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 renowned vocal coaches, Jang Jin-young and Kim Seong-pil, are venturing into uncharted territory by creating a virtual idol group for the Japanese market. This innovative move has both coaches betting on the potential of virtual idols in Japan.
Jang, a seasoned vocal director, has worked with numerous SM Entertainment artists, including EXO, Red Velvet, SHINee, NCT, aespa, RIIZE, and Hearts2Hearts. Currently, he focuses on coaching artists at The Black Label, as well as Japan-based acts such as XG and LDH-affiliated artists.
Kim Seong-pil, on the other hand, primarily coaches artists at The Black Label, while also guiding XG and LDH-affiliated artists. Together, the duo has spent years refining the vocal abilities of countless stars, shaping their voices into polished recordings.
In 2013, Jang and Kim founded A-TOP Company, which has since partnered with entertainment agencies in Korea and overseas. Drawing upon their extensive vocal training experience, they later established A-TOP Universe to develop and produce their own artists.
The pair's first project is a groundbreaking "2.5D" virtual act that seamlessly blends Japanese subculture with the K-pop production system. This ambitious endeavor marks their entry into the world of virtual idols, specifically targeting the Japanese market.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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