Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience is a music experiment like no other.
This brand-new acquisition, on iPlayer and 成人论坛 One, is a collaboration between Moon&Back Media, SM Entertainment, and SM & Kakao Entertainment America. The six-part series will follow Blaise, Dexter, James, Oliver and Reese as they are put through the K-pop training process with the goal of launching Dear Alice, a new boy band on the global stage.
Cameras go behind closed doors at K-pop talent powerhouse SM Entertainment for the first time to witness the band working with the world鈥檚 greatest choreographers, singing songs from the best songwriters, and being tutored by some of the most revered experts in the K-pop business.
SM Entertainment has been a leader in South Korea's entertainment and media industry for the past 30 years and is the company that founded and led the system that made K-pop a worldwide phenomenon. SME also orchestrates all aspects of the artists鈥� journeys in the business including album planning, production, distribution, promotion, and artist management.
Filmed in South Korea, Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience sees the boys immersed into K-pop culture and put through SME鈥檚 K-pop training process for 100 days. They will face a schedule of choreography, vocal and performance lessons, life coaching techniques, alongside an immersion into all aspects of Korean life - set against Seoul鈥檚 striking landscapes and iconic K-pop locations.
Each week the band鈥檚 progress is critiqued by undisputed K-pop expert, Hee Jun Yoon, the creative force behind some of the biggest K-pop bands of the last 20 years. This is the ultimate boot camp by the people who have created the world鈥檚 biggest K-pop superstars 鈥� but success is far from guaranteed.
The producers for Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience are global entertainment and music genre specialists Moon&Back Media, part of the team who developed and produced some of the world鈥檚 most travelled formats (Got Talent, The X Factor) and popular bands (One Direction). ITV Studios handles international distribution.
Watch Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience on iPlayer and 成人论坛 One from Saturday 17 August at 5.15pm
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Meet Dear Alice
Blaise Noon
Age 19, from London
A Brit born in Belgium, Blaise moved to the UK when he was 14 to study Musical Theatre at the BRIT School in Croydon, which he credits as having helped shape who he is today. Whilst training there, Blaise also spent his weekends dancing at Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance.
Blaise grew up acting, singing and dancing. He is the youngest of four siblings, all of whom are performers, some professional but others just for fun. His mum has always been interested in the arts, with a passion for acting. His father works in Brussels, where he also runs a youth theatre company.
After leaving the BRIT School, Blaise won a place to train at the prestigious Urdang Academy, specialising in dance and musical theatre. He also joined several dance groups and has trained in multiple different dance styles.
In addition to performing, Blaise enjoys running, various sports, working out at the gym and playing PC games with his friends. He loves the arts, so goes out to watch dance shows, plays, and musicals whenever he can.
Blaise would describe himself as a thoughtful, analytical, driven and kind person. He loves to have a laugh but is able to switch quickly into being serious and disciplined whenever it鈥檚 required.
In Seoul, Blaise enjoyed sight-seeing, meeting new people and learning about the culture.
Interview with Blaise
Tell us a bit about you and how you got into performing
I started performing at a young age, I started in musical theatre. Some of my siblings did dancing and one day my mum took me along to pick them up and said that I could try it out. So, I tried out a few classes, I started off in ballet, and I started exploring loads of different dance styles, and singing a bit more, practicing some monologues and that took me to where I am now 鈥� quite a few years later!
Why did you apply for the band and the show?
I never thought I'd be in a boyband! I never thought it was even a possibility, so it didn鈥檛 even cross my mind to aspire to be in one. When I got an audition for it and got closer and closer and met the other lads it became real, and we were in Korea three months later!
How much did you know about K-pop before you got into it?
I was definitely aware of it and I'd heard of a few bands, I didn鈥檛 know a huge amount, but I learnt more when I decided to audition. It鈥檚 been quite a learning curve, especially in my time in Korea and something I鈥檝e enjoyed learning about.
What do you bring to the band, Dear Alice?
I think in the process we鈥檝e learnt to work as a band more than as individuals and that鈥檚 been a big goal for us and it鈥檚 a big part of K-pop bands we鈥檝e taken inspiration from, but we all bring something unique to the band.
How do you get on with your fellow bandmates?
It鈥檚 a bit cringe to say but we really are like a big family! We鈥檝e been together for eight months and they鈥檙e like brothers to me.
How did you find Korea?
