficult boy group choreography.
- Applying to JYP? Send a video of you smiling brightly while doing a basic rhythm dance.
- Applying to YG? Wear a hip outfit and rap your own lyrics.
Customize your content. It shows you understand their company culture.
2025.12.08 - [KPOP] - K-POP Audition 2026: Become the Next Global Idol 🌟
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Did you know that in 2026, your Instagram Reels and TikTok are just as important as your actual audition? 📱 Since late 2025, K-Pop agencies have officially started using social media channels as a primary evaluation tool for trainees.If your feed is emp
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Where is Your Dream Home? 🏠
Don't just apply everywhere. Focus your energy on the agency that fits your natural style.
In the next post, we will look at "Joint Auditions & Academy Casting: How to Get Seen by 80 Agencies at Once."
Which agency is your #1 Dream Label? Tell me in the comments! 👇
