Why K-pop vocal coaches behind EXO, aespa are betting on virtual idols in Japan
It’s hard to say exactly how many K-pop artists have trained under Jang Jin-young and Kim Seong-pil, two of the industry’s most prominent vocal directors, or received their guidance in the recording studio. Jang has trained numerous SM Entertainment acts, including EXO, Red Velvet, SHINee, NCT, aespa, RIIZE and Hearts2Hearts. Kim currently works primarily with artists at The Black Label, while…
Two of K-pop's most respected vocal coaches, Jang Jin-young and Kim Seong-pil, are venturing into uncharted territory by creating a virtual idol group for the Japanese market. Jang has mentored a host of SM Entertainment acts, including EXO, Red Velvet, SHINee and aespa. Kim, on the other hand, focuses on Japan-based artists at The Black Label and LDH-affiliated XG.
For the past two decades, the vocal directors have honed the voices of countless starlets. They co-founded A-TOP Company in 2013 and later A-TOP Universe to cultivate their own acts. Their debut venture is a "2.5D" virtual idol comprising five members, blending Japanese subculture with K-pop's production system.
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