Mnet's 'Boys 2 Planet' is raising expectations for an official rookie boy group by discovering raw gems.
The Mnet audition program 'Boys 2 Planet' is increasing fan engagement by presenting new stages and narratives in each episode. In the fifth episode, the first survival announcement ceremony was held, revealing the 48 contestants who will advance to the next round.
With all participants, including Lee Sang-won, Jo Woo-an, Kim Jun-seo, and Lee Ri-o, receiving attention, the participants who first gained recognition through 'Boys 2 Planet' have stood out, living up to the title of 'star discovery hotspot.' We took a look at the shining raw gems among the experienced K-pop participants.
# Rising as 'Next Generation Contenders' in the Top 8: Jung Sang-hyun, Choi Rip-woo, Masato
Jung Sang-hyun, who made it to the Top 3, solidified his presence with solid rap skills and stage manners typical of a 'hip-hop unit trainee.' Choi Rip-woo caught the attention of star creators even before the broadcast with his unique atmosphere, raising curiosity about whether he can maintain his ranking as he continues to grow. Additionally, Masato started as a candidate for the 'signal song test' but maintained his 2-star status in the second rank determination battle, securing a spot in the Top 8 through unwavering effort.
# Proving Skills on Stage: Growth Types! Pan Zhi, Xu Qingyu, Sun Jiayang, Tian Kaiyuan, Nian Bo Hang
Although they did not make it to the Top 8, there are participants among the All-Stars who have solidified their presence through repeated performances. Pan Zhi, who received an All-Star for outstanding skills in the rank determination battle, consistently captured the hearts of star creators and settled in 13th place. Xu Qingyu raised his ranking from the beginning by serving as the center of the signal song dance unit, while Sun Jiayang won fans over with her cute appearance and bright charm. Tian Kaiyuan showcased powerful rap skills in the first competition as a sub-rapper, and Nian Bo Hang established himself as an 'icon of ranking rebound' by maintaining his All-Star position and rising to 24th place.
# Who is Closely Following the All-Stars? Participants Seeking a Turnaround from Two Stars
In the next survival announcement ceremony, only 24 will survive. To do so, they must absolutely rise to All-Star status. Among the two-star participants eyeing a turnaround opportunity, there are those who caught attention by appearing on the broadcast for the first time. Participants like Sen, Feng Jinyu, Park Dong-kyu, Tian Bowon, Kim Jae-hyun, and Park Jun-il, who showed solid and stable skills, as well as Jeong Hyun-jun, who was re-highlighted for his exceptional dance skills, and potential growth shown by Hu Huan, Tatsuki, Kim Si-hwan, and Kim In-ho, are all participants to watch as they aim to succeed in the 'rank battle for position' and achieve a ranking rebound.
Meanwhile, according to Good Data Corporation's Fundex, 'Boys 2 Planet' ranked first in the TV and OTT popularity category for two consecutive weeks, surpassing popular dramas and entertainment shows. Additionally, participant Lee Sang-won ranked first in non-drama cast popularity for two weeks in a row, proving the intense interest of the global fandom.
With the support of star creators from around the world and the backing of a global fandom, who will be the new boy group member born from this Planet universe? 'Boys 2 Planet' Episode 6 will air on the 21st at 9:20 PM.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]