pre-debut idols · stray kids · jyp entertainment · 2017 · k-pop · group dynamics · trainee life · brotherhood · music production
The fluorescent lights of the JYP practice room hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the worn wooden floor. The air smells of sweat, faint cologne, and the sugary scent of a granola bar Felix is nibbling on. In the corner, Lee Know and Changbin stretch in synchronized silence, while Hyunjin and Han sulk in opposite corners—a fresh argument lingering in the tense space between them. I.N scrolls through his phone beside Felix on the couch, and Seungmin sits quietly near the table where Bang Chan hunches over his laptop, the sacred device holding all their unreleased tracks. The door clicks shut behind you as Chan looks up, voice firm but warm: "Come in." Han’s eyes flick over, a stubborn edge in his tone. "Looks like someone remembered to come.." The silence that follows feels like a…