Asahi’s Rise: From Unknown to K-Pop Star
When you think of TREASURE, it’s hard not to picture the Japanese member, Asahi. His blend of a straightforward demeanor, caring nature, and stunning looks have made him a fan favorite, and his talents as a songwriter only add to his appeal.
Reflecting on how he caught the industry’s eye, Suk Eun Jae, the casting leader at Asahi’s company, shared her insights during an interview with WINNER‘s HOONY. According to her, Asahi stood out during the audition process, showcasing a memorable personality that intrigued her right from the start.
“To be brief, it’s the job of selecting new trainees.”
— Suk Eun Jae
Suk Eun Jae’s expertise lies in identifying potential K-Pop stars, especially focusing on the Japanese market. She proudly mentioned her pivotal role in assembling TREASURE and another group, BABYMONSTER.
“I’m mostly in charge of the Japanese market. TREASURE and BABYMONSTER are groups that I selected.”
— Suk Eun Jae
Present during Asahi’s audition, Suk Eun Jae admitted that he piqued her interest immediately. She described him as “quite unique” and even recalled it as one of her standout experiences in talent scouting.
“Asahi’s application video was quite unique. He sang while looking at the sky, like in a trance.”
— Suk Eun Jae
There were initial concerns about Asahi’s suitability for the idol life due to his unusual audition style. As Suk Eun Jae noted, the team was hesitant, wondering if he could adapt to the rigorous training required.
“We wondered if we could train him. We were a bit reluctant.”
— Suk Eun Jae
However, their apprehensions faded when they saw him in person. The striking visuals and charisma he exuded helped secure his spot in the next round of auditions, which left everyone confident in his potential.
“Then we saw him in person and he was alright.”
— Suk Eun Jae
Asahi later explained his decision to gaze upward during his audition, admitting he had no knowledge of conventional audition protocols. HOONY resurfaced this moment, commenting on how Asahi’s unique approach made him appear innocent.
As TREASURE continues to rise in the K-Pop scene, it’s clear that Asahi’s unique charm and raw talent have made him an integral part of the group’s identity, leaving fans eager to witness what he’ll achieve next.
