K-Pop Survival Shows in 2024: I-land 2, Road To Kingdom 2 & More

K-Pop Survival Shows in 2024: I-land 2, Road To Kingdom 2 & More

As a seasoned gamer and a passionate K-pop enthusiast who has been following the Korean music scene for over a decade now, I must say that 2024 has been an extraordinary year! The rise of new talent through these survival shows has been nothing short of breathtaking.


2024 saw numerous beloved K-pop survival shows capturing attention. Following a strong first half, South Korean broadcaster Mnet is hinting at the launch of two thrilling new series within this genre.

In the realm of gaming (gaming being an analogy for following K-pop), about a decade back, I stumbled upon the advent of K-pop reality survival shows. Fast forward to today, these shows have seen countless idols rise from obscurity to stardom over the past ten years. Among them is Stray Kids, who made their Billboard 200 chart debut after their appearance on one of these shows.

The Mnet series, Produce 101, played a significant role in launching numerous well-known idols into the music industry, such as Jeon Somi, Ong Seung Wu, Park Ji Hoon, and others. Therefore, let’s examine some of the most popular K-pop competition shows from 2024 that debuted the next wave of idol stars.

Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor

Mnet’s “Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor” aired between January and March, captivating the hearts of K-pop enthusiasts due to its focus on showcasing the powerful vocal skills of up-and-coming idols. Notable competitors included Pentagon’s Yeo One, Jay Chang from One Pact, and Bain from Just B.

In the final round, it was Bitsaeon, Seunghun, Jay Chang, and Kim Seo – collectively known as B.D.U – who were crowned victors. They unveiled themselves to their audience with their EP titled “Wishpool”.

I-LAND 2: N/a

A widely talked-about survival program sweeping the web is “I-Land 2” by Mnet, in partnership with YG’s subsidiary, The Black Label, and Mnet itself. This exciting competition saw 24 contestants vying for victory, with seven newcomers ultimately claiming the top spots.

As a longtime fan of K-pop music, I am thrilled to share my excitement about the upcoming debut of the new group IZNA. Having followed the competition series I-Land 2: N/a closely, I have been captivated by the unique personalities and talents of the seven members: Jungeun, Jeemin, Jiyoon, Koko, Sarang, Mai, and Saebi.

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Make Mate1

KBS’ hit reality show “Make Mate 1” gained popularity by inviting diverse newcomers with unique personalities. Initially, 36 trainees were selected, who then competed fiercely to secure a spot in the potential debut group.

In the final game, Noh Gihyeon, Jeon Junpyo, Jang Hyunjun, Han Yuseop, Lin, Bing Fan, and Miraku were the leading scorers. This team of seven formed a new group called NouerA. According to reports, NouerA is a music band that transcends boundaries and takes bold actions. The name “NouerA” means they will link together different eras through their music. Specifically, “Nouer” means to bind or tie together, while “erA” represents the current era. Hence, NouerA symbolizes connecting past and present with their music.

Road To Kingdom 2

Mnet’s Road To Kingdom is set to come back for another season! The second season of this popular K-pop competition has officially announced its participating groups, which include some top-tier male acts. The lineup of performers includes THE NEW SIX, ATBO and JUST B (Crew One), 8TURN, ONEUS, YOUNITE, CRAVITY, and TEMPEST.

According to reports from Mnet, it appears that SHINee’s Taemin is set to host the upcoming show, titled “Road To Kingdom 2.” As previously announced, this show is scheduled to debut in September. Prior to its premiere, a preliminary fan voting session was organized by Mnet for fans to express their support for the contenders known as ‘Ace’ candidates.

[Road to Kingdom: Ace Among Aces] – The Boy Longing for Love Finally Becomes the Top Ace

Road to Kingdom: Ace of Aces
Coming Soon on September 2024 #RTK #RTK_A #Taemin #TheNewBoys #TheCrew #Eatitt #Originals #United #Cravity #Test #Mnet #Mnet

— Mnet (@MnetKR) August 1, 2024

Stage Fighter

Mnet’s Street Fighter Dance competition series gained immense popularity among K-pop enthusiasts, particularly those with a passion for diverse dance forms. In this Street Fighter series, both male and female dance groups, as well as teen teams, competed to secure their spot by showcasing their skills in various dance battles.

2024 sees the arrival of the next installment in the Street Fighter series, titled “Stage Fighter.” In this upcoming survival reality show, male dancers specializing in ballet, contemporary, and Korean traditional dance styles will compete fiercely to secure their spot on the program. Mnet has hinted at this exciting development.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share that the talented duo, Kwon Young Chan and Choi Jung Nam, who have graced us with their exceptional work in Street Woman Fighter, Street Man Fighter, and Street Woman Fighter 2, are returning to Mnet for another exciting project!

Additionally, you’ll find two more survival shows set to air in the second half of 2024 – Universe League and Project 7, alongside those already mentioned.

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2024-08-07 14:10