It’s not easy to survive in the entertainment industry, let alone thrive in this dog-eat-dog world. Yet, SM Entertainment has successfully done so for the past 30 years. As a celebration of its 30 years of success, SM Entertainment recently held SMTOWN Live 2025, where they celebrated its success and promised a bright future with a powerful lineup of male trainees. Among them, these 4 trainees have gained massive attention.
So, who are these rising stars? Are they your favorites, too? Let’s discuss the top 4 SM Entertainment male trainees (SMTR25) gaining the most attention at SMTOWN Live 2025.
Top 4 SM Entertainment Male Trainees (SMTR25) Gaining Most Attention at 2025 SMTOWN Live
Now, brace yourself for the most promising hot new talents from SM Entertainment! These 4 male trainees from SMRT25 will soon captivate you with their stunning visuals and powerful performance.
1. Chio – Your Next SM Entertainment’s Gilded Prodigy
First of all, we have Chio (Nicholas Lee), who might just be your next SM gilded prodigy for his impressive talents.
Born in California with Korean-American nationality, Chio first caught everyone’s eye when he performed SHINee’s “Lucifer” and EXO’s “Growl” with the other SM Entertainment male trainees during SMTOWN Live 2025 in Seoul. He immediately garnered massive attention for his poised stage presence and sharp dance moves.
Not only that but what also shocked fans was the fact that Chio has an unexpected family background. According to various online posts, Chio is reportedly the nephew of the first female executive director of the Shinsegae Department Store.
Despite the attention on his privileged upbringing, Chio seems determined to succeed on his own merits. With his regal aura and dedicated mindset, he might just be your next-generation prodigy among all the SM Entertainment male trainees.
2. Tata – Our SM’s Thai Prince
Secondly, we have Tata Jiranchai Sereeviriyakun, who might soon become our beloved SM Thai Prince.
Born on April 1, 2008, Tata is just 16 years old but has already impressed fans with his vibrant stage presence. He’s believed to be a former GMM Music trainee under Thailand’s largest media conglomerate, GMM Grammy.
Although most of Tata’s social media accounts have been wiped clean, fans were able to piece together glimpses of his past. He delivered a confident performance with all the other SMTR25, SM Entertainment trainees at SMTOWN Live 2025, showcasing both charisma and powerful dance skills. With his bright smile and youthful energy, he has already garnered a solid fan.
ใครไหวไปก่อนเลย😭#SMTOWN2025 #SMTOWN_LIVE_2025 #SMTR25 #타타 #TATA
— hyo ft.ใจเกเร (@praewtinthintar) January 12, 2025
(c.qing ) pic.twitter.com/RxLl5sewLH
It seems like only a matter of time before this Thai Prince fully blossoms into a global star.
4. Songha – Your Visual Fatale
Now, if you prefer someone with more enigmatic charm, Songha will definitely charm you with his iconic SM-style visual fatale!
Rumored to be born in 2004, Songha stole the show with his sharp gaze and alluring visuals. With just one look and fans immediately praised his slightly uneven eyes, calling it an endearing and charismatic trait.
Many also said he reminded them of multiple idols and actors—some spotted traces of Im Si Wan, others Nam Woohyun or even MONSTA X’s Minhyuk. Not only that, but they also believed that he has some features similar to Kim Jaejoong, the OG visual essence of SM Entertainment.
Fans agree he’s a classic SM-style visual but with a unique twist that keeps everyone talking. With this visual fatale, Songha’s mystique and striking features will surely pull you in.
so…based on rumor his name is SONGHA
— 𝐍𝐢𝐜🫧 (@itsnicholla) January 13, 2025
(et’s hope he’ll be part of smnbg line up) #SMTR25 #SMTR2025 #SMTOWNLIVE2025 https://t.co/ZxYND2WcYC pic.twitter.com/GKWWLxb4w9
4. JJ – A Familiar Face Reborn
Last but not least, do you remember JJ?
Yes, he was this Japanese-American trainee who gained massive attention during his appearance in BigHit Music’s Trainee A project. After Trainee A’s social media channels went silent in late 2022, you might wonder what happened to all the members.
Today, we can finally rest assured because JJ has apparently found another brighter path as an idol. Performing with SM Entertainment male trainees at SMTOWN Live 2025, JJ showcased even sharper visuals and improved stage presence.
And so, with his resilience and global appeal, JJ has become the most powerful and promising talent among SMTR25 SM Entertainment male trainees performing at SMTOWN Live 2025. Not only that, but by experiencing the intense training systems of different companies, JJ now appears more determined than ever to debut on the biggest stage.
SMTR25 at SMTOWN Live 2025: Which SM Entertainment Male Trainees Are Your Favorite?
Finally, by showcasing these promising SMTR25 male trainees, SM Entertainment reminds us once again how the company remains at the top: an unyielding pursuit of excellence, an eye for star quality, and the promise of the next generation of Kpop superstars. And among all the other trainees, these 4 names have proven that the future of Kpop looks brighter than ever.
So, are these SM Entertainment male trainees your favorites, too? Please share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for their official debut.
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