I didn't know a huge amount about Korean culture, so I came in as an open book wanting to learn about everything and I think we all did. I'd never been outside of Europe before, so it was very new for me. Over the four months out there we got to explore a lot of Korea and I'd really like to go back and explore more of the country outside of Seoul.
Tell us a bit about going to BRIT school鈥�
Throughout the different places I've trained I really built up my skillset 鈥� I worked really hard while I was there on my dancing, singing and acting. I think it made the process easier as a lot of the skills I built there are transferable to this experience, but I think there鈥檚 a very different focal point in K-pop performance, so it was still a challenge.
Do you think growing up in Belgium impacted how you took on the challenge?
Growing up in Belgium; it鈥檚 very multicultural and a country of lots of different communities which was nice to experience. So, when I moved to London, I carried that with me and got to know English culture and I think I have a little bit more experience which made it easier to go to a new country - I was very open and excited to experience Korean culture when I arrived.
What do your family think about the experience?
My family are extremely supportive, and they always have been, so they were very excited for me.
How did you find the standards in Korea compare to your other studies? Did it differ?
The standards of the instructors and all the staff at SM Entertainment were world-class. It was an amazing experience and one I'm immensely grateful for. In K-pop the standards are so high which means a lot of feedback is needed so it was quite a shock at first. A few of us took it personally, but throughout the experience we got used to it and realised it was really coming from a place of love, and for the good of the band. Once we accepted that and realised it was constructive it got easier to accept. We had a very supportive team around us throughout.
Dexter Greenwood
Age 22, from London
Dexter grew up in South West London and has been dancing and singing from a young age. He attended D&B Academy of Performing Arts for after-school classes from the age of 14 to 18. In 2020, he enrolled in a three-year diploma course at D&B and graduated in June 2023.
He describes himself as loud, charismatic, energetic, and friendly. Outside of singing and dancing, he loves to play five-a-side football with his friends and FIFA on the Playstation 5... he did confess to being a 鈥渂it of a geek鈥� when it comes to video games.
Dexter was diagnosed with type one diabetes when he was 17 and had to learn to manage his blood sugar levels by injecting insulin when necessary. Managing life with diabetes was a big change for him; but he has adapted and he doesn鈥檛 let it get in the way of living life to the full and realising his ambitions.
He was introduced to music from a young age as his dad worked as a DJ for over 20 years; often gigging all over London and the UK. When Dexter was younger he always dreamt of being in a boyband, this opportunity really is a dream come true for him! Within the group Dexter sees himself as the energetic one, but also the person who will genuinely look out for all the other boys and help them along the journey in whatever way he can. When he鈥檚 not rehearsing with the boys, he loves to clothes shop!
Interview with Dexter
How did you get into performing?
As a young kid I always had a lot of energy, we watched a lot of music videos, different shows on TV and I always wanted to get involved. I remember being in my living room dancing about (very badly!). And at parties, family weddings and such I was always the one on the dancefloor. I didn't really get into it properly until I was about 13, when I decided I wanted to stop football and get into dancing. I went to a Saturday theatre school and put everything into that, and my life became performing.
Tell us about how you came to apply for the band
I heard about a really cool boyband audition opportunity; I've been based in musical theatre, but my dream was always to be in a pop band. So, I sent in a tape to audition and I was actually up in Newcastle doing a pantomime when I was asked to travel down to London to audition in person, and here I am now.
What did you know about K-pop before the show? Were you a fan?
I was a bit of a novice when it came to K-pop, I'd heard of some of the bigger K-pop stars but I have a cousin who鈥檚 a huge fan and taught me all about it! As soon as I got to Korea I learnt so much more and it was so cool to learn about a whole new style of music from scratch.
What do you bring to the group?
I try to bring a lot of energy and positivity and just keep everyone upbeat. We work hard so it's important that we stay on top and keep it up!
Do you get along with the others? What鈥檚 it like in the band?
I would describe it as having four new brothers, I love them all and we all get along. Sometimes we can bicker or fall out 鈥� as you do with siblings - but any day we spend together is always loads of fun, it鈥檚 just like hanging out with my mates.
How was being in Korea 鈥� did you explore?
I really loved Seoul, it was great to experience such a different culture. I enjoyed just walking around and experiencing it all, even small things felt so much cooler! I tried to experience all of Seoul that I could.The area we were staying in Itaewon had lots of cool shops. There was a Bonsai Master across the road, so we made a small community at the time. Everyone was super friendly, you could have a chat with anyone and people would say hello as you walked past. Everyone was really welcoming.
