To all the K-pop fans out there who enjoy survival programs like the “Fantasy Boys,” “My Teen Girl,” “UNDER NINETEEN,” and more, have you heard about the new K-pop survival program premiering this week? Hosted by EXO Xiumin, “MAKEMATE1” is set to debut on May 15, aiming to form the next global project boy group that everyone will love!
“MAKEMATE1“
It’s been about 6 years since “The Unit,” and now KBS has created a new K-pop survival program to assemble a global boy group of six or seven members under the company MAKESTAR! KBS has already launched the official social media accounts of “MAKEMATE1” contestants, introducing the members by releasing various kinds of content for fans to get to know them!
In this global idol group project, the contestants will unite with their mates to create the stage they’ve been dreaming of. It’s the place where the boys will realize their dreams of becoming idol singers. One unique aspect of “MAKEMATE1″ is that it features contestants from different parts of the world, showcasing how the boys overcome language barriers and cultural differences.
“MAKEMATE1” revolves around the concept of contestants having different levels and becoming mates, while some will be each other’s Checkmates, representing rivals. This program will illustrate how the boys have been tirelessly training day and night, with a special system called Mate Rule to assess their progress. Each round will see them divided into two teams, with their teamwork and individual skills evaluated.
For the first time in the history of K-pop survival programs, the 36 contestants of “MAKEMATE1” performed a special halftime show at the professional basketball DB vs Cheong Kwan Jang match before its official release!
The Cast Of “MAKEMATE1“
Starting off strong, this global survival program will be hosted by the living icon of K-pop, Xiumin! He is a member of one of the most renowned and influential K-pop groups, EXO, recognized for his sweet vocals, impressive dancing skills, captivating visuals, and charming personality that resonates with everyone.
Completing the team is MAMAMOO Solar, a trusted and respected figure in the industry, who will offer her support to the participants from the perspective of a current idol, aiding them in realizing their potential. Additionally, “MAKEMATE1” plans to feature various artists who will appear as ‘Special Coaches’ in each episode, providing valuable assistance to the contestants.
Lim Han Byul and Kim Sung Eun will take the lead as vocal coaches, offering insightful yet encouraging advice, while ‘We Dam Boys’ Vata and Ingyoo will serve as dance coaches. The versatile and talented rapper Hanhae will be responsible for guiding the trainees in honing their rap skills and enhancing their overall growth and development.
K-Pop Survival Programs You Can Enjoy Now on KOCOWA+
“UNDER NINETEEN“
“UNDER NINETEEN,” as the name suggests, targets aspiring talents under 19 and is hosted by actress Kim So Hyun. It showcases the journey of 57 boy band hopefuls competing for a spot in the debut lineup of 1THE9. The competition begins with the trainees divided into three groups of 19, mentored by “Directors” and supported by special directors and guests such as TVXQ’s Yunho, Block B’s P.O, EXID’s Hani, GFriend’s Yerin, BTS’s J-Hope, and EXO’s Kai. It’s a platform for young talents to shine in singing, rapping, dancing, and choreography.
“My Teen Girl“
“My Teen Girl” formed the international group CLASS:y, hosted by Yun Kyun Sang. The show aimed to create a global female group of seven members capable of charting on Billboard. With over 30,000 applications from aspirants worldwide, 83 contestants were selected and mentored by industry luminaries like SNSD Yuri, (G)-Idle Soyeon, former Fin.K.L member Ock Joo Hyun, and Aiki. The show’s innovative use of school-themed missions and age-based grouping added a fresh twist to the survival show genre.
“The Unit”
“The Unit” is a unique K-pop survival program featuring established idols forming male and female unit groups. Hosted by mentors like Rain, Hwang Chi Yeul, Hyun A, Tae Min, San E, and Jo Hyun A, the show provides a platform for idols to showcase skills they may not have previously displayed. The KBS competition produced beloved groups like UNB and UNI.T, offering idols a fresh start and fans a glimpse into their versatile talents.
You can watch “MAKEMATE1” and other K-pop survival programs all available on KOCOWA+ with professional subtitles!
