Tag: Mnet

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Mnet Dance Competition ‘Stage Fighter’ Confirms Kang Daniel as Host

Mnet‘s newest dance competition show “Stage Fighter” has generated buzz with the release of its exciting main teaser and the announcement that Kang Daniel will serve as host!

Mnet Confirms Kang Daniel as ‘Stage Fighter’ Host

“Stage Fighter” is a high-stakes survival program where 64 top male dancers from diverse backgrounds, including ballet, contemporary dance, and Korean traditional dance, compete in intense class battles. The show promises a thrilling journey as these dancers push their limits in a quest for supremacy.

The newly released teaser poster prominently features Kang Daniel, who will be hosting the show. Known for his impressive dance skills and background in Korean contemporary dance—a field he specialized in during high school—Kang Daniel’s presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the program. The poster captures him in dynamic poses inspired by the three dance genres, emphasizing his connection to the world of dance.

The main trailer for “Stage Fighter” is nothing short of captivating, spotlighting the dancers’ physical prowess and the critical role that physicality plays in their performances. The trailer opens with a powerful sequence where the dancers showcase their impressive physiques, underscoring the idea that physical attributes are essential in dance. The dancers themselves highlight this point with statements like, “Physical attributes are absolutely crucial in contemporary dance,” and “Without good physicality, you can’t be the lead dancer.”

The competition will feature three distinct dance genres: the refined elegance of Korean traditional dance, the raw expressiveness of contemporary dance, and the regal grace of ballet. Each genre brings its own unique challenges, and the dancers will face rigorous auditions and class battles to secure a coveted spot in the prestigious “First Class.”

As the dancers vie for roles ranging from lead to ensemble, the fierce rivalry and intense competition are sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. “Stage Fighter” is set to premiere on September 24 at 10 p.m. KST, promising an electrifying showcase of talent and determination.

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Mnet Announces ‘PLANET B’ Boy Group Audition Program

Mnet will be launching a new boy group in 2025! The network has just announced the ambitious project “PLANET B”!

Mnet Unveils New Boy Group Audition Program ‘PLANET B’

On July 29, it was announced that Mnet is gearing up to create a groundbreaking global boy group set to make waves in the international music scene by 2025.

“PLANET B” serves as a prequel to a debut survival program aimed at forming a new global boy group. This innovative show will chronicle the journey of discovering numerous hidden talents from around the world, regardless of their nationality.

Contestants selected through “PLANET B” will earn the opportunity to compete on Mnet’s large-scale boy group survival program, scheduled to take place in 2025. This unique approach aims to provide a platform for aspiring K-pop artists to showcase their potential even before the official survival show begins.

The production team behind the new program shared their vision for the project.

“We plan to turn the audition participant recruitment process, which is normally carried out in private until the broadcast, into a prequel program. Through this project, the next generation of K-pop hopefuls can showcase their potential to their hearts’ content before the official debut survival show. We will greet viewers with a fresh idea and challenge by delivering immersive entertainment through which viewers can also help discover hidden talents,” they said.

A New Boy Group in 2025

This innovative format will allow viewers to be actively involved in the talent discovery process, providing an engaging and interactive experience. The prequel program will not only introduce the contestants but also give them a platform to demonstrate their skills and personalities, building anticipation for the main survival show.

Male contestants born before January 1, 2012, can apply through the official website starting on August 10 at 10 a.m. KST. This open call aims to attract a diverse range of applicants, ensuring that the new boy group represents a global array of talents and backgrounds.

“PLANET B” promises to be a pioneering project that will reshape the way K-pop groups are formed, offering an exciting and inclusive path to stardom for aspiring artists worldwide. Fans can look forward to an immersive and captivating journey as they witness the birth of the next global boy group sensation.

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“Road to Kingdom” Announces Final Lineup for Upcoming Season

Mnet’s “Road to Kingdom” has revealed the highly anticipated lineup for its upcoming season. On July 10, Mnet officially announced that THE NEW SIX, The CrewOne (ATBO and JUST B), 8TURN, ONEUS, YOUNITE, CRAVITY, and TEMPEST will be participating in the new season of the competitive reality show.

ONEUS, known for their previous appearance in the 2020 season of “Road to Kingdom,” impressed audiences with their talent and potential for growth. The CrewOne, a newly formed project group comprising ATBO and JUST B, brings a fresh dynamic to the competition.