You鈥檙e bilingual and speak French - did you learn much Korean?
I thought I'd be able to - I definitely think of myself as a linguist, so I went out a bit cocky thinking I'd learn easily! But the new alphabet and the sounds were too hard for me, so I did let myself down a bit. I learnt the basics and some very simple Korean. Luckily for us a lot of people spoke English, but I did hope to learn more.
You live with Type 1 diabetes - how does that affect you day-to-day and your training?
I think - as all people with Type 1 diabetes will know - your life changes when you find out you have it, you have to think differently and plan things differently. I've had it for five years now so in that time I learnt how to deal with performance days, training and things like that. I always do my best, but I think it鈥檚 just a bit more planning and thinking ahead. It's definitely not easy, but it can be done.
I always have hidden snacks somewhere, if we鈥檙e filming a music video I make sure they鈥檙e out of shot 鈥� but just maybe a banana or some Haribo stashed away!
You grew up in a musical family. Did that influence you?
My dad is big into DJ鈥檌ng - he鈥檚 very cool, a lot cooler than me, he has hundreds of records! But definitely the musicality and just being around music all the time, when he was cooking at home, or getting to go backstage at festivals and meeting other DJs. It definitely inspired me and made me think I can do this as a career.
What do your family think about you getting into band?
They were thrilled! As a performer everything isn鈥檛 guaranteed but they鈥檙e very happy that I got the opportunity to go, especially as it鈥檚 something I've dreamt of since I was a kid. My mum was a massive fan of boybands back in the day, so she was super chuffed.
How did you find your critique sessions with Hee Jun?
It was a new experience for all of us and what they do in Korea is vastly different to what we do in the UK. The feedback wasn鈥檛 sugar coated, it was to the point but I think we needed to hear it and it was all given to help us achieve our goals. Before that point we weren鈥檛 really sure what we were and how hard it is to be a K-pop idol. It could be tough but it was needed and you鈥檒l see how much it was worth it in the end.
Outside of the band what do you like doing?
I love football, huge supporter of Arsenal (just missed it this year!). My love is music and dancing and that takes up a lot of my life. Outside of that I鈥檓 quite normal and like hanging out with my mates, I enjoy going shopping and I quite like fashion, and I play a lot of video games.
James Sharp
Age 23, from Huddersfield
James is from Huddersfield and is music-obsessed! A songwriter and producer that plays many instruments, but mainly guitar, he loves writing song lyrics and producing his own music. He has been doing this since he was 15 and he loves to dance too. He has produced his own tracks which have got up to 800,000 streams. He is incredibly creative and beyond his love of music and dance, this extends to a passion for fashion. James also expresses himself through his clothes, he enjoys exploring different looks and styles.
Before being in the band, he lived at home in Huddersfield, with his mum, dad, and identical twin brother, Lewis. Dancing and music have always been his passion, and he began attending after-school dance classes aged 10, but he鈥檚 never had any professional training.
Along with his brother, James has amassed a collective social media following of over 7 million. Their SHARPTWINS page started in 2019 and currently has 5.5 million followers on TikTok. He runs his own personal account as well, which stands at 1.3 million followers. Embracing the power of social media, he says that these platforms go hand in hand with supporting his endeavours in music. As he now embarks on the journey with Dear Alice, he鈥檚 excited to have this opportunity to work with and learn from some of the best creatives in the world.
He has appeared on several TV shows including MTV Cribs with his brother Lewis and Blue Peter. He also danced in the movie adaptation of Everyone鈥檚 Talking About Jamie.
As the oldest in the band, he often takes on the 鈥榦lder brother鈥� role looking out for the others.
Interview with James
How did you get into performing?
I鈥檓 from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire and we鈥檙e a bit in the middle of nowhere 鈥� farms, cows, sheep are who we perform to! There鈥檚 not much going on, but me and my twin brother have always loved creating things and have been obsessed with making videos and dancing and we just couldn't stop moving. I always struggled to focus in school, it just wasn't for me. My parents decided to put me and my brother into dance lessons and from then on I was obsessed! I was dancing all the time, and I found a way to channel my energy in the right direction.
I kept focusing on dancing and also fell in love with music in the process and started making my own. I picked up a guitar and a ukulele when I was about 13 and just kept constantly playing and then got into music production. I got into writing and singing later and everything came together. I just couldn't keep myself away from music and dance!
