Casting director Noh Min-mi recently shared the behind-the-scenes story of how she discovered and signed BTS’s Jungkook without an audition.
On August 22, YouTube channel Kajufriends released an interview with Noh Min-mi, who recalled her role in recruiting Jungkook and other BTS members during her time at Big Hit Entertainment.
Explaining her position, Noh described a casting director’s role as “finding raw gems and turning them into diamonds.” She oversaw both scouting and training, which included managing visuals, skills, and character.
When asked about BTS, she revealed that her first major involvement began with Suga, whose smile and talent stood out to her. However, Jungkook was the very first trainee she personally cast.
Noh remembered seeing him during his appearance on Superstar K:
“There were so many casting directors at the scene. One boy caught my eye. His eyes were bright, he looked adorable, and it felt like he was glowing. I was drawn to him as if by fate.”
She recalled handing him her card immediately. Unlike typical procedures where trainees went through auditions, she was determined not to lose Jungkook. After consulting Big Hit, she quickly contacted his father and proposed a direct contract.
“Usually, companies set an audition date. But I told his father, ‘Let’s sign right away—he has potential.’ Other agencies were chasing him, some even waiting at Seoul Station, but in the end his father chose Big Hit,” she said.
Reflecting on the decision, Noh described it as destiny: “It was almost like being under a spell. I couldn’t let him go. Signing Jungkook without an audition still feels surreal.”
She also spoke about BTS’s remarkable rise. “Back then, no one was paying attention to them, but I believed they would succeed. They practiced until their shoes wore out. That’s why I was certain they’d make it.”
Today, as BTS continues to shine on the global stage, Noh expressed pride and affection: “Even when I meet them now, they’re still like the same kids from the trainee days. Despite being world stars, when we talk and laugh, I sometimes forget how famous they really are.”
This candid story has touched fans, reinforcing the idea that Jungkook’s journey to stardom was not just talent and hard work, but also a stroke of fate.