10+ K-Pop Idols Who Switched Companies When They Were Trainees

K-Pop trainees may switch companies for various reasons, some due to musical directions, while others might just be let go. This isn’t always a bad thing, as it can lead to trainees finding companies that are a better fit for them. Here are 10+ K-Pop idols who switched companies when they were trainees.

1. Hoya

Hoya was originally a trainee at JYP Entertainment. Hoya eventually ended up in Woollim Entertainment, which is where he made his debut in INFINITE.

2. Daehwi & Woojin (AB6IX)

Daehwi and Woojin were both originally trainees at JYP Entertainment, where they trained with a lot of the current JYP artists, such as Stray Kids. They both eventually ended up going to Brand New Music, which is where they made their debuts in AB6IX. The two were still under Brand New Music when they debuted in WANNA ONE as well.

3. G-Dragon (BIGBANG)

G-Dragon was originally a trainee at SM Entertainment. He ended up leaving for YG Entertainment once he got more interested in rapping.

4. Eunha & SinB (GFRIEND)

Eunha and SinB were originally trainees at Big Hit Entertainment. The company eventually cut ties with their female trainees, so they had to find another company. They both eventually signed with Source Music, which is where they debuted as members of GFRIEND.

5. Peniel (BTOB)

Peniel was originally a trainee as JYP Entertainment. He eventually became a trainee at Cube Entertainment, which is where he debuted as a member of BTOB.

6. Soyou

Soyou was originally a trainee at Cube Entertainment, where she was originally supposed to debut as a member of 4Minute. This didn’t end up working out, and Soyou eventually left the company. She eventually ended up in Starship Entertainment, which is where she debuted as a member of Sistar.

7. CL

CL was originally a trainee at JYP Entertainment, where she even trained with a lot of the 2AM members. She eventually left for YG Entertainment, which is where she made her debut as a member of 2NE1.

8. Doojoon (HIGHLIGHT)

Doojoon was originally a trainee at JYP Entertainment. He eventually moved to Cube Entertainment, which is where he made his debut as a member of BEAST.

9. Park Jihoon

Jihoon was originally a trainee at SM Entertainment, as well as Fantagio. He later transferred to Maroo Entertainment, which is the company he was still under when he debuted as a member of WANNA ONE, as well as where he made his solo debut.

10. Shownu (MONSTA X)

Shownu was originally a trainee at JYP Entertainment but was later let go by the company. He eventually signed with Starship Entertainment, which is where he made his debut as a member of MONSTA X.