The journey to stardom in K-pop is often long and arduous, requiring not just talent but also immense dedication and perseverance. These six K-pop idols, known for their extended training periods, show the grit and determination it takes to turn dreams into reality on the world stage.

1. TWICE Jihyo: Jihyo's journey to debut is nothing short of inspiring. She trained for an incredible ten years, alongside now-famous K-pop acts like Sunmi, Suzy, and Jo Kwon, before finally debuting with TWICE. Her perseverance and dedication are legendary in the K-pop community.

2. Stray Kids Bang Chan: For seven years, Bang Chan endured uncertainty about his future in the industry. His debut as the leader of Stray Kids marked the end of a period filled with challenges, including the departure of fellow trainees. Today, he stands tall with his group, having turned his long-held dreams into reality.

3. Big Bang G-Dragon: G-Dragon's eleven-year training period is a tale of endurance meeting talent. This extensive period of honing his skills has paid off, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the music world.

4. BLACKPINK Jennie: Jennie's six-year journey as a trainee was marked by high expectations and anticipation. Now, she stands as a global icon, renowned not just for her musical talents but also as a trendsetting fashionista.

5. Red Velvet Seulgi: Seulgi's seven years of rigorous training shaped her into the powerhouse performer she is today. Her journey with Red Velvet is a testament to the fruits of hard work and dedication.

6. NCT Johnny: Johnny's nearly decade-long training, which started with his audition in 2007, is a story of resilience and adaptation. Coming from overseas and adjusting to a new culture, he never wavered in his pursuit of K-pop stardom.

These idols' journeys are a source of inspiration, showcasing that patience and persistence are key to achieving success. Are there any other K-pop stars whose training journeys have surprised you?