Why did you apply to be in the band?
I love dancing and music, so it just made sense. It was quite a big process with so many talented people and I was luckily one of the five that got in.
What did you know about K-pop?
I actually didn鈥檛 know too much. I'm into a lot of different music like indie, hip-hop, rock. So going into the K-pop world was a really amazing journey of discovery and I've learnt so much since then 鈥� bands I really like include RIIZE and aespa.
What do you bring to the band?
I think we all bring out the best side of each other. I'd like to say because I'm the oldest I'm like the older brother 鈥� but I'm not sure the boys would agree if I said that!
How do you get on with your fellow band-mates?
We are constantly together, which can be tough, but we do really get along which I didn't even think was possible because me and my twin brother always argue when we live together! We all have our moments, but that鈥檚 all part of building a friendship and being part of a team, you get over those hurdles and learn more about each other. It's all been great and super positive.
How was being in Korea?
Amazing. One of my favourite parts was experiencing the food. Korean barbecue and rice balls 鈥� so good! The best part is you do it yourself, I can't wait to go back and eat it all again. And the people! The people are wonderful, everyone is so respectful and friendly, everywhere you go you get a smile.
How has the experience been? What do your family think?
Being away from family for so long was weird, I didn鈥檛 realise how much of a twin I am until I had the distance from my brother! I think only twins can understand but being so physically far apart from my brother was the hardest part. He's my other half, really. But it鈥檚 part of growing up and being independent from each other is something we have to learn! He鈥檚 rooting for me and we're constantly proud of each other, best brother ever!
In the show we see you working hard, getting critiques - how did you find it?
I thought the criticism I had was all completely fair. SM Entertainment know best, so I was happy to take it all on, and it made us better and who we are now.
Olly Quinn
Age 20, from Sunderland
Olly is originally from Sunderland. He graduated in 2023 from the Laine Theatre Arts and Bird College with a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Musical Theatre. Prior to joining the band, he lived with his mum, nana and dog 鈥� he hopes to make them all proud!
Olly has been singing, dancing and acting for as long as he can remember and is no stranger to vocal classes. He attended Durham Chorister School for six years, from the age of 7 until 12. During this time, he boarded for one year and would wake up at 6am each morning to train and would sing in over five services a week. He then went on to study at Sedbergh School in Cumbria after receiving the Roger Lupton Scholarship which is awarded to one child a year.
As well as being an active member of the National Youth Choir of Great Britain (NYCGB) boys and training choir for approximately five years, throughout his schooling he also performed in professional theatre productions around the north of England.
His mum Debra danced from the age of six herself and she happened to also travel around South Korea, dancing professionally, at a similar age to Olly now. She also modelled and, again, similarly following in her footsteps, Olly has also done some modelling, working for brands such as Chanel, Versace and Harrods. Given the chance, his mum would have loved a career in acting and musical theatre too so he鈥檚 now taking this opportunity not just for himself, but for her as well!
In Seoul, Olly often sparks the fun, despite his initially quiet and polite demeanour. Quick-witted and playful, he enjoys pranking his bandmates, watching films, and his hobbies include Lego, photography and looking after his two pets - a leopard gecko and royal python snake.
Interview with Olly
Tell us about you and how you got into performing.
I鈥檝e been performing forever. Mum put me in the Bonniest Baby Competition in Sunderland, and I won! From there it spiralled into singing and acting and dancing. More singing and acting than dancing 鈥� as you鈥檒l see in the show! Mum was a dancer, dance teacher and model so she had that performance spark in her.
Why did you apply for the show and band?
I鈥檇 just left performing arts uni having finished my degree, and I was working as a model and as an event staff member and doing lots of events around London and some television work. Then I got word of the audition 鈥� at first I didn鈥檛 think it was real, but I went for it anyway and now here I am!
How much did you know about K-pop before the experience?
I鈥檝e been a fan of Western boybands and listen to a few but didn鈥檛 know a whole lot about K-pop before going into this. One thing I did know was how big it was, I knew how international it is and that it鈥檚 very much growing every single day. I was seeing a rise in K-pop artists in the charts, bands like Coldplay collaborating with BTS - which is massive. Actually, being in Korea made me realise just how big a deal it is. It's huge, it's everything there and really part of culture. We鈥檝e all learnt a lot in the past few months, so we definitely know a little bit more!
What do you bring to the group?
