Yoon Hee Jun, head of SM Entertainment’s Artist Development Center, shared insights into the world of SM idols on the March 4 episode of tvN’s 'You Quiz on the Block.'
Having shaped countless SM artists over 22 years, Yoon is considered a pivotal figure every SM trainee must encounter. She described her role, saying, “My work is about developing new artists. I cast and scout trainees through auditions, guide their training, and ultimately determine the debut lineup.”
Known for her preference for black attire, Yoon explained, “Being intimidating is necessary. Trainees need to perform under pressure and stay composed on stage, no matter the situation. It’s like a high-pressure interview.”
Kai and Wonbin also joined the show through a video recording to talk about director Yoon in their perspective. Kai recalled, “We were evaluated every Sunday. The director would cross her legs and say, ‘Focus. Do you really think that’s the correct pitch?’She spoke blatantly.” He added humorously, “When she watches practice, her shadow reflects on the glass doors. We even set up a lookout for her.” RIIZE’s Wonbin remembered, “She wore black, and it felt like black smoke was coming from her body. If the trainee before you messed up, you’d get scolded badly. I’d just hope it wasn’t me next.”
Yoon, who joined SM in 2005, shared that he initially worked in the casting department and her first cast member was Chanyeol. She added that modern casting often uses social media: “With social media, you see a lot more people. I cast RIIZE’s Wonbin through a DM. I told my staff, ‘Go get him directly, no matter what,’ since anyone could spot him in Seoul.”
Recalling the moment, Wonbin said, “After school, I got a DM and felt drawn to it. As soon as I arrived at Seoul Station, they put a mask on me and covered my uniform badge. It was scary and overwhelming.” Yoon clarified a common misconception, saying, “Some think SM chooses trainees just by looks. That’s absolutely not true. There are even people who didn’t apply because of that rumor.”
Regarding what she looks for in trainees, Yoon said, “I focus on potential and perseverance,” highlighting the determination of Kai, Doyoung, and Wonbin. She explained, “Kai was tough on the staff. He wouldn’t go home and would stay in the practice room doing the same routines repeatedly. Doyoung just came back from his first military leave and came straight to the company to practice singing, after not singing for 50 days.”
About Wonbin, Yoon said, “He had never properly trained in singing or dancing before I cast him through a photo. Yet, he improved at an incredible pace. In early videos, he watched the seniors from the corner, then suddenly moved forward like teleporting. Eventually, he became a full-fledged dancer in the center.”
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