As the K-pop industry monumentally grows, the average debuting age of K-pop idols are gradually decreasing over the years.
Idols often begin training at a much younger age in recent years. There are many benefits to debuting at such a young age, such as the ability to have a long lasting career. However, debuting at a young age can also sometimes cause idols to be unable to perform at certain locations due to age restrictions.
A recent example of this unfortunate situation was when Somi of I.O.I was unable to perform in France. Here are nine popular K-pop idols who debuted at the young age of only 16!
IU from Loen Entertainment debuted in 2009 with “Lost Child” when she was only 16 years old! / Image Source: Dispatch and LOEN Entertainment
Taemin from SHINee debuted in 2008 with “Replay” at the age of 16! / Image Source: Dispatch and SM Entertainment
Krystal from f(x) debuted in 2009 with “”LA chA TA” at 16. / Image Source: Dispatch and SM Entertainment
Minhwan from FT Island debuted in 2007 with “Love Sick” when he was only 16! / Image Source: Dispatch and FNC Entertainment
Somi from I.O.I debuted in 2016 with “Dream Girls” at the young age of 16 / Image Source: Dispatch, Mnet, YMC Entertainment
Zelo from B.A.P debuted in 2012 with “Warrior” in 2012! / Image Source: Dispatch and TS Entertainment
Hayoung from Apink debuted in 2011 with “Mallayo (I Don’t Know)” at 16! / Image Source: Dispatch and Plan A Entertainment
Ricky and Changjo from Teen Top debuted with “Clap” in 2010 when they were only 16! / Image Source: Dispatch
Chenle and Jisung from the NCT unit NCT dream debuted this year with “Chewing Gum.” Chenle was 16 and Jisung was only 15! / Image Source: Dispatch
Were you surprised by how young these idols were when they debuted?
