RIIZE‘s Wonbin, the visual heartthrob of the rising K-Pop group, has a casting story that’s as unique as he is. SM Entertainment recently revealed the intriguing tale of how they discovered and recruited Wonbin, and it’s a story that speaks volumes about his undeniable star potential.
A Visual Revelation
Wonbin’s exceptional visuals were the initial spark that ignited SM Entertainment’s interest. During the special program ‘K-POP The Beginning: SMTOWN 30‘, the Artist Development Center director shared the captivating details of Wonbin’s casting. The director explained how they stumbled upon a video of Wonbin and were immediately struck by his potential.
A Race Against Time (and Other Agencies)
Recognizing Wonbin’s star quality, SM Entertainment knew they had to act fast. The director revealed,
“We found out he was living in Ulsan. Typically, trainees come to the company on their own, but we were worried other agencies might scout him the moment he arrived in Seoul. So, we sent staff to personally escort him from Seoul Station, which is something we almost never do.”
This unprecedented move highlights just how highly SM regarded Wonbin’s potential, showcasing their proactive approach to securing his talent.
SMTOWN 30: A Celebration of SM’s Legacy
The ‘K-POP The Beginning: SMTOWN 30’ program, hosted by BoA and SHINee’s Key, commemorated SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary. The show offered a nostalgic journey through the company’s history, featuring performances, archive footage, and interviews with prominent artists and industry figures. Segments dedicated to major SM artists like SHINee, EXO, Red Velvet, NCT, and aespa showcased the evolution of SM’s distinct music and creative vision.
A Special Anniversary Album
Adding to the anniversary celebrations, SM Entertainment announced the release of a 17-track album, including a new group song titled ‘Thank You’. This special album will be available on various music platforms on February 14th, marking the official anniversary of the company’s founding. It’s a fitting tribute to SM’s rich history and a gift to fans who have been part of their journey.
What do you think of Woobin’s casting story? Let us know in the comment section below!