Earlier in June, “Road to Kingdom” announced significant changes for the upcoming season, including a rebranding that positions the show independently from its predecessor, “Kingdom.” While the original format awarded the winning team a spot in “Kingdom,” the new season of “Road to Kingdom” will stand on its own, focusing on showcasing emerging talent among K-pop boy groups. The revamped season introduces new incentives and opportunities for the winning group.

Set to premiere in September, “Road to Kingdom” promises to captivate viewers with its intense competition and performances. The participating groups are gearing up to demonstrate their skills and creativity on stage, aiming to leave a lasting impression and secure their place in the competitive K-pop landscape.

Fans and enthusiasts can anticipate a thrilling season as “Road to Kingdom” continues to elevate the profiles of rising boy groups and set new standards in the realm of K-pop entertainment.

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ONEUS In Discussion To Return For ‘Road To Kingdom’ Season 2

It looks like ONEUS is preparing for a comeback, but it’s not what you think! The boy group has just been confirmed to be in talks to return for ‘Road to Kingdom’ Season 2!

Will ONEUS Return in ‘Road to Kingdom’ Season 2?

On June 28, it was reported that ONEUS might be making a return to the popular Mnet survival show “Road to Kingdom.” This exciting news follows the group’s initial participation in the first season of the show back in 2020.

In response to the report, an Mnet official confirmed that discussions regarding ONEUS’s participation in the new season of “Road to Kingdom” are underway and being positively evaluated. The potential return to the show would come approximately four years after their first appearance, where they impressed audiences with their dynamic performances and creative stage concepts.

The upcoming season of “Road to Kingdom” promises to be different from its previous iterations. Originally, the show served as a prequel to “Kingdom,” with the winning team securing a spot in the follow-up show. However, this time, “Road to Kingdom” will operate as an independent brand, focusing on spotlighting rising K-pop boy groups and introducing new benefits for the winning team. The rebranding aims to create a fresh and engaging platform for showcasing the talents of emerging groups in the K-pop industry.

Who Will Participate in ‘Road to Kingdom 2’?

In May, it was reported that other groups such as CRAVITY, xikers, THE NEW SIX, 8TURN, YOUNITE, ATBO, and TEMPEST might join the lineup for the new season. While these reports have yet to be confirmed, the potential participation of ONEUS adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the show’s return.

“Road to Kingdom” Season 2 is set to air in the second half of the year, and fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the final lineup and further details about the show. For ONEUS, returning to “Road to Kingdom” could be a significant opportunity to showcase their growth and evolution as artists since their last appearance. Their potential participation is sure to draw attention and excitement from their dedicated fanbase and K-pop enthusiasts alike.

As the discussions continue and the lineup is finalized, fans can look forward to an exciting season of “Road to Kingdom,” filled with intense competition, impressive performances, and the discovery of new K-pop talents.

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AKB48 Treated Like Royalty Upon Arriving in Seoul for First Korean Fan Meeting

The members of J-pop girl group AKB48 were treated like royalty during their recent fan meeting in Seoul. It all started upon their arrival at Gimpo Airport, where an impromptu celebration ensued as hundreds of fans gathered at the terminal to greet them. The atmosphere was electric, with fans waving banners and snapping photos as the members made their way through the crowd. The members seemed thrilled by the affection and gifts they received from fans.

Later that day, the same fans who had piled gifts into the members’ arms commented on their beauty, noting that their photos don’t do them justice. They added that the group’s longest-serving member, Kashiwagi Yuki, who also goes by her nickname Yukirin, particularly stood out. “They have really small faces,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Yukirin was really pretty. It was my first time seeing her up close, and I was really surprised. Cameras are misleading. It’s such a waste for her to graduate.”

[4K] AKB48, 김포공항 입국✈️Airport Arrival 24.4.19 #Newsen

A resounding success

The fan meeting itself was a resounding success. The event featured performances, starting with their 63rd single “Karakon Wink,” which marked Yukirin’s last appearance on an AKB48 single.

After dividing into two groups and participating in a random play dance game, they performed their 61st single “Doushitemo Kimi ga Suki da,” with Shitao Miu—known to Korean fans for her participation in the survival show Produce 48, a collaboration between AKB48 and Mnet—taking the center position. Originally, this song’s center was AKB48 graduate Honda Hitomi, who also participated in Produce 48 and made it into the debut lineup of IZ*ONE.

They followed that performance with renditions of their classic hits “Heavy Rotation” and “Flying Get,” and their 62nd single “Idol Nanka Janakattara.” AKB48 kenkyuusei (trainee) Narita Kohina, fluent in Korean, served as the MC of the fan meeting. She also performed a solo rendition of the AKB48 song “365 Nichi no Kamihikouki.”