As a performer I think my input into the band is singing more than dancing. Although I have had some dancing training, I think I am more of a singer than a dancer, and through the show you really see that and my journey in developing the combined performance that K-pop artists do so well. In terms of my personality, I think I'm quite chilled, I like to make people laugh and make sure everyone is ok and happy.
Do you all get along?
We all get along really well. We're all different personalities and none of us are the same at all but it鈥檚 really good. We gelled really quickly, probably by the first week of being in Korea and living together we made quite a close bond. It鈥檚 great, and I can really see it lasting a long time. It's a group of friends really and we all bring a different element to it.
How was your time in Korea? Did you get to explore?
We got quite a lot of free time to go off on our own and explore Seoul and the rest of Korea. We went outside of Seoul to see the countryside and a beach town, so we鈥檝e seen a good bit of the country butthere鈥檚 so much left to see, so we really hope to get back and see more. We also made friends with the local community in Itaewon where we stayed which was really nice. My mum鈥檚 words were right - she told me the people of Korea are some of the nicest people you will ever meet.
How did you find living with a bunch of strangers away from home?
It was very easy for me to adapt to that. I was lucky enough to gain the Roger Lupton Scholarship to Sedbergh School in Cumbria for my music and acting. Then at 16 I was fortunate to gain a place at Bird Performance College in London, where in my final year I studied also at Laine for my degree. I always wanted to be in London to study because everything happens here and I really love it now.
What do your family think about the experience?
They鈥檙e super excited, my mam always wanted me to be in a boyband! She kind of predicted it when I was younger. And my nana is super excited too, they can鈥檛 wait to see the show. My mam was a dancer and model, she actually went to Korea at the same age I have and did dancing and touring, but I think it was harder to pursue for her, being from the North-East and maybe not having as much support or financial freedom to pursue it. I think she鈥檚 given me that part of her and I鈥檓 carrying on the torch for her!
How did you find the training and critiques at SM Entertainment?
It was definitely tiring and we had to work hard. What got us through was not only us as the boys coming through it together, being with each other 24/7, working together, but also the people who run SM Entertainment. The people we met and worked with in Korea are all so respectful, nice and caring. I think that really shows and it helped us get through the tough part 鈥� the hard work and the grind of training. I know you鈥檝e got to give it your all if you want to achieve your goals and that鈥檚 just what we did. I hope people enjoy our show and like our music.
Reese Carter
Age 20, from Cirencester
Reese is 20 years old and before joining the band he lived in Cirencester (Wiltshire) with his mum, dad, older brother and younger sister.
His dad is a set designer and has worked on Harry Potter and James Bond films, Star Wars, Mamma Mia, as well as Katy Perry and Robbie Williams tours to name a few. Reese was occasionally brought along to sets as a child, and this is where he developed a passion for the world of theatre and dance.
After graduating from Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts College, he began working as a performer on cruise ships which he has now left behind as he pursues his boyband dream.
In his spare time, Reese enjoys going out for dinner and going to the theatre. He describes himself as an energetic person who always tries to bring positive energy into the room, and he is quick to make close friends.
Reese has one true love in his life, and that鈥檚 his golden German Shepherd called Arlo!
Interview with Reese
Tell us about you and how you got into performing
Growing up I've been around the industry a bit, my dad is a set designer and has done lots of films and theatre, so I've grown up surrounded by it. I think my dad was secretly hoping that someone in the family would follow in his footsteps! I think being able to be backstage at film studios and watch it all happen, my dream has been to be on a stage somewhere and it being a stage that my dad has designed or built, that would be quite cute.
What made you audition?
It was really just perfect timing, I've never believed in it before, but I'd just got off performing on a cruise and was in rehearsals for another one when I saw it online and naturally, I applied. I've always thought of myself as more of a singer than a dancer. I鈥檇 just done a year on a cruise ship as a dancer, but I've always loved singing, so I thought why not? And here I am now!
When I found out I got in I was due out in LA to start working on another cruise. I heard on the Friday and was due to be flying out on the Sunday 鈥� so that wasn鈥檛 an easy phone call!
What did you know about K-pop?
I didn鈥檛 know a huge amount. I knew the genre was expanding and getting bigger in other countries. I didn鈥檛 have a full understanding until I got there, but I was definitely aware of it and how popular it is.
What鈥檚 your role in the group?
I think I'm the mischievous one! I think I'm more a singer than a dancer, and I鈥檇 like to say I bring the whole team together, even if that means I'm the one who has to get all the lads out of bed and up to rehearsal on time!
