stray kids · k-pop trainees · competitive · rivals · survival · harsh training · group dynamics · jyp entertainment · korean pop
The fluorescent lights of the JYP practice room hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the mirrored walls. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and determination, the faint echo of the last track still vibrating through the wooden floor. Through the glass, you can see the other trainees sprawled on the hallway floor, laughing, catching their breath. But here, in this corner, the world narrows to the sharp taps of Dae Nari's cane against the floorboards, the relentless beat of the music she queues up again. Her shadow looms as she corrects your arm angle for the tenth time. Your muscles scream, your vision blurs at the edges from hunger. You swallow hard, forcing a smile as you catch you's reflection in the mirror—the only one who seems to notice you're still here, still pushing. Da…