iQIYI’s upcoming survival program, Starlight Boys, has revealed its mentor lineup, featuring some of the biggest names in K-Pop. The show will be hosted by actress and singer Lee Sung-kyung, and it will follow contestants from across Asia as they compete for a spot in a global 9-member boy group.
Mentors include Big Bang’s Daesung, Lee Seung-gi, Pentagon’s Hui, The Boyz’s Eric, STAYC’s Yoon, Kwon Eun-bi, rapper Hanhae, and choreographer Choi Young-joon.
Set to premiere later this year, Starlight Boys promises intense competition, teamwork, and personal growth as participants vie for their chance at stardom.
Starlight Boys: More about the mentors
The mentor lineup for iQIYI's upcoming K-Pop survival program Starlight Boys is packed with experienced industry professionals. Big Bang's Daesung, also known by his Japanese stage name D-Lite, is a veteran singer who debuted in 2006 with Big Bang. After leaving YG Entertainment in 2022, Daesung pursued new projects, including a solo tour in Japan and the release of his single Falling Slowly in March 2024.
Lee Seung-gi, a celebrated singer, actor, and TV host, is another key mentor. Known for hit songs like Because You're My Woman and leading roles in dramas such as Brilliant Legacy and Vagabond, he is a household name across Asia.
Pentagon’s Hui, known for his leadership and vocal prowess, also joins the team. Despite missing out on a debut in Boys Planet, Hui has continued to showcase his musical talents, including recent projects like Whale and a role in The Three Musketeers musical.
Other mentors include The Boyz's Eric, the youngest member of his group; STAYC's Yoon, who debuted in 2020; and Kwon Eun-bi, formerly of Woollim Entertainment and now a solo artist.
Rapper Hanhae, a former member of Phantom, brings his hip-hop expertise, while renowned choreographer Choi Young-joon, famous for his work on Produce 48, completes the mentor lineup. Together, they will guide contestants through the rigorous competition of Starlight Boys.
Lee Sung-kyung to host Starlight Boys
Lee Sung-kyung brings fresh energy to Starlight Boys with her versatility and talent in the Korean entertainment industry. Known for her successful acting career, she has gained widespread recognition through roles in popular dramas like Dr. Romantic and Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo, where her natural acting skills and emotional depth impressed viewers.
Starting her career as a model, her sense of style and presence further contributed to her rise in entertainment. In addition to acting, Lee has showcased her musical talent, having studied piano from a young age. She has released several songs and performed on shows like King of Mask Singer, where her vocal ability and stage presence garnered praise.
Lee has also collaborated with notable artists such as Loco and AKMU’s Lee Chan-hyuk. Additionally, she has surprised fans with her dance skills, performing on her YouTube channel and at fan events, including covers of BLACKPINK's DDU-DU DDU-DU and Jennie's SOLO.