K-pop idols who almost didn’t debut at all, from BTS’ Jimin and Twice’s Tzuyu and Momo, to Red Velvet’s Seulgi, Super Junior’s Heechul and Got7’s BamBam

Could you ever imagine BTS without Jimin? What about Twice without Momo? You may be shocked to learn that these members almost did not debut with their groups at all.

The K-pop industry is a competitive one to say the least, and would-be idols aren’t guaranteed a spot in the final group line-up despite years of training. The decision behind an idol’s debut ultimately lies with the entertainment agency, and many world-famous stars were once at risk of being removed from the equation altogether.

Here are some K-pop stars who almost didn’t make the cut …