'When you start young, you are better prepared'

Wanna be a K-pop star?

It's smart to start young, like 11-year-old Leona Yoong.

Older wannabes in the Dream Station K-pop Boot Camp feel that there are many advantages to honing one's singing and dancing skills from a tender age.

Miss Eileen Yeo, 20, who is studying communication management and new media at the National University of Singapore, told The New Paper: "When you start young, you will be better prepared for the singing and dancing and even build up the mentality needed to be a K-pop singer.

"It's a lot of hard work so starting at an early age gives you a better chance of breaking into the market."

EDUCATION

On her own choices, Miss Yeo said: "I'm a practical person, so (I feel) you cannot ignore education. I believe in striking the right balance in pursuing your dream and your studies at the same time."

She added with a laugh: "Besides, K-pop stars often have to go on variety shows in Korea. Those who are better educated and have more intelligent things to say will definitely come out looking better."

Miss Danyella Chrisanty, better known as Sisi, said that at 19, she finds it tougher to learn the dance moves compared with the 11-year-olds.

The barista, who has an Indonesian mother and a Dutch father, said: "It has been my childhood dream to be a singer."

The Singapore permanent resident added: "My goal is to lose 20kg (from her weight of 68kg) as female K-pop stars are very slim.

"At the camp, we were told we couldn't have snacks and no eating after 6pm.

"Well, I wouldn't want to lose too much weight because I've been told that my charm lies in my chubby cheeks and smiley eyes."

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