[4K] AKB48 한국 첫 공식 팬미팅 풀 영상 240420

AKB48, idols you can meet

The Korean fan meeting was a dream come true for many fans. The intimate venue allowed them to get up close and personal with the AKB48 members. After the performances, the members signed autographs for fans. The event ended on a high note, with each member making a concerted effort to make eye contact and smile at everyone present as they bid farewell. This final gesture ensured that fans left the venue feeling personally acknowledged and appreciated.

This event not only solidified the Japanese girl group’s rising popularity in Korea but also highlighted the deep bond they share with their fans, which cuts across cultural and geographic borders. No one does fan meetings like AKB48, proving that their tagline “Idols you can meet” truly suits them. They thrive on such interactions, knowing precisely how to engage in ways that leave fans breathless and thrilled. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Because their first Korean fan meeting was so successful, AKB48 may do more promotional activities in Seoul. Watch this space! Source: X/@AKB48_staff.

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‘Road To Kingdom 2’ Lineup Reportedly Revealed

“Road to Kingdom 2” is officially coming and the lineup may have already been revealed. It looks like CRAVITY will be one of the major acts joining the second season of the highly anticipated show.

‘Road to Kingdom 2’ Teases CRAVITY, xikers, and More

The anticipation surrounding the lineup for the upcoming season of “Road to Kingdom” has reached fever pitch, with reports confirming CRAVITY’s potential participation in the highly anticipated Mnet boy group competition show. While Starship Entertainment, the agency representing CRAVITY, has clarified that no definitive decision has been reached, discussions with the production team are actively underway, hinting at the possibility of their involvement in the show’s second season.

Alongside CRAVITY, rumors abound regarding the inclusion of several other boy groups in the lineup. Speculations suggest that xikers, THE NEW SIX, 8TURN, YOUNITE, ATBO, and TEMPEST are poised to join the competition. However, neither their respective agencies nor Mnet have issued official confirmations regarding these reports, leaving fans eagerly awaiting further announcements.

What to Expect in ‘Road to Kingdom’ Season 2

The announcement of “Road to Kingdom 2” has reignited excitement among K-Pop enthusiasts. Initially premiered in 2020, the show garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative format, which pitted seven boy groups against each other in weekly missions. The intense competition showcased the talents of groups like PENTAGON, ONF, Golden Child, THE BOYZ, VERIVERY, ONEUS, and TO1, captivating audiences with electrifying performances and thrilling showdowns.

The winning team from “Road to Kingdom” earned the coveted opportunity to advance to the subsequent program, “Kingdom,” solidifying their status as rising stars within the fiercely competitive K-Pop landscape. As fans eagerly await further details regarding the new season, including the program title and broadcast date, anticipation also continues to mount, with expectations running high for another exhilarating showcase of musical prowess and artistic excellence.

With the promise of fresh talent and exhilarating performances on the horizon, the forthcoming season of “Road to Kingdom” holds the potential to captivate audiences once again, cementing its status as a must-watch event for K-Pop enthusiasts worldwide. As the excitement builds and speculation abounds, fans also eagerly await the unveiling of the complete lineup and the thrilling competitions that lie ahead.

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Mnet Unveils Contestant Photos for ‘Build Up’ Vocal Survival Show

Forty contestants will participate in Mnet’s upcoming survival show, Build Up. Among them are current and former idols, idol trainees, and some musical actors. They’re all competing for a spot in a vocals-focused boy group. Build Up, set to premiere this Friday, is Mnet’s first survival show of 2024. Its goal is to form a quartet whose main strength is their combined vocal ability.

The show features a distinguished panel of judges, including Baekho, BTOB’s Seo Eun-kwang, Kim Jae-hwan, MAMAMOO’s Solar, Red Velvet’s Wendy, and vocal group SG Wannabe’s Lee Seok-hoon, with model and actress Lee Da-hee hosting.

“There are countless K-pop survival programs, so the show has differentiated itself by focusing on vocals,” said producer Ma Doo-sik. “Build Up is different in that we focus 100 percent on the vocal abilities of the contestants.”

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The host and judges speak

Wendy shared her thoughts on the show’s focus: “A group focused on the vocal aspect needs members who cannot only sing well on their own but also harmonize well with others and know how to work as a group. I felt that each performance by the contestants was different with each stage, so I am a bit worried about how my judging skills will appear to viewers.”

