A New Beginning at SM Entertainment
JJ, the former BigHit Music trainee, has embarked on an exciting new chapter with SM Entertainment’s SMTR25. The Japanese-American performer’s recent showcase at SMTOWN Live 2025 marked a significant milestone, demonstrating his enhanced skills and growth as an artist. His remarkable transition from Trainee A to SMTR25 has not only captured widespread attention in the K-pop community but also sparked discussions about the evolving landscape of K-pop training systems.
The talented performer’s journey in the K-pop industry began with BigHit Music’s ambitious pre-debut project Trainee A in March 2021. During this formative period, JJ actively participated in various activities that helped shape his artistic identity. From creating engaging social media content to delivering powerful street performances in Los Angeles, he demonstrated his versatility and dedication to his craft. The project’s unexpected conclusion in December 2022 left many fans anxious about his future, but it proved to be just the beginning of an even more exciting chapter.
From BigHit to SM: A Transformative Journey
While his former Trainee A colleagues found their respective paths in the industry – with Jihoon successfully debuting in TWS and Yorch making his mark in POW – JJ’s future remained shrouded in mystery. The uncertainty surrounding his career direction finally cleared when he made his surprising appearance at SMTOWN in Seoul on January 11, 2025. As a member of SMTR25, SM Entertainment’s ambitious 25-member male trainee group, JJ has demonstrated remarkable growth in his performance abilities and stage presence.
His participation in SMTR25’s cover performances, particularly their rendition of SHINee’s iconic hit “Lucifer,” left a lasting impression on both fans and industry observers. The performance showcased his improved vocal control, enhanced dance precision, and magnetic stage presence. Industry experts noted that his time at SM Entertainment has contributed significantly to his artistic development, with many praising the company’s renowned training system for further polishing his natural talents.
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SMTR25: A New Chapter Begins
JJ’s integration into SMTR25 represents more than just a company change – it symbolizes a fresh start in his K-pop journey and highlights the fluid nature of the industry’s training system. The group’s recent performance at SMTOWN Live 2025 served as a powerful platform to showcase the collective talent of SM Entertainment’s next generation of artists. With JJ’s previous experience from Trainee A and his evident growth under SM’s guidance, he has positioned himself as a promising member of this ambitious project.
The transition has also sparked discussions about the different training approaches of major K-pop companies. While BigHit Music is known for its focus on artist authenticity and self-production, SM Entertainment has built its reputation on precise choreography and powerful vocal performances. JJ’s ability to adapt and excel in both environments demonstrates his versatility as a performer and his potential for future success.
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Final Thoughts: JJ’s Rising Star at SM Entertainment
The transition from BigHit’s Trainee A to SM Entertainment’s SMTR25 marks a significant milestone in JJ’s career, showcasing the dynamic nature of the K-pop industry. His impressive performance at SMTOWN Live 2025 suggests a bright future ahead, with many industry observers predicting his eventual debut as a standout performer.
What are your thoughts on JJ’s new journey with SM Entertainment? Share your comments below!
