Watch out for I’LL-IT! JBTC’s reality survival show R U Next? aired its final episode on Friday, September 1, and viewers are introduced to the members of HYBE’s upcoming girl group. 

For those unfamiliar, R U Next? began with 22 female trainees who were assessed through seven rounds. The mentors and judges evaluated the participants as they go through different vocal and dancing missions.

The top six contestants who have earned their spot for the official debut lineup were announced during the final episode.

 

SNSD’s Sooyoung, the show’s MC, revealed Wonhee and Youngseo as the first two members of the group. The two placed first and second in the global vote rankings, respectively. 

Meanwhile, the four other members who were chosen by the agency and judges were Minju, Iroha, Moka, and Yunah.

 

In the finale episode, it was revealed that the six will then debut under the group I’LL-IT, which is a combination of the English words “I will” and “it.”

Netizens’ react on the final lineup 

While the debuting members received congratulatory messages from their fans, a lot of Korean netizens and international viewers have expressed their frustration regarding the show.

 

Viewers heavily criticized the sudden changes in R U Next?’s voting process as the final episode generally disregarded international votes and relied more on label picks. 

 

Many were also disappointed that the ace-considered participants did not make it to the cut.

 

Next, netizens also raised their suspicions as to the group’s promotional activities. Just a day after the final lineup was announced, Vogue Korea already featured the debuting members, making viewers think the group was pre-selected.

 

What’s next for I’LL-IT

BE:LIFT LAB, a former joint venture between CJ ENM and HYBE Corporation, will manage I’LL IT. The agency is also home to the multinational boy group ENHYPEN, who were formed through the 2020 survival show I-Land

In early August, it was revealed that HYBE has gained full ownership of BE:LIFT LAB.

After the show’s finale, I’LL-IT immediately launched their official social media accounts. 

 

Fans can now catch the group’s latest announcements through Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok, and Weverse channels. Additionally, the group will have two X (former Twitter) accounts – one for group activities and another for members’ updates. 

 

I’LL-IT members have also penned messages for their fans. Most of them also recall their journey in R U NEXT? and how they feel to be part of the final lineup. 

 

BE:LIFT LAB has yet to announce details about I’LL-IT’s debut as of writing. 

Meanwhile, in other news, HYBE has also launched another survival reality show The Debut: Dream Academy. This time, in partnership with Geffen Records, they’re aiming for a global girl group.

Featured image: The I’LL-IT members pose together after the finale of ‘R U NEXT?’ Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT