KCC in Thailand
The vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand, has become the latest epicenter for the global K-pop phenomenon as a staggering 2,500 aspiring talents recently flocked to a highly anticipated audition event. The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) located in the heart of the Thai capital announced on June 1 that it had received an overwhelming number of applications for the audition held on May 26. The event, organized in collaboration with the renowned Korean entertainment agency Ador, showcased the immense popularity and influence of Korean pop culture in the Southeast Asian nation.
Young and talented individuals from various regions of Thailand, including Chiang Mai in the north, Khon Kaen in the northeast, and Songkhla in the south, eagerly lined up for hours, creating queues that snaked around the KCC building. The scene exemplified the unwavering passion and determination of Thai youth as they pursued their dreams of becoming K-pop stars.
In a bid to provide Thai youngsters with a gateway to stardom, the KCC has been actively partnering with leading entertainment agencies such as Kakao Entertainment, Source Music, and More Vision since February. These collaborations have allowed Thai talents to participate in auditions and showcase their skills in the highly competitive K-pop industry. The previous KCC auditions held in Bangkok and Buriram province attracted 770 and 500 applicants, respectively, earlier this year. When combined with the latest audition's turnout, a remarkable total of 3,800 Thai youths have applied for auditions thus far in 2023.
Director Cho Jae Il of KCC in Bangkok expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Through this opportunity, I expect talented Thai teens to debut as K-pop singers and lead the soft power of both countries." The auditions serve as a platform for cultural exchange, fostering closer ties between Thailand and South Korea while providing a chance for Thai youth to showcase their musical talents on an international stage.
The Thai Wave, a term used to describe the growing influence and popularity of Korean entertainment in Thailand, continues to captivate fans across the nation. The overwhelming response to the KCC auditions reflects the deep appreciation and admiration Thai youth hold for K-pop music and its vibrant culture. By harnessing the immense talent pool in Thailand, the auditions not only contribute to the global expansion of K-pop but also foster a sense of empowerment and aspiration within the Thai entertainment industry.
As the K-pop audition in Bangkok sparks excitement and anticipation, it serves as a testament to the ever-growing influence of Korean entertainment on a global scale. With each audition, Thai talents have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams, paving the way for a new generation of K-pop idols who will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the international music scene.
Sayart.net
Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com
