What to know
- YG Entertainment, the agency behind BLACKPINK and BIGBANG, is bringing its 2026 global auditions to Toronto and Vancouver.
- Vancouver auditions will take place Nov. 11, while Toronto auditions are scheduled for Nov. 14.
- Applicants born between 2008 and 2015 can audition in vocal, rap or dance categories.
- Participants must bring valid photo ID and prepare a one-minute audition.
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a K-pop idol? That dream could become a reality, as YG Entertainment is bringing its global auditions to Toronto and Vancouver this month.
The powerhouse company behind K-pop acts including BLACKPINK, 2NE1 and BIGBANG has announced that it will hold global auditions and casting events in both Canadian cities.
In Toronto, auditions are scheduled for Nov. 14 at KCCA Toronto, located at 1133 Leslie St. in North York.
Meanwhile, in Vancouver, auditions will take place days earlier on Nov. 11 at Element by Marriott Vancouver Metrotown, located at 5988 Willingdon Ave. in Burnaby.
In-person registration will be available at both locations from 1 to 4 p.m. local time.
Who can audition?
According to YG Entertainment, auditions are open to applicants born between 2008 and 2015, regardless of ethnicity or gender.
Those auditioning must bring valid photo identification showing their date of birth, such as a driver’s licence or passport.
Applicants can only audition once across the entire 2026 YG Global Audition schedule.
Participants are asked to prepare a one-minute audition in one of three categories: vocal, rap or dance.
Those auditioning in the dance category must have a YouTube URL for their chosen dance track ready in advance and enter it on the application form on the day of the audition.
What happens after the audition?
YG Entertainment has long been considered one of the major players in the K-pop industry, alongside companies such as HYBE, SM Entertainment and JYP Entertainment.
It’s been two years since YG last held auditions in Toronto, giving aspiring K-pop trainees another opportunity to catch the company’s attention.
K-pop trainees typically spend several years training in singing, dancing and performance before undergoing regular evaluations and potentially earning the opportunity to debut, often as part of a group.
YG’s most recent group debut came in 2023 with the launch of its seven-member girl group BABYMONSTER.
The company has also announced plans to debut a new four-member girl group, although a debut date has yet to be revealed. So far, three members have been introduced.