Seo Eun-kwang, known for giving tough critiques, said this of his approach to judging: “I think I became more sensitive, and my standards were higher because a lot of the contestants I was judging were colleagues I’ve performed on stage with. Some contestants lacked vocal skills when we began shooting Build Up, but as we continued filming, there were so many cases where I got goosebumps from the singing.”

Survival show veterans Baekho and Kim Jae-hwan agreed that stern feedback is necessary to help all the contestants grow. Baekho reflected on his own experience, stating, “I understand what the contestants are going through. That makes me more sincere and leaves me giving harsher pointers, because I want them to do well in the end.”

Lee Da-hee, the host, highlighted the allure of survival programs.  She teased the exceptional talent pool that Build Up has, sparking curiosity about the hidden gems among the contestants. “You get immersed in the show when the contestants are very talented.”

[#빌드업/1회 선공개] 두 귀👂를 의심하고 또 의심하게 만드는 무대

The ‘Build Up’ contestants

The 40 contestants, announced on Monday, boast a mix of impressive backgrounds. This includes Boys Planet alums Jay Chang from boy band ONEPACT, Lee Hwan-hee from UP10TION, and Wumuti. Joining them are Woong from AB6IX, Seunghun from CIX, Kang Seok-hwa from WEi, Lee Dong-hun from A.C.E, and Bain from JUST B. 

Also participating is soloist Choi Su-hwan, known for his appearance on Produce X 101 in 2019. Additionally, Taehwan from VANNER, the winner of JTBC’s Peak Time, is a contestant. The show also features musical actors Jo Hwan-ji, Kim Seo-hyung, and Choi Ha-ram, alongside non-celebrity contestants.

In a preview for the first episode, Lee Da-hee talked about the show’s format. She explained that each of the 40 contestants assigned his own voice to one of four categories. There’s “Allround” with 12 contestants, “Soul” with 10, “Power” with 7, and “Unique” with 11. This categorization highlights the diverse styles present in the competition, setting the stage for a dynamic and varied showcase of skills.

Mnet’s Build Up is poised to be a groundbreaking addition to the K-Pop survival show genre. Its premiere is set for January 26 at 10:00 PM KST. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This show is set to be a singing showdown for the ages! Source: YouTube/@Mnet.

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Look: MNET’s Survival Program ‘Build Up’ Reveals Judges

MNET introduces the lineup of judges for its upcoming survival vocal competition. Credit: Twitter/MNET

Get ready for an intense vocal battle! The official judging panel for MNET’s latest survival program Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival has finally been revealed!

On Tuesday, December 12, MNET Korea confirmed Build Up’s judging lineup consisting of renowned singers Lee Seok Hoon, Baekho, BTOB’s Eunkwang, MAMAMOO’s Solar, and Red Velvet’s Wendy. 

With the program’s aim to bring together passionate singers regardless of genre, MNET has brought together the all-star panel to critique the contestants. “The strongest vocalists in the entertainment industry gathered together! Please look forward to the luxury judgment,” they captioned their post. 

Furthermore, the show’s production team also shared their excitement with the lineup. “It is an honor to invite these five people who are undisputed in terms of skills. We will show not only the chemistry of participants, but also the legendary vocal stages under their high-quality judgment,” they stated.

Meet the judges for ‘Build Up’

One of the confirmed judges is SG Wannabe’s Lee Seok Hoon. Known as a “vocal teacher of vocalists”, the singer has garnered praise from viewers for his expertise as a mentor on popular survival programs including Boys Planet. Said show ultimately created the well-loved rookie group ZEROBASEONE or ZB1.

Next in the lineup is renowned singer Eunkwang of the boy group BTOB. Aside from his vocal prowess, Eunkwang has also gained recognition as a producer in the survival show Mega Karaoke Survival VS.

Meanwhile, soloist Baekho (formerly from NU’EST), MAMAMOO’s Solar and Red Velvet’s Wendy  have all proven their vocal abilities as main vocalists of their respective groups. In the show, they are also challenged to share their expertise and sound judgment in the program.

Moreover, it was revealed that the program will have the talented actress Lee Da Hee as the sole emcee, which raised anticipation among viewers. To note, Da Hee has already established a reputable relationship with MNET. Previously, she hosted a number of the network’s shows including Queendom in 2019 and Road to Kingdom in 2022.

As of writing, MNET has yet to introduce the contestants participating in the show.  Build Up is scheduled to air in the first half of 2024, but final dates have yet to be announced. Stay tuned!

