The first step to working in the Korean entertainment industry is creating a Korean portfolio and sending out applications to talent agencies. It can be a daunting task, especially in Korea where the competition is high and everything works a little differently. But, donโt worry, Iโm here to help you snag a position at a Korean talent agency and start pursuing your dreams. Letโs get started!
1. Build a Korean portfolio
The first thing you need to have to be able to begin applying to Korean talent agencies as an actor or model is a Korean portfolio. A portfolio is a visual collection of some of your best quality work. The type of portfolio that you need to create will be a little bit different depending on the kind of work you want to do. Therefore I first suggest that you have a good understanding of the position you are applying for and what makes you stand apart.
While various entertainment jobs are more interconnected in Korea in comparison to other countries, you will still need to know what your main marketable point is. Meaning, even though you might be able to model as an actor or act as a model, it is important that you know what you are most talented at.
2. Create a Comp Card
It doesnโt matter if you model or act, either way, you will need to include a comp card in your Korean portfolio. A comp card is the industry name for a composite card, which is like a summary of your work. It is a small collage showing the diverse range of looks you can achieve. It can be sent to potential employers so that they can quickly get an idea of the type of model/actor you are. In short, a comp card is your visual cover letter.
The comp card you prepare should vary slightly depending on the job you are applying for. Modeling comp cards require more dramatic poses and looks. While actor comp cards generally require more simple and charismatic images that express subtle emotions or show off your facial features.
You can get original while creating your comp cards. There are lots of online programs such as Canva and Pixlr that you can use to create your own. Do your research and find what would be best for you. Once you have created your comp card make sure to list all of your measurements and vital information to accompany your best shots.
3. Film Your Intro Videos
Besides the comp card, another very important item you will need when applying to Korean agencies is an intro video. Introduction videos are an opportunity to show agencies what you look like โin real lifeโ and let your personality shine. Intro videos are make or break, so be sure to put a lot of your time and energy into making a memorable one.
Most often, Intro videos are filmed with you looking as natural as possible, with no makeup or filters. These short clips will also usually be filmed in two angles, short-range and full body. However, specific requirements may vary according to the application requirements.
Short Range Vs Full body
Short-range clips are usually filmed from the waist up. In short-range videos, you will introduce yourself as well as show what your face looks like from various angles. You may also have to show off some diverse facial expressions, depending on what the agent requests.
On the other hand, full body clips are meant to show your figure. Therefore, tight-fitting clothing is preferred. In mid-length videos you will usually introduce yourself verbally. While in full-length clips, you are not necessarily required to do so. Either way, for full body clips, you will need to move slowly in 45 or 90-degree angles to show what you look like on camera from every angle
4. Film An acting Reel
If you are interested in acting you will need at least one good acting reel. An acting reel is a video in which you act out a monolog, showing potential employers your acting ability.
The wider the range of acting abilities and characters you show in your acting reel, the better. Having more than one video is ideal, but if you are just starting and you donโt have that much experience yet, focus your time and energy on creating one really good acting reel.
Once you start getting casting calls, you may have to act out specific scripts. However, at least in the beginning, these acting reels will be what your agent sends out to potential clients. So they need to be the highest quality content you can produce.
5. Compile your Experience
This is not necessarily something that will apply to everyone, especially if you are just starting out, but if you have any sort of experience make sure to put it in a format that is easy to send out to potential employers. If you have done any modeling, commercials, or acting in the past, you should make a short compilation of your work. As you gain more experience, you can add more short clips and slides into your compilation.
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