Do you all get on?
They鈥檙e all lovely. We all have our moments but it鈥檚 a brotherhood now and we can鈥檛 wait to see where it ends up.
How was your time in Korea?
I had actually in lived Korea for eight months before as part of a cruise. It was a very different experience coming back this time. I was down in Busan previously so I hadn鈥檛 actually been to Seoul. Seoul is a really big city and really business-like and it surprised me how much of Seoul runs off K-pop especially compared to being somewhere like Busan, it鈥檚 a huge part of the culture. You can go from shop to shop and see a new K-pop idol every time.
The Korean people are absolutely lovely, a lot of the people we spoke to were super modest about their English and then spoke it perfectly! I鈥檓 the fussiest eater in the band so I didn鈥檛 sample much of the food, I鈥檓 more of a beans on toast guy, but I did try some unique food which you鈥檒l see on the show!
Do you think your family influenced your career?
Growing up I was never very academic, I was full of energy and I couldn鈥檛 sit still. I think my creative side mostly came from my dad, my older brother is a football loving guy鈥檚 guy 鈥� then I came along, the middle child started dancing and singing!
What do your family think of the experience?
I think they were more than happy to have me out of the house! I think it probably makes my dad happy to see his creativity run through the family. Also, my little sister is super excited which is so sweet.
How did you find the SM Entertainment standards and critiques?
I think it was more hard work than my experiences at dance college or working as a performer. The standards and expectations are really high, and I think we all welcomed the incredible training opportunity and critiques as we felt lucky to have a team dedicated to help be the very best we can be.
Hee Jun Yoon
As the Director of the Artist Development Center, Hee Jun Yoon has accumulated extensive experience in the entertainment industry and related fields, having been with SM Entertainment since 2005.
Her role involves a comprehensive range of responsibilities, from casting talent to developing and training artists, ensuring they reach their full potential.
Over the years, Hee Jun has been instrumental in the creation and success of numerous highly acclaimed bands, including SUPER JUNIOR, Girls' Generation, SHINee, f(x), EXO, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, and NCT WISH. Her strategic planning and keen eye for talent have significantly contributed to the global popularity and success of these groups, solidifying her reputation as a key figure in the industry.
Interview with Hee Jun Yoon
What in your opinion makes the perfect pop star?
What truly defines an artist is their character. Their personal charm and drive are key factors. While talent is essential, having a magnetic presence that captures people鈥檚 attention is equally important. Plus, they need a passion for performing and a relentless drive to keep improving. Ultimately, it is the artist鈥檚 mindset and attitude that transform them into a true pop star.
What do you look for when seeking out new talent?
We look to assess their potential for growth. If they excel in singing or dancing at their current state, they will be immediately selected as a trainee. However, if they don鈥檛 show outstanding skills at the moment but see potential in them, we will offer the opportunity to train with us. Many individuals may not have yet realized their talents or had the chance to develop their skills in singing or dancing. Therefore, a keen sense of foresight is essential for the casting and training team. Apart from this, we seek individuals with strong vocal abilities or distinctive qualities, as well as those with the right mindset and attitude.
You鈥檝e achieved huge success with your artists, what is your secret?
You asked about my "secret," but it鈥檚 actually a "secret" in the literal sense, which makes it quite difficult to explain in words. First, I need to examine each trainee鈥檚 potential. I need to identify their hidden talents and draw out their strengths that can be presented to the public in the future. During this nurturing process, I instil a sense of purpose in them and help them experience a sense of achievement. Once they achieve one goal, I set a higher target and provide constructive criticism in areas that need improvement. This sense of accomplishment and pride when they reach their goal helps them realize that they are special. This mindset becomes a tremendous asset after their debut.
When forming a team with these trainees, the composition of the members is crucial. I have my own principles and know-how, but this is a secret that I cannot reveal.
Even to reach this stage it requires significant support from each staff member and the company as a whole. Thus, I want to emphasize that the success of many artists is not something I accomplish alone.
Moreover, without the artist鈥檚 own will, it is ultimately impossible to reach this level of success, so I want to send my deep appreciation to these artists who have trusted the process and worked hard to achieve their dreams at such a young age.
Why do you think K-pop has captured the imaginations of so many young music fans?
In Korean, there is this word called, '頋�(heung)鈥�, which means fun or excitement. We often use 鈥橅潵鞚� 雮滊嫟 (heung-ee nahn-dah)鈥� to express a sense of enthusiasm or liveliness. It is said that this excitement releases adrenaline or dopamine.