Featured image: MNET introduces the lineup of judges for its upcoming survival vocal competition. Credit: Twitter/MNET

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Watch: Mnet’s ‘I-LAND’ 2 to Premiere in April 2024

Mnet releases the first teaser for 'I-LAND' 2. Credit: YouTube/Mnet

Mnet unveiled the first teaser for its upcoming girl group survival show I-LAND 2 during the 2023 MAMA Awards’ first day on November 28. 

The teaser announced that the second season, titled I-LAND 2: N/a with Teddy, is set to premiere in April 2024. “The rise of the next iconic girl group,” the teaser said. “The groundbreaking K-pop debut of 2024.” 

Compared to the first season of Mnet’s I-LAND, which was in collaboration with HYBE in 2020, the forthcoming season will see a partnership with Teddy, a renowned music producer from YG Entertainment, and his agency, THEBLACKLABEL.

For those unfamiliar, Teddy Park has built a stellar reputation for collaborating with some of K-pop’s biggest names. Some of the stars he worked with include BIGBANG, BLACKPINK, Jeon Somi, and 2NE1. As he’s set to take on a pivotal role in I-LAND 2, viewers are anticipating how he’ll take charge in making a global girl group. 

Previously, Mnet has already expressed their optimism regarding this collaboration, sharing that it aims to establish a fresh paradigm for K-pop girl groups. 

What we know so far about I-LAND 2:

Apart from the teaser and the premiere date, Mnet has yet to announce other details about the survival show. 

However, it can be recalled that online applications for the I-LAND 2 ran from July 10 to August 6. Only girls who are born before January 1, 2011 and can travel internationally were allowed to apply. Aside from that,  there’s no  information provided yet about the participants. 

To recall, the first season of the hit reality survival series saw the formation of K-pop boy group ENHYPEN. Moreover, it was initially a joint project between Mnet and Belift Lab, an entertainment agency established through a joint venture between CJ ENM and HYBE. 

However, the second season will now be a collaboration between Mnet and YG Entertainment’s THEBLACKLABEL. 

Furthermore, the new girl group from I-LAND 2 will reportedly promote under CJ ENM’s label WAKEONE. WAKEONE has worked with other survival show-formed groups such as Girls Planet 999‘s Kep1er and Boys Planet‘s ZEROBASONE. 

Featured image: Mnet releases the first teaser for ‘I-LAND’ 2. Credit: YouTube/Mnet

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MNET Unveils Host, Mentors for ‘Street Dance Girls Fighter 2’

Mnet announces the host and mentors for 'Street Dance Girls Fighter 2'. Credit: Twitter/Mnet

Following the conclusion of Street Woman Fighter 2, Mnet has announced that Street Dance Girls Fighter will make its triumphant return for a new season. It is slated for a November 21 premiere.

To note, Street Dance Girls Fighter is a spin-off of the popular Street Woman Fighter series. Here, the remarkable talents of female high school students are being showcased as  they vie for the coveted title of the top teenage dance crew.

In November 2021, the first season premiered which featured 32 teenage girl dance crews. Even though the participants were young, they were able to captivate the audience with their impressive dance skills.

However, it was the five member crew Turns from YGX that emerged as the victors. With that, they were able to claim the title of the best crew in the inaugural season of Street Dance Girls Fighter.

What we know so far about ‘Street Dance Girls Fighter 2’ 

On Thursday, November 2, Mnet officially confirmed that Kang Daniel will be reprising his role as the show’s host. 

Moreover, six accomplished “master leaders” have also been introduced as mentors for the participants.

Returning to mentor the new generation of dancers are Aiki from Hook and Gabee of La Chica. Both are known for their invaluable participation to Street Woman Fighter 1.

Furthermore, the four leaders from the Top 4 crews of Street Woman Fighter 2 have also been confirmed to take on mentoring and judging duties in the upcoming season. These esteemed leaders include Bada of BEBE, Kirsten of JAM REPUBLIC, Lia Kim of 1MILLION, and Funky_Y of MANNEQUEEN. 

 

 “We anticipate that the collaboration between the Season 1 and Season 2 crews will result in fresh synergy,” the production team said about the mentors. “We carefully considered factors such as the chemistry with the teenage dancers and the distinctive characteristics of each crew during the selection process.” 

To recall, it was Team BEBE who clinched the championship. While JAM REPUBLIC, 1 MILLION, and MANNEQUEEN finished as second to fourth places, respectively. 

Additionally, the teenage crews will have the unique opportunity to select their own mentor. 

As of writing, Mnet has yet to introduce the participating dance crews for the upcoming season. 

Featured image: Mnet announces the host and mentors for ‘Street Dance Girls Fighter 2’. Credit: Twitter/Mnet

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