Former HYBE Execs Launch Global K-pop Audition
Beatintel Staff · April 7, 2026 · 3 min read
Key Takeaways
- →RETOPIA SALON is holding global auditions in 18 cities.
- →The company aims to debut a new boy group in 2027.
- →Former HYBE executives are leading the venture.
Former HYBE executives have launched a global audition for a new K-pop boy group. The entertainment company, RETOPIA SALON, is targeting a 2027 debut for its first group, marking a significant step for the executives who played a role in BTS's rise.
This move matters to K-pop fans worldwide, as it signals another wave of potential stars emerging from the genre that has become a global sensation. For those who have watched BTS's journey from local idols to global icons, this audition represents a chance to witness the birth of the next big thing in K-pop.
RETOPIA SALON's Ambitious Plans
RETOPIA SALON, founded by former HYBE executives, is on a mission to discover the next big names in K-pop. The company is holding auditions in 18 cities across the globe, including major locations in Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, the United States, and Canada. Their search is open to applicants born between 2008 and 2014, regardless of nationality, and encompasses talent in vocal, rap, dance, or acting.
The company's founders, Bang Woo Jung, Kim Serene, and Park Jun Soo, bring a wealth of experience from their time at HYBE, having worked on projects involving BTS members Jin, Jimin, and Jung Kook. Their new venture aims not only to select members for the upcoming boy group but also to identify talent for a future girl group.
Bang Woo Jung, RETOPIA SALON's CEO, emphasized the goal of discovering hidden talent, stating, "We look forward to passionate applicants from around the world who dream of becoming global stars." The company's approach mirrors the comprehensive talent searches that have become a staple in the K-pop industry, as seen with HYBE's recent talent search in India.
Global Reach and Industry Implications
The global reach of RETOPIA SALON's auditions highlights the continued international appeal of K-pop. By casting such a wide net, the company hopes to tap into diverse talent pools, potentially bringing fresh influences into the genre.
This strategy aligns with K-pop's evolution into a global phenomenon, where international fans play a crucial role in an [artist](https://www.beatintel.io/article/royalty-infrastructure-artist-retention-2026)'s success. The auditions also underscore the competitive nature of the industry, as new companies strive to replicate the success stories of established acts like BTS.
As the K-pop market continues to expand, companies like RETOPIA SALON are poised to push the boundaries of what defines a K-pop artist. Their efforts could lead to new trends in music, fashion, and performance, further solidifying K-pop's presence on the world stage.
What To Make Of This
RETOPIA SALON's global audition is not just another K-pop talent search; it's a calculated move by industry veterans who have already proven their ability to shape global superstars. This initiative could very well introduce a new wave of talent that challenges and redefines the current K-pop scene.
The sheer scale of this audition process reflects the growing ambition and international strategy of K-pop companies. As new contenders emerge, the industry's landscape will likely shift, with RETOPIA SALON at the forefront of this transformation. Just as HYBE's $100M US expansion indicates broader ambitions, RETOPIA SALON's global auditions signal a bold step into an ever-competitive market.
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