I believe K-pop has the power to evoke this very emotion. This might be due to its dynamic music and high-calibre choreographed performances. K-pop transcends genres, showcasing a wide variety of styles and performances in its own unique manner.
Additionally, I believe the interaction between artists and fans plays a key factor. K-pop artists actively engage with their fans, not only through their performances but also by sharing behind-the-scenes content and communicating with them regularly.
Why now take on a British band?
SME asked if I would like to take part in a new project aimed at targeting the European market. As a child, I was a big fan of Duran Duran. The idea of a young girl who loved British boy bands, growing up to work in the K-pop industry, and now having the opportunity to produce a British team is truly meaningful. Therefore, I am thrilled to be a part of this project.
Who are your personal music idols from the UK?
I grew up listening to a lot of British artists like Elton John, Wham!, and Duran Duran. In fact, listening to 'Do They Know It鈥檚 Christmas?' by Band Aid sparked my admiration for the entertainment industry. Given my particular fondness for Duran Duran, my idea of an 'ideal boy band' has likely been heavily influenced by them.
What were your first impressions of the band when you met them? Talk us through the boys in the band one-by-one...
I first met the members during the auditions in London.
Olly: He had the image of a boy next door, yet I could easily imagine him taking the role of a British prince in a film or drama. He possessed a wonderful voice, and although he wasn鈥檛 the best dancer, I saw potential in him when he tried a few dance moves on the spot.
Dexter: His kind smile was very striking. He exuded enthusiastic and bright energy, making me think he would be a great addition to the team.
Blaise: I found his deep voice quite captivating, and it was clear he had ample experience in dancing. His confidence and serious demeanour left a strong impression on me.
Reese: When I arrived at the audition venue, I noticed him standing in an alleyway outside. I hoped he was one of the auditionees. To my delight, he auditioned, and watching Reese sing and dance made me cheer inside.
James: I was already aware that he was a famous TikToker. While his singing and dancing skills were not exceptional, he had a charming presence and star quality. I admired that he chose to take on a new challenge rather than being complacent with his current position.
As TV viewers are about to meet Dear Alice for the first time, how would you describe them and introduce them?
I would boldly say they are 'a team ushering in a new chapter of British pop culture.' In my opinion, Britain has always been a powerhouse in popular culture, while K-pop is one of the most trendy pop cultures worldwide. Dear Alice represents the fusion of these two forces, creating a unique identity that sets them apart from other bands.
How do you think they complement each other?
From what I鈥檝e observed:
Olly views every situation objectively and rationally, often gathering and conveying the members' opinions to their management. He also helps mediate any issues among the members.
Dexter ensures the team maintains a positive atmosphere. His bright smile and jokes lighten the mood in any situation.
James has a delicate and sensitive side, yet he embraces his role as the eldest. The other members rely on him, recognizing the importance of the 'older brother' concept in Korean culture, which has positively influenced their relationships.
Reese excels in both singing and dancing, setting a high standard and serving as a role model for the other members.
Blaise appears to have the strongest personality but possesses a deep and warm heart. He never overlooks a member's struggles or frustrations, while offering silent support and solidarity.
These five boys, with their distinct personalities, create a unique teamwork that allows them to support and complement each other perfectly.
Viewers are about to be given a glimpse behind the scenes of a British band鈥檚 journey through the K-pop training process, what do you think people might find surprising?
I think viewers will be most surprised by the high standards and the hardworking ethos involved. SM Entertainment and its training team have spent the past 30 years developing and continually refining this system. Creating a successful team requires immense effort and passion from not just the members but also from numerous professionals in various fields.
For those unfamiliar with K-pop or from different cultural backgrounds, there will undoubtedly be many surprises, both positive and perhaps some negative. However, it's important to remember that 100 days is not enough to fully grasp the entirety of K-pop. While we couldn鈥檛 capture everything on the show, everyone, including the members, Korean staff, and British staff, put forth their utmost effort.
I hope viewers watch with an open mind and warm heart, appreciating the challenges, growth, and collective dedication of these five British boys and all those involved.
In the series we learn of your high standards and your expectation of hard work in the pursuit of perfection, what would you say to anyone who finds you rather strict?
