Get ready for the most ambitious survival show yet—160 trainees, two countries, and one debut team.

🎬 A Global K-pop Battle Begins

Mnet's Boys2Planet is set to shake up the K-pop survival scene with its boldest concept so far. The show splits contestants into two groups: Planet K (Korean trainees) and Planet C (Chinese-speaking trainees). Each team features 80 members, making this the largest lineup in the franchise's history.

CP Kim Shin-young explained during the July 16 press conference at The Saint, "We planned for global expansion from the beginning. That's why we created Planet C as a separate Chinese-language version—this is a true evolution of the series."

🌍 One Goal, Two Worlds

Although Boys2Planet initially planned to debut separate teams from each planet, the producers decided on a single debut group combining the top contestants from both sides. The viewers—dubbed "Star Creators"—will vote to determine the final lineup of the Alpha Group.

"The synergy that could arise when Planet K's polished trainees meet Planet C's raw talent excited us," Kim added. "We believe one debut team creates the strongest outcome."

🧭 Why a China-Focused Format?

Kim also addressed the decision to spotlight Chinese-speaking contestants more fully. "Even in Season 1, many C-trainees had potential, but the Korean-language format limited their ability to shine," he said. "This time, we're starting with a dual-planet structure. In future seasons, we're open to expanding to other regions."

🌟 Unexpected Pairings, Fresh Energy

Expect surprises. Planet K contestants typically come from formal training systems, while Planet C participants bring a more spontaneous, bold flavor.

Master judge Lim Han-byul teased, "Planet K feels familiar, but Planet C? They're wild, unfiltered, and brutally honest. It's refreshing—and sometimes shocking."

K-pop veteran Kim Jaejoong, who joins as a master, added, "Many of the C trainees had no prior audition experience. They've practiced alone and don't even know how good they are yet. Our job is to help them unlock that potential."

⚖️ Fairness, Screen Time, and Cultural Concerns

Some concerns were raised about possible favoritism toward WakeOne trainees (a CJ ENM label). CP Kim assured, "We're fully aware of viewers' expectations. We won't do anything to damage the brand's trust. This franchise is built for the long haul."

With 160 trainees, screen time is a hot topic. "We've prepped tons of additional content—fancams, personal PR clips, and more—so every contestant can be seen," Kim said.

Given past contract issues with Chinese idols, the team has also prepared conflict-avoidance systems. "We're putting global management strategies in place to prevent cultural or contractual friction," Kim emphasized.

🎤 K-pop Evolution in Real Time

Master Lee Seok-hoon praised the high caliber of contestants: "You can truly feel how far K-pop has come. And viewers these days are practically master-level themselves."

Kim Jaejoong closed the conference by saying, "We may start with two separate channels—K and C—but it all becomes one connected story. Watch closely from beginning to end."

📺 Boys2Planet premieres July 17 at 9:20 PM (KST) with the K-version, followed by the C-version on July 18. The show will be available on Mnet, TVING, and globally via Abema, Viu, Viki, and iQIYI.