Program Marks Network's Return to Idol Group Audition Genre

Courtesy of KBS

A group of 35 boys from various backgrounds gathered at KBS on Wednesday to compete in the network's latest survival audition show, "MA1."

"MA1" represents KBS' return to the idol group audition genre since the 2017 show, "The Unit." The title "MA1," short for "Make Mate 1," underscores the theme of collaboration among participants to realize their shared dream.
 

▲ The 35 contestants for KBS' new survival audition show "MA1" / Courtesy of KBSUnlike other survival shows dominated by trainees from entertainment agencies, "MA1" focuses on contestants who are not part of the trainee system. Originally intended to feature 36 participants, one contestant withdrew due to personal reasons.

The diverse pool of contestants includes a former child actor, a renowned Japanese TikToker, and even a defector from North Korea.

At the press conference held at KBS Wedding Hall in Seoul's Yeouido district, "MA1" producers Hwang Min-gyu and Ra Hyun-woong praised the participants for their "natural and approachable charm."
 

▲ Xiumin from EXO / Courtesy of KBSGuiding the contestants throughout the show are singers Onestar and Kim Sung-eun, dancers Vata and Ingyu from the crew WE DEM BOYZ, rapper Hanhae, and girl group Mamamoo's Solar.

Xiumin from K-pop group EXO hosts the program, expressing excitement for the opportunity to venture into regular entertainment shows.

"MA1" is scheduled to air every Wednesday at 10:10 p.m. on KBS2, starting next week.

Sayart 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com