I understand that I might come across as overly strict and harsh on the show. However, how I am perceived is not what truly matters. Our artists often mention that performing in front of me is more nerve-wracking than any major stage. My role is to help them prepare for these upcoming events. When they step out into the real world, they will face even stricter and more demanding situations. Therefore, you can think of my approach as helping them build their resilience.
We refer to our training as 'incubating'. Just as parents sometimes need to be firm to support their children's dreams, I believe in the importance of tough love. For instance, Olympic medallists and national ballet dancers endure intense training and high expectations, which allows them to be among the world's elite. Similarly, I set high standards for the trainees to help them achieve their goals.
There are times you need to withhold affection because that's what they truly need at that time.
With high ambitions there has to be a huge amount of focus and hard work to achieve the goal but was there time for laughter too and can you share any funny moments from filming?
Since MIK was not a scripted show, I deliberately avoided being too relaxed with the members. I wanted to be perceived as a 'reliable person' rather than just 鈥榓pproachable鈥�, so I refrained from making jokes or playing around.
However, there were times when I had serious heartfelt conversations with the members about their concerns. I also treated them to dinner at a Korean restaurant, but these personal moments were not captured on film.
Were Dear Alice good students?
Yes, they were. Despite the clear cultural differences, the members made a genuine effort to understand and embrace our teaching methods with an open mind. I believe this openness significantly contributed to their growth and development within the short span of 100 days.
Personally I think that Western education, including that in the UK, often emphasizes building confidence, while Korean culture focuses more on teaching humility. In Korea, the focus is often on recognising shortcomings and encouraging hard work rather than showcasing strengths. There is a strong belief that one should not become arrogant even if they excel at something. This approach likely made the process more challenging for the members, as they received more constructive criticism than praise.
However, I believe that overcoming such challenges fosters inner strength and confidence follows naturally. I am certain that the members have grown through our methods, and I am proud of their progress.
What do you think were their greatest challenges? [It may be different for each band member...]
Technical skills like singing and dancing were common challenges for all the members, so I won鈥檛 dwell on those.
Blaise: His assignment was to find harmony within the team. Sometimes his intense way of expressing thoughts and emotions led to misunderstandings. He needed to adjust this approach to better align with his intentions.
James: Adapting to group life was his biggest challenge. He needed personal time, but in a group setting, it wasn鈥檛 always possible for everyone to match his pace. Overcoming this was crucial for him.
Olly: He often received feedback about being too rigid both physically and mentally. While his integrity and straightforwardness are commendable, he needed to be more adaptable and free-spirited as a performer.
Dexter: His pure-hearted nature made him prone to excitement and difficulty in self-control. This made him more susceptible to mistakes on stage, so managing his emotions was essential.
Reese: Building confidence and managing impatience were key challenges. Despite his considerable talent, Reese struggled with self-doubt, often performing with his gaze at the floor instead of engaging fully. He also tended to get frustrated and self-critical when results didn鈥檛 come quickly enough.
You鈥檒l see how each member overcomes these challenges and grows throughout the series.
What do you think is the most important lesson they should take with them as they embark on their career?
I鈥檝e given this question a lot of thought, and I鈥檇 like to share a piece of advice that I always give to SME artists. It鈥檚 simply: 鈥滌爼鞁犾皑霠�!鈥� which translates to 鈥淪tay sharp!鈥�. I hope the English translation captures the nuance of the Korean phrase.
When they debut, they will transition from being ordinary young people to living in a completely different world overnight. They will constantly be in front of cameras, and their lives might be exposed to the public even in unwanted moments.
They will face unexpected stress, encounter flattery, and be tempted by various distractions. Over time, they might struggle to distinguish right from wrong. While they will gain much, they will also lose much. I hope they will remember to "stay sharp" and keep my words in mind during these times.
The five boys are now setting sail into a vast sea. I believe their journey will lead to a brilliant future, but they should also be prepared for dark, turbulent waters and storms along the way.
Our staff, including myself, will always be here, like a lighthouse, guiding them with a bright light to help them find their way.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to anyone wanting to make it as a pop star?
It might sound unusual, but my honest advice is: "It鈥檚 okay if you don鈥檛 become a pop star."
I take pride in my ability to identify potential pop stars, but I also recognise when someone might not make it. Not everyone who practices will debut, and not everyone who debuts will become a successful pop star. You are valuable and can lead a fulfilling life even if you don鈥檛 become a pop star.
That said, if you genuinely have a deep passion for it, go ahead and give it a try. Just be prepared for the challenges that come with it.