Dozens of talented singers, dancers, and performers gathered in Los Angeles earlier this month to audition for GALAXY CORPORATION’s new virtual K-pop group!
AI Enter-tech company GALAXY CORPORATION held their 2025 global virtual idol audition at the historic El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday, September 8. After launching a global talent search online, over 100 vocalists, rappers, and dancers advanced to this second round of auditions. Several hopefuls from the United States were invited to participate in the in-person audition, as well as individuals from South Korea, Germany, and other countries across the globe. While contestants varied in age, nationality, and gender, they all shared a common dream of being able to debut in GALAXY’s forthcoming virtual K-Pop group.
GALAXY strives to be at the forefront of innovation, as they place a great emphasis on virtual content and AI-driven storytelling to help build new experiences for fans. The company serves as the current home of K-pop icon G-DRAGON, and is looking to expand their legacy with a new generation of talent.
The in-person audition process provided a one-of-a-kind experience for participants, which was very fitting for a company like GALAXY. As participants were escorted inside the theater, they were shielded by umbrellas in order to keep their true identities confidential. Once on stage, each participant was assigned an avatar that would become their identity for the audition. Special software captured the movements of the participant to display on the avatar. If a participant waved their left arm in the air while singing, their avatar would do the same in real-time.
A giant screen separated the participants on stage and the selection committee in the audience, showcasing the participant’s performance to GALAXY representatives via their avatar. Since there was only one avatar option for females and one option for males, the representatives were able to judge each contestant solely on their raw talent.
GK (Gyuhyuk Song), the Senior Lead of IP MUSIC at GALAXY CORPORATION, was present at the auditions, carefully analyzing each performance to scout a new rising star. GK started his career in 2013 at SM Entertainment, where he managed artists such as Super Junior, EXO, and NCT. He also oversaw projects such as KAI of EXO’s first solo album, releases from Red Velvet, and solo releases from TVXQ! Members. GK realizes that the K-pop industry is rapidly evolving, and questions revolving around the longevity of an act can often arise among critics and fans alike. Most groups adhere to a seven-year contract period, however, many groups do not remain together after this time period concludes.
The solution to this issue can be virtual artists, according to GK. He stated, “Through future IP projects, I aim to create ‘eternal artists’ who can transcend the limitations of time, offering lasting inspiration not only to K-pop fandoms but to music lovers around the world. At Galaxy Corporation, I look forward to bringing this vision to life and invite continued attention and support for what’s to come.”
Finalists from the audition in Los Angeles will advance to be part of GALAXY’s debut campaign, which will help usher in a new chapter in the K-pop industry and entertainment industry worldwide.
Article Featured Image Credit: Virath Pum