40 Participants, Including Former K-pop Stars and Idol Trainees, Vie for Spots in Vocal-Centric Boy Band

Courtesy of Mnet

Mnet, the cable channel known for its survival audition programs, is set to launch "Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival." The competition show aims to create a male quartet active for two years through a head-to-head battle among 40 participants, including K-pop stars, musical actors, and idol trainees.

Notable contestants in the lineup include Im Jun-hyeok, former member of DAY6, Jeonwoong of AB6IX, Lee Dong-hoon of A.C.E, Kang Seok-hwa from WEi, and BAIN from JUST B.

Actor Lee Da-hee will host the show, with a panel of judges comprising Seo Eun-kwang of BTOB, solo artist Kim Jae-hwan, Solar of MAMAMOO, Wendy of Red Velvet, Baekho, and Lee Seok-hoon. 

▲ Courtesy of MnetDuring a press conference at CJ ENM headquarters, Lee Da-hee expressed amazement at the participants' talents, emphasizing the high level of competition. Seo Eun-kwang, known for his vocal prowess, earned the nickname "Viper" for his sharp judging.

Red Velvet's Wendy, in her debut as a judge, focused on evaluating individual charm and overall team harmony. Baekho, Solar, and Kim Jae-hwan, all first-time judges, expressed understanding of participants' emotions, drawing from their own experiences as contestants on Mnet's "Produce 101" (2017).

Producer Ma Doo-sik, renowned for his role on "Super Star K," helms the program, highlighting its unique focus on vocal abilities as opposed to performance aspects. "Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival" is scheduled to premiere on Friday.

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