A popular K-pop idol is igniting conversations about his decision to participate in a fourth survival show following a “failed”re-debut. Should he consider stepping away from the idol path?
On September 29, Lee Hangyul was officially unveiled as a contestant for the upcoming iQIYI x SBS survival show, “Starlight Boys,”set to premiere in October.
In anticipation of the show, netizens flocked to a web forum to revisit Hangyul’s reflections on his journey through various survival programs, contemplating when his participation might finally come to an end.
Hangyul began his audition show journey in 2017 with KBS’s “The Unit.”At that time, he was already a member of the group IM, which debuted under MBK. In 2019, he re-debuted as a member of X1 after participating in Mnet’s “Produce x 101.”
He experienced a brief surge in popularity until X1 disbanded in early 2020. Following this, he continued under H&D, a sub-unit formed with former X1 member Dohyon, before transitioning to PocketDol Studio’s new boy group, BAE173.
Unfortunately, BAE173 did not achieve significant fame and had limited promotional activities, leading them to join JTBC’s “Peak Time”last year for visibility.
K-pop enthusiasts have expressed their disappointment as Hangyul makes efforts to establish his name by entering yet another survival show. Many fans are holding his label accountable for not exploring other career avenues for him or allowing him to pursue better opportunities.
K-Netz have voiced their regrets, noting that Hangyul possesses both remarkable skills and visuals, with some suggesting he may find greater success in acting, a field that is less saturated than the idol sector.
Here are a few comments from fans:
- “This kid is talented in both skills and looks, but it’s such a pity.”
- “It’s not even his fault; he has wasted so much time.”
- “Hangyul, why is life so tough for you? This kind of talent deserves to succeed.”
- “The lack of marketing strategies for such a rare and gifted individual is disappointing.”
- “If the group is struggling right now, entering acting might be a viable option. But going through a survival show four times takes a toll on one’s mental strength—does he have any left?”
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