SM Entertainment, a leading K-pop agency, has been a significant player in the industry, particularly known for its rigorous idol training system attracting talent from across Asia. While few Chinese trainees make it to debut, several have returned home to thrive in music and acting.
Here are five notable Chinese actors and actresses who were once part of SM’s idol training system:
HOU MINGHAO
Known as Neo Hou, he gained fame in C-dramas like ‘I Am Nobody’ and ‘Fangs of Fortune’. Hou trained with SM from 2012 to 2014 before debuting with Fresh Teenager Geek and transitioning into acting.
LI HONGYI
After a brief three-month training period at SM, Li Hongyi returned to China for his education. He has since built a successful acting career, starring in hits like ‘The Blood of Youth’ and ‘Love Better Than Immortality’.
XING ZHAO LIN
Previously a trainee with SM, Xing Zhao Lin is known for his lead role in ‘The Eternal Love series’. He left the agency to focus on a career in China and has become popular for his romantic roles.
XU YIYANG
A former member of SM Rookies, Xu Yiyang trained with the agency from 2016 to 2018. Married to ex-EXO member Huang Zitao, she debuted in the girl group Legal High and has appeared in various dramas.
ZHOU YANCHEN
After training with SM, Zhou Yanchen left to focus on his studies. He later joined the boy group Mr.BIO and has transitioned to acting, gaining recognition for his roles in various dramas.
Notably, Bai Lu, a prominent figure in the Chinese entertainment scene, also has ties to SM Entertainment. Although not an official trainee, she participated in an overseas audition in 2012 and later showcased her vocal talents through multiple OSTs.
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