Reasons Lami Spent Years Training at SM Entertainment Without Debuting with Aespa

Lami’s Journey: From SM Rookies to Acting Debut

For dedicated followers of SM Entertainment, the tale of former trainee Lami is a compelling narrative. Once heralded as the potential “new generation princess” of the entertainment giant, Lami was born in 2003 and showcased her acting talents with roles in notable films such as Five Fingers and A Wife’s Credentials back in 2012. First introduced as part of the SM Rookies concept in 2013, she quickly garnered attention and amassed a loyal fan base. Her striking looks, radiant smile, and enchanting features drew parallels to beloved idols like Sulli and Yoona.

On December 9, 2023, SM Entertainment officially announced Lami’s transition to acting, confirming her debut under the agency. The announcement was reported by Xports News and marked a significant new chapter in her career by updating her profile as an artist within the SM roster.

The Unfolding Mystery of Lami’s Departure

Despite her promising start, Lami’s path took an unexpected turn when she departed SM Entertainment in early 2020, just months before the launch of the girl group aespa. Her exit raised numerous questions, considering she was once considered an “ace” and “new generation goddess” within the agency. Fans pondered why a talent with such potential did not debut with aespa and why she chose to return later as an actress.

1. Misalignment with aespa’s Concept

One factor contributing to Lami’s departure could be the mismatch between her image and aespa’s unique concept. aespa embraces a strong, fantasy-inspired aesthetic that borrows elements from game characters, emphasizing striking visuals and bold fashion choices. Initially, Lami fit SM’s traditional model of a pure, beautiful girl group member. However, with the rise of the girl crush trend, SM sought to redefine its lineup with a fresher approach, moving away from innocent portrayals to cultivate a striking, real-virtual group identity.

Consequently, it is believed that SM’s strategic pivot made Lami’s continued involvement with the new girl group untenable, leading to her eventual exit.

2. Family Concerns Regarding Her Idol Career

Lami’s departure at the beginning of 2020 coincided with a sensitive period in K-pop, especially following the tragic losses of idols Sulli and Goo Hara. Their untimely deaths profoundly affected the industry, and many speculate that such events influenced Lami’s decision regarding her future. Coming from a family that strongly values her well-being, Lami’s parents reportedly expressed concerns about her aspirations to become an idol, especially in light of the turmoil within the K-pop community during late 2019.

There were indications that Lami faced pressure from her family to prioritize her education over a potentially perilous entertainment career, echoing concerns shared by other families in the industry. Although it is common to assume that her dismissal was the result of her failing to meet aespa’s rigorous concept, it is important to recognize that SM Entertainment has historically nurtured its stars’ careers and would likely not sever ties with a beloved trainee without valid reasons.

Rather than being a case of “not fitting in,” it appears that Lami’s unwavering desire to debut as an idol may have waned over the years, combined with the familial support that crucially shaped her path.

Lami's career development over the years

Ultimately, Lami’s narrative exemplifies the complexities young talents face within the K-pop ecosystem, balancing personal aspirations with family influences and industry demands. Now as she steps into her role as an actress, many fans are eager to support her new journey.