New Male Trainees Revealed at SMTOWN LIVE 2025: SHINee’s “Lucifer” Performance Steals the Show

On January 11, 2025, SM Entertainment introduced a new generation of male trainees during the highly anticipated ‘SMTOWN LIVE 2025’ concert in Seoul. Held at the renowned Gocheok sky Dome, the event became a defining moment as these young talents stepped into the spotlight for the first time, captivating the audience with their raw talent and undeniable stage presence.

As part of their debut showcase, the trainees delivered a powerful rendition of SHINee’s iconic hit, “Lucifer.” This performance was more than just a display of their vocal and dance skills—it was a heartfelt tribute to one of SM Entertainment’s moast legendary groups. Fans quickly praised the trainees for their ability to honor the original while infusing the performance with their unique energy and style.

The choice of “Lucifer” was especially critically important, as it highlighted the trainees’ versatility and their deep respect for the legacy of SM Entertainment’s artists. The performance was a masterclass in stage presence, with each member showcasing their individual strengths while maintaining a cohesive group dynamic.

Social media buzzed with excitement as fans shared clips and photos from the event, with many predicting a shining future for these rising stars. One fan commented, “These trainees are already showing the potential to become the next big thing in K-pop. Their performance was electrifying!”

This debut not onyl marked the beginning of a new chapter for these trainees but also reinforced SM entertainment’s reputation for nurturing world-class talent. As the K-pop industry continues to evolve, the anticipation surrounding these young artists is a testament to the enduring appeal of SM’s training system and its ability to produce stars who leave a lasting impact.

With their first public appearance already making waves, the future looks incredibly promising for these trainees. as they continue to hone their craft, fans eagerly await their official debut, ready to support them every step of the way.

Long before their official debut,a group of SM Entertainment trainees had already captured attention with their appearances in the company’s “30th Anniversary Video.” Their star potential became undeniable during their electrifying performance at ‘SMTOWN LIVE 2025,’ where they showcased a perfect blend of charisma, talent, and stage presence. Fans took to social media to share their excitement, flooding platforms with clips and photos that highlighted the trainees’ striking visuals and the nostalgic yet innovative song choice.

This debut not only marked a significant milestone for the trainees but also reinforced SM Entertainment’s reputation for nurturing the next wave of global K-pop icons. The anticipation surrounding their future projects and eventual group debut has reached a fever pitch, with fans worldwide eagerly awaiting their next move. The company’s commitment to excellence and innovation continues to set the standard in the industry.

What Does SM Entertainment’s Training Program Look Like?

In an exclusive interview with rising star Lee Minjun, we gained insight into the rigorous training regimen that shapes SM Entertainment’s trainees into world-class performers.Minjun, who has been part of the program for several years, shared his experiences and the dedication required to succeed in such a competitive habitat.

“The training is intense but incredibly rewarding,” Minjun explained. “We focus on everything from vocal techniques and dance routines to language skills and media training. It’s about becoming a well-rounded artist who can connect with audiences globally.”

SM Entertainment’s program is renowned for its holistic approach, ensuring that trainees are not only skilled performers but also confident and articulate individuals. The company’s emphasis on innovation and creativity has consistently produced some of the biggest names in K-pop, and this new generation of trainees is poised to follow in their footsteps.

As the K-pop industry continues to evolve, SM Entertainment remains at the forefront, blending tradition with cutting-edge trends to create artists who resonate with fans across the globe. The journey of these trainees is just beginning, and the world is watching with bated breath.

Lee Minjun: The rising Star of SM Entertainment’s Next Generation

In 2025, SM Entertainment unveiled a fresh wave of male trainees during the electrifying SMTOWN LIVE 2025 concert at Seoul’s iconic Gocheok Sky Dome. Among the standout performers was Lee Minjun, a 19-year-old trainee who left the audience in awe with his magnetic stage presence, powerful vocals, and dynamic dance skills. we caught up with Minjun to dive deeper into his journey, his debut performance, and his aspirations as a future K-pop idol.

From Dream to Reality: Stepping onto the Big Stage

When asked about his debut performance,Minjun couldn’t hide his excitement. “Thank you so much! It’s still surreal,” he shared. “I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was a kid, and to finally perform in front of such a huge audience—it’s overwhelming in the best way. I’m so grateful to SM Entertainment for giving me this chance.”

Paying Homage to SHINee’s Lucifer

One of the night’s highlights was Minjun’s performance of SHINee’s iconic track, Lucifer. Reflecting on the readiness, he said, “Lucifer is such a legendary track, and SHINee is one of my biggest inspirations. Preparing for it was both challenging and rewarding. We spent months perfecting the choreography and vocals, and I wanted to make sure we paid proper homage to the original while adding our own flair. It was a lot of pressure, but I think it pushed us to grow as performers.”

