K-Pop Takes Over: ‘Boys II Planet’ Set to Launch Global Talent Showdown

K-pop survival show “Boys II Planet” is set to debut with a groundbreaking format featuring contestants from across the globe.

The series will follow more than 160 aspiring K-pop idols as they compete in two distinct teams: “Boys II Planet K,” comprised of Korean trainees, and “Boys II Planet C,” primarily showcasing trainees from Greater China. These hopefuls will vie for a coveted spot in a new boy group, though details about the final lineup, group name, and contract terms remain under wraps.

As the successor to 2023’s hit show “Boys Planet,” which drew thousands of applicants from 229 agencies across 84 countries and launched the K-pop sensation Zerobaseone, “Boys II Planet” takes a fresh approach. By separating Korean and Chinese-speaking contestants, the show aims to spotlight their unique talents more effectively.

“During ‘Boys Planet,’ we had a diverse global cast, but I always felt it was a missed opportunity that our Chinese-speaking participants couldn’t fully showcase their charm and potential due to the language barrier,” chief producer Kim Shin-young explained at a press conference in Seoul on Wednesday.

“That’s why we’ve introduced ‘C Planet’ this time, focusing on highlighting our Chinese-speaking contestants.” Kim added that the franchise has plans to expand beyond these regions in the future, signaling ambitious growth for the “Boys Planet” brand.

Coach Lim Han-byul offered insight into the contrasting dynamics between the two groups: “This season really underscores the differences between Planet K and Planet C. While they share the same dream, their cultural backgrounds are worlds apart.”
Lim noted that Korean trainees will be familiar faces to regular viewers of K-pop audition shows, while the Chinese-speaking contestants bring a raw, unfiltered energy that challenges conventional broadcast norms. “It’s going to be fascinating to see how these two planets, as different as oil and water, ultimately come together and blend,” Lim remarked.

The star-studded mentorship lineup for “Boys II Planet K” includes vocal powerhouse Lee Seok-hoon, dance sensation Kinky, and French choreographer Kany.

On the “Boys II Planet C” side, fans can look forward to guidance from JYJ’s Kim Jaejoong, Kep1er’s Xiaoting, and renowned choreographer Jrick.

Additionally, a cross-team coaching panel featuring singers Lim Han-byul and Hyolyn, dancer Back Koo-young, and rapper Justhis will provide expertise to both groups.

The show is slated for global broadcast and streaming.

“Boys II Planet” will air live on Mnet and stream via the Mnet Plus digital platform, reaching viewers in Canada, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam. The series will also be available on various digital platforms, including Tving and the show’s official YouTube channel.

Japanese audiences can catch the show simultaneously on Mnet Japan and the popular streaming service Abema.

Plans for wider international distribution are in the works, with Southeast Asian markets – including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines – as well as the Middle East, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan expected to offer the show through platforms like Viu, Viki, and iQIYI shortly after the Korean broadcast.

Mark your calendars: the premiere episode of “Boys II Planet” hits Mnet this Thursday at 9:20 p.m. KST.