YG Seeks a “Second BLACKPINK”… Stages a Massive Global Audition in Two Years

YG Entertainment Holds Its First Major Audition in Two Years… Discovers a “Second BLACKPINK”

Relay auditions across more than 10 countries including the U.S., China, and Japan through December, targeting applicants born 2008–2015

“YG Entertainment” is moving to find the next crop of artists who will shake up the global music market. As a large-scale project aimed at creating a “second BLACKPINK,” the company has set up a high-stakes, once-in-two-years showdown on stages worldwide.

A Relay Audition Spanning Continents Will Write a New Chapter in K-Pop

On the 22nd, “YG Entertainment” officially announced that it will hold “2026 YG Global Audition” through December. Beyond simply discovering new talent, the company’s strong commitment is apparent: to find overwhelming ability that will carry forward “K-pop”’s global dominance.

The auditions stand out for their sheer scale as well. The first round opened on the 19th in Beijing, China, and it sweeps through major Chinese hubs such as Chengdu (July 25), Shanghai (August 1), and Shenzhen (August 9). Heat then continues in Japan, with Tokyo (August 9) and Osaka (September 20). From October through the year-end, the lineup expands across North America and Oceania, as well as all over Asia, including the United States, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Eligibility fully breaks down barriers of nationality and gender. Anyone born between 2008 and 2015 can throw their name in the hat. Of particular note is the widening of the evaluation categories. In addition to traditional idol hallmarks—vocals, rap, dance, and visuals—the company has included assessing artistic talents in multiple areas, such as acting and special skills, starting with this season. The approach is seen as a strategic move to discover fully formed entertainers suited to the multi-platform era.

From BIGBANG, 2NE1, BLACKPINK, and TREASURE to BABYMONSTER, which has recently emerged as a global rookie. With “YG Entertainment”, which has presented a “K-pop” paradigm with every generation, observers around the world are watching closely to see what new gems it will carve out through this audition.