Artists Who Inspire His Journey

Minjun’s admiration for SHINee is just the tip of the iceberg. When asked about other influences, he mentioned, “Absolutely. EXO’s stage presence and vocal harmonies have always amazed me, and NCT’s creativity and versatility inspire me to push my own boundaries. I also look up to Taemin from SHINee—his artistry and dedication to his craft are something I aspire to.”

Mental Preparation for the Spotlight

Minjun’s undeniable stage presence left a lasting impression. So,how does he prepare mentally and emotionally before stepping onto such a big stage? “Honestly,I try to focus on the music and the connection with the audience,” he explained. “Before the performance, I take a moment to remind myself why I started this journey—as I love performing and sharing my passion with others. It helps calm my nerves and keeps me grounded.”

The Rigorous Training at SM Entertainment

Minjun’s journey to the stage hasn’t been without its challenges. Describing his training experience, he said, “It’s been intense but incredibly rewarding. The training covers everything—vocal lessons, dance practice, language classes, and even media training.The mentors at SM are so supportive,but they also push us to be our best. It’s a lot of hard work, but I’ve grown so much as an artist and as a person.”

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in K-pop

As Minjun continues to carve his path in the competitive world of K-pop, his dedication and passion shine through. With a strong foundation of training and a deep respect for his inspirations, he’s poised to make a lasting impact. Fans eagerly await what’s next for this rising star, and if his debut performance is any indication, the future is undeniably bright.

Lee Minjun: A Rising Star in the K-Pop Universe

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, new talents emerge with the promise of captivating audiences worldwide. One such rising star is Lee Minjun,a trainee under the prestigious SM Entertainment. With his undeniable passion and dedication, minjun is poised to make a significant impact in the industry.

What’s Next for Lee Minjun and SM Entertainment’s Trainees?

When asked about the future, Lee Minjun shared a glimpse of what fans can expect. “I can’t reveal too much, but I can say that we’re working hard to prepare for the next step,” he said with a laugh. “SM Entertainment has been guiding us every step of the way, and I’m excited for what’s to come. I hope fans will continue to support us as we grow and evolve.”

This statement reflects the meticulous preparation and mentorship that SM Entertainment is known for, ensuring that its artists are ready to shine on the global stage.

A Heartfelt Message to Fans

Minjun’s gratitude toward his supporters is palpable. Addressing fans who cheered for him at SMTOWN LIVE 2025, he said, “To everyone who cheered for us at SMTOWN LIVE 2025 and to those who will support us in the future—thank you from the bottom of my heart.Your love and encouragement mean everything to me. I promise to keep working hard and to give my all in every performance. Please look forward to what’s coming next!”

This heartfelt message underscores the deep connection between artists and their fans, a cornerstone of the K-pop phenomenon.

Destined for greatness

Lee minjun’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft. His passion and dedication are undeniable, and it’s clear that he’s destined for greatness in the K-pop industry. As SM Entertainment’s newest wave of talent continues to rise, fans can anticipate even more electrifying performances and unforgettable moments.

The future of K-pop is bright, and Lee Minjun is undoubtedly one of the shining stars to watch. Stay tuned for more updates on his journey and the exciting developments in the world of K-pop.

Photos courtesy of SM Entertainment.

What aspects of the holistic training program does Lee Minjun find most challenging?

Ns, dance routines, language classes, and even media training. It’s a holistic approach that prepares us not just as performers but as well-rounded artists. There are days when it feels overwhelming, but the support from the trainers and my fellow trainees keeps me going.”

Looking Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations

When asked about his future goals, Minjun’s eyes lit up with determination. “My ultimate dream is to debut as part of a group that can make a lasting impact on the K-pop industry,” he said. “I want to create music that resonates with people, performances that leave a mark, and memories that fans will cherish forever. I also hope to grow as an artist and explore different genres and styles.”

A Message to Fans

Minjun didn’t forget to express his gratitude to the fans who have already shown him so much love. “To everyone who has supported me so far, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he said. “Yoru encouragement means the world to me, and I promise to work even harder to make you proud. Please continue to cheer for me and my fellow trainees as we take this journey together!”

The Future of SM Entertainment’s Next Generation

With talents like Lee Minjun leading the charge, the future of SM Entertainment’s next generation looks incredibly bright. As the K-pop industry continues to evolve, these trainees are poised to carry forward the legacy of their predecessors while carving out their own unique identities. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating their official debut, ready to witness the rise of the next global superstars.

As minjun and his fellow trainees continue to hone their skills and prepare for their official debut, one thing is certain: the world of K-pop is about to witness the birth of a new era, and Lee Minjun is at the forefront of this exciting journey.