BTS’s Performance Director Enraged At The Way Trainees Are Practicing

He wants them to take a deeper look.

Son Sung Deuk, more widely known as BTS’s performance director, gained attention for his statement on Netflix’s documentary series Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE.

| HYBE x Geffen Records

On the show, experts from Korea and the U.S. evaluated the 20 candidates based on dance, vocals, visual performance, star quality, and attitude.

| Netflix

During the trainee’s last monthly evaluation, Son left the members with some harsh words.

“You guys seem to have many problems. Interpreting the song is important, and it’s also important to study why artists make certain moves on stage.

Do not copy what you see on the surface, but look more deeply. I got angry earlier because I couldn’t feel those things from you guys. I hope you guys can gain control of your mind and heart while practicing.”

— Son Sung Deuk

| Netflix

Missy Paramo, HYBE’s U.S. T&D senior program manager, explained further in an interview with the documentary team.

Son was angry. He felt that the kids were more focused on being cute and showing off charm rather than technique and quality. He felt that attitude was rude, considering K-Pop is his career and something he’s poured his heart into.

— Missy Paramo

| @katseyeworld/X

Son believes that performance adds power to the artists’s narrative and music is what unites fans around the world.

| Netflix

Son’s message aligns with Chairman Bang Si Hyuk’s statement from The Debut: Dream Academy press conference last year.

KATSEYE will work hard to show their best. They have grown according to the K-Pop manual, so they will not forget their respect for K-Pop.

— Bang Si Hyuk

Have you watched the series yet?