“This kind of program is something entirely new.”

Singer Lee Seung-chul is bringing together four decades of experience in the music industry. A new growth-based music project, built from a musician’s perspective, has officially been introduced. He personally took part not only in planning but also in production.

Age, personal stories, and backgrounds are all kept blind. Participants are selected solely based on their talent, and the program focuses on nurturing their growth. Lee Seung-chul revealed, “I began planning this project two years ago because I wanted to create a system tailored to each raw gem and turn them into true jewels.”

‘The Scout’ held its production presentation on the 29th at Cube Convention Center in Mapo-gu, Seoul. Lee Seung-chul, Kim Jaejoong, Wendy, Young K of DAY6, and Choo Sung-hoon attended the event.

A Growth-Based Music Project Designed to Discover Hidden Talent

‘The Scout’ is a growth-oriented music project that seeks to discover hidden talent yet to fully shine. Top professionals in the music industry personally identify these “raw gems” and present them with new directions and possibilities.

Training is conducted across four key areas: composition, visual, style, and physical training. Leading directors and trainers in each field provide personalized coaching tailored to each individual muse, guiding them through dramatic makeovers.

Lee Seung-chul shared the motivation behind the program, saying,

“After serving as a judge on many audition programs, I often felt unsatisfied. It was disappointing to see contestants compete based on a single mission song—where someone with strong high notes competes against someone with a uniquely appealing low register.”

“It felt unfortunate that survival or elimination was decided by just one song. As we filmed each episode, I kept thinking, ‘They did incredibly well.’ The participants are following along faithfully, and I can truly see raw gems turning into jewels.” (Lee Seung-chul)

Masters Emphasize Growth Over Elimination

Lee Seung-chul, Kim Jaejoong, Young K, and Wendy serve as masters on the show.

Kim Jaejoong commented,

“Among competition programs, this one is the most unique. In most shows, a single mistake can lead to immediate elimination. But our program is about growth—it’s a competition that teaches development.”

Wendy also highlighted the program’s distinctiveness, saying,

“This is truly different from other audition programs. It doesn’t end with giving scores and feedback after a performance. Instead, we help set direction and 고민 together. This is my first time experiencing a process like this, and I believe it’s a truly meaningful program.”

Young K added,

“I enjoy sharing the know-how I’ve learned. Rather than selecting and eliminating participants, this program focuses on growth, which I believe will help the muses even more. I’m doing my best in my role.”

Meanwhile, Choo Sung-hoon joined as the physical master.

He shared,

“As a fighter, I was surprised to be invited to a music program. But I was told that helping the muses with stamina and mental strength for large stages would be valuable. So I’ve been offering a lot of mental coaching to them.”

Sixteen Muses Selected Through Blind Testing

A total of 16 muses were selected through blind testing. Lee Seung-chul, Kim Jaejoong, Young K, and Wendy each mentor four participants, helping them reboot their potential.

Kim Jaejoong emphasized his commitment, saying,

“We were once in positions where we were chosen ourselves. The four participants I mentor—I truly want to help them succeed.”

In pursuit of excellence, the masters sometimes took a strict approach.

Kim added,

“I often talk with the muses until dawn. Because of that, emotions sometimes run high. We also meet privately to talk about various things, and sometimes it’s disappointing that those moments aren’t captured on camera.”

Wendy shared,

“I talk with my muses every two days. Since it’s my first time directing elements like production, arrangement, and direction, we are building everything together through constant discussion. Some of the muses even said, ‘This kind of program feels completely new.’”

From Training to Live Performance—Aiming to Create Solo Artists

The four masters oversee everything from training to stage direction for the 16 muses.

Lee Seung-chul remarked,

“Because there is inevitably a competitive structure, we were very aware of what the other masters were doing. But I believe our team changed the most.”

The ultimate goal of ‘The Scout’ is to produce solo artists.

The masters will transform the 16 muses, who will later be evaluated during live broadcasts. The judging system relies entirely on 100% public voting.

Lee explained,

“Participants are evaluated exactly as they are—without revealing age or personal background. Sixteen new songs will be released. The eight contestants who advance to the semifinals will immediately embark on a concert tour, followed by album production and official single debuts.”

Already Planning Through Season 4

Plans for multiple future seasons are already in place.

Lee Seung-chul revealed,

“Season 2 will focus on male solo artists, Season 3 on bands, and Season 4 on female artists. Rather than mixing genders, we believe focusing on each group separately will allow for deeper development.”

The masters themselves also experienced growth through the process.

Young K shared,

“During my six years as a trainee, I received many types of training. You’ll be able to see nearly all of those methods in ‘The Scout.’ Please watch warmly, thinking, ‘So that’s the kind of effort and dedication that went into this.’”

Kim Jaejoong added,

“I approached this with genuine affection. I truly hope these participants succeed. Our efforts alone are not enough—we need viewers’ interest and support. We sincerely ask for your support.”

“Watch Raw Gems Turn Into Stars”

In closing, Lee Seung-chul said,

“This is the story of rising stars created by established artists. Please watch as these young talents grow and transform from raw gems into shining jewels. You will witness the ultimate level of detail.”

Meanwhile, ‘The Scout’ will premiere on ENA on May 8 at 8 PM, airing every Friday.

<Photo = Lee Ho-jun>