Korean pop’s (K-pop) generational acclaim seeps onto international waters, placing its idols on a pedestal for the world to embrace. While the ability to step into the spotlight may present an unattainable dream for many, Dream Academy: The Debut (드림아카데미) heralds K-pop aspirations through an international girl-group competition. The YouTube series recently announced the competition’s finalists last November 17, 2023, with a Filipina finishing first among its contestants.
Instagram: @sophia_laforteza
Recognized as the sole Filipino contestant, Sophia Laforteza emerged as one of the six finalists of the talent competition reality show. From its reported 120,000 submissions from around the globe in November of 2021, Laforteza managed to get into the final 20.
“A dream that you wish will truly come true. I am beyond grateful for all the love, support, experiences, and opportunities I am receiving. I can’t wait to go on this journey with you all ✨ Maraming salamat, po ♥️,” Laforteza wrote in an Instagram post with news of her inclusion in the project.
With its intent to form “an international girl group based on K-pop methodology,” the HYBE and Geffen Records collaboration organized three missions over 12 weeks. Its performance-related challenges were critiqued by in-house judges and fans, as a Netflix-produced behind-the-scenes documentary is reportedly in the works.
The 20-year-old constantly finished at the top, tallying the most votes during Dream Academy: The Debut’s finale, claiming her position as a pioneering member of KATSEYE. The 2024 scheduled debutants take inspiration from the semiprecious stone of varying colors, delectably describing the feminine, powerful, and unique collaboration of varying cultural heritages.
