EXO's Kai Unveils Intriguing Insights on SM Trainee Culture

In a recent episode of the YouTube series 'Jeongwaja,' hosted by EXO's Kai and featuring WayV's Ten, the duo explored the cultural dynamics among trainees at SM Entertainment, providing unique insights into their experiences. The episode, filmed at the Seoul National University Insect Club, is part of a three-part summer series, offering a blend of humor and nostalgia from their formative years.

During their interaction, Kai and Ten showcased their contrasting personalities, particularly through a light-hearted prank where Kai presented Ten with a fake crocodile, to which Ten responded with indifference, noting its commonality in jokes. Their visit included engaging with various insects, where Ten displayed his knowledge of contemporary pet trends, highlighting the increasing popularity of Madagascar cockroaches. Conversely, Kai's discomfort with arachnids was evident when he encountered tarantulas, leading to comedic moments as he struggled with edible crickets, humorously admitting, "The cricket’s leg got stuck in my teeth."

A significant revelation from Kai involved a longstanding tradition among SM trainees regarding house centipedes that inhabited their basement practice room. According to Kai, there was a belief that catching these insects could bring bad luck or financial misfortune, stating, "If you catch them, money would run away from us," as echoed by Ten. This anecdote not only reflects the unique superstitions prevalent within the trainee culture at SM Entertainment but also underscores the camaraderie and shared experiences among trainees navigating their rigorous training environment.

This episode is available for viewing on the ootb STUDIO YouTube channel and contributes to the ongoing discourse about the pressures and peculiarities faced by K-pop idols during their formative years in the industry. With the insights shared by Kai and Ten, fans gain a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances and challenges that characterize the life of SM trainees, shedding light on the often unseen aspects of their journey towards stardom. As the K-pop industry continues to evolve, stories like these highlight the importance of addressing the mental and emotional well-being of idols and trainees, fostering an environment where openness and understanding thrive.