“I Was Scared”: HYBE Trainees Recount Unsettling Casting Experiences

Every trainee has a story to tell about their path to stardom, and in the case of HYBE’s survival show, R U Next? contestant Wonhee, the story has an unusual element to it. And she’s not the only one that told a tale of uneasiness when being approached by the casting agent!

Born in 2007 in Gyeonggi, Wonhee has been charming audiences with her stunning vocals, earning her the nickname “Vocal Fairy.” Offstage, she’s a sports enthusiast, an older sister, and a self-proclaimed cat (if she were an animal). But beneath this heartwarming exterior lies a rather eerie casting story that fans can’t stop talking about.

What's in WONHEE's Locker?
원희의 즐거웠던 기억을 남긴 4컷 사진

HYBE Next Girl Group Debut Project
매주 (금) 저녁 8시 50분 JTBC#RUNext #알유넥스트 #원희 #WONHEE pic.twitter.com/VgtUTcJXLS

— R U Next? (@RUNext_official) July 5, 2023

“I was at Express Bus Terminal Station,” she began. The story that followed was not the ordinary tale of talent spotting that fans might expect. In Wonhee’s case, the encounter began with a man who approached her with a simple question: “Do you know HYBE?”

What followed was a series of uncomfortable requests that could unsettle anyone, let alone a young aspirant. Instead of extending a business card, which is the typical professional protocol in talent casting, the stranger persistently asked for Wonhee’s phone number.

I thought you usually get a business card when you get casted on the street, but he kept asking for my phone number, so I was a little suspicious.

— Wonhee

This unconventional encounter is enough to set off alarm bells in anyone’s mind. Being approached by a stranger insisting on personal contact information is not just unusual — it’s potentially frightening. In an era where personal safety and privacy are paramount, such an experience can indeed feel scary, as Wonhee bravely admitted.

R U Next? – Profile & Poster Making Film#원희 CUT#RUNext #알유넥스트 #원희 #WONHEE pic.twitter.com/gYhIVboIg2

— 히히 (@21hee_) July 1, 2023

Interestingly, Wonhee isn’t the only one to have had an unconventional casting experience. Fellow “R U Next?” contestant Iris shared a similar tale, though hers unfolded on social media rather than the busy streets of South Korea.

Someone sent a message to my social media account. When I checked the profile, there were no pictures or followers, so I had no idea who he was.

— Iris

After receiving an unexpected invitation to audition, Iris understandably reacted with fear and declined the offer. But after discussing it with her mom, the young trainee decided to give it a shot — and we’re glad she did!

He suddenly asked ‘Do you want to do an audition?’ I was scared, so I just said ‘I don’t want to do it.’

— Iris

Despite their initial fears, Wonhee and Iris made the brave decision to follow this peculiar pathway that ultimately led them to HYBE, showcasing the courage necessary to become a trainee.

As exciting as it is to hear about the unexpected casting stories of HYBE’s trainees, it’s equally important to acknowledge that there’s room for improvement. Wonhee’s unnerving encounter, in particular, brings to light that casting methods in the industry could be updated to ensure the safety and comfort of potential trainees. It’s crucial for the process to be transparent, respectful, and considerate of the potential trainee’s feelings of safety and privacy.