Global Idol Dreams Meet Harsh Realities in ‘WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE’ #7
ABEMA’s ‘WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE’, the ambitious audition program by HYBE × Geffen Records to discover Japan’s next global idol, aired its seventh episode on April 7, 2026. The episode unfolded with high drama as a frontrunner made a surprising decision to withdraw, leading to an outpouring of emotion from both fellow contestants and the studio cast, including host Sashihara Rino and LE SSERAFIM’s SAKURA.
This project, a collaboration between HYBE, known for global artists like BTS, and Universal Music Group’s Geffen Records, aims to find a single artist in Japan to join ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ trainees Emily, Lexie, and Samara for a global girl group debut in 2026. The stakes are incredibly high, making every decision a pivotal moment.
SAKURA’s Candid Confession: The Unseen Struggles Before Debut
The episode delved into the rigorous training for the final mission in Los Angeles. During a studio discussion, comedian Hikoruhi asked about unforgettable experiences of being scolded. LE SSERAFIM’s SAKURA revealed the intensity of her pre-debut days: “It was tough before LE SSERAFIM’s debut. I’d get scolded, rush to the restroom to cry, then come back out and return to the practice room – that was my daily life.” Sashihara Rino confirmed this, recalling their frequent LINE exchanges: “She would message me, ‘I’ve been told this, and I’m crying so much.’ The words were quite strong, and I thought, ‘Wow, SAKURA, hang in there.'”
Despite the hardships, SAKURA offered a powerful message of encouragement to the trainees, reflecting on her own journey. “But being told off means someone still believes in you. Having people genuinely scold you and push you to work harder, even after debut, is truly a good environment.” This sentiment, a common wisdom in the demanding world of K-Pop, underscores the deep commitment required from both artists and mentors.
A Shocking Departure: HIORI’s Heartbreaking Decision
Amidst the challenging lessons for both singing and dancing, mentored by Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui, contestant HIORI faced significant struggles. While AYANA, with 10 years of dance experience, received praise, HIORI, who had fallen behind due to poor health, was met with tough feedback from coaches like Presley Tucker: “You seem scared,” and “You lack confidence and are timid.” Despite encouragement that her progress relative to others didn’t matter, HIORI’s notebook revealed her inner turmoil: “I’m reaching my limit,” and “Anxiety is setting in, it’s hard.”
In a dramatic turn, HIORI visited Jay Inn, HYBE × Geffen Records’ Creative Production Head. There, she delivered her shocking decision: “To be direct, I would like to withdraw.” She cited her initial setback from illness in LA, the skill gap with existing members, and a growing misalignment between her six-year dream of being a K-Pop idol and the group’s direction. Jay Inn, visibly moved to tears, expressed his shock: “I never expected this. All judges unanimously considered HIORI the top candidate in the third round.” While regretting her departure, he respected her difficult choice, concluding with a firm handshake and “Thank you for your hard work.”
A Sisterhood’s Farewell and Studio Cast’s Empathy
Later that evening, HIORI gathered AYANA, AOI, and SAKURA (the contestant) to deliver the news herself. The sudden farewell brought tears, especially from SAKURA, who had struggled alongside HIORI as a novice. She tearfully urged, “Please don’t let anything that happened or your actions here drag you down in the future.” AOI praised HIORI’s character: “She has strong talent as a person. She was truly too kind.” AYANA echoed similar sentiments, “I hope you don’t give up on your dream, and don’t lose confidence.”
Sashihara Rino, watching the unexpected withdrawal of a top contender, also shed tears. “When I think about all the things she considered – what you can only understand by standing next to and dancing with the three already decided members, her physical condition – this decision she arrived at, I truly hope she finds happiness in the future. Whether it’s a different path, in entertainment or not, I hope she makes a decision she can be satisfied with.” MOKA of ILLIT added, “I almost cried at SAKURA’s words. SAKURA’s words were so kind, and I think they were words she could only say because she had watched HIORI from close by… I felt so much empathy for everyone.”
With HIORI’s departure, only three Japanese contestants remain, with AYANA being the sole experienced dancer. The path to global debut just became even more challenging.
How to Watch ‘WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE’
The dramatic #7 episode of ‘WORLD SCOUT: THE FINAL PIECE’ is available for free on-demand streaming on ABEMA. Viewers can catch up on all the emotional twists and turns.
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#7 First Half: https://abema.tv/video/episode/90-2039_s1_p170
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#7 Second Half: https://abema.tv/video/episode/90-2039_s1_p171
ABEMA, celebrating its 10th anniversary on April 11, 2026, continues to deliver diverse entertainment as a “new future television” platform. For more information on ABEMA’s 10th-anniversary events and content, visit https://contents-abema.com/10th/.
This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the immense pressure and personal sacrifices inherent in the pursuit of global idol stardom. The journey for the remaining contestants will undoubtedly continue to test their resolve, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the making of tomorrow’s stars.
