On October 15, 2024, SBS revealed the profiles for all 42 contestants of their upcoming boy group survival show Universe League. The participants, first introduced in the concept trailer, have already sparked global interest among K-pop fans.
Universe League is an upcoming South Korean reality competition series produced by SBS, which is aimed at forming a new K-pop boy group. It is the second season and male counterpart of Universe Ticket, the audition program responsible for launching the girl group UNIS. The show is set to premiere on November 22, 2024.
Universe League list of contestants: diverse talents, fierce competition, and star-studded leadership
In their profile reveals, the contestants displayed a variety of poses and showcased their passion for success in the competition. With many visually striking participants already capturing fans' hearts, the battle for viewers’ favorites has started to heat up.
Here is the list of contestants in Universe League:
1. Ayumu - 20 (Japan)
2. An Yul - 14 (Korea)
3. Bae Jaeho - 16 (Korea)
4. Cha Woongki - 22 (Korea)
5. Daisuke - 15 (Japan)
6. Eito - 20 (Japan)
7. He Junjin - 19 (China)
8. James - 20 (Thailand)
9. Jang Kyungho - 23 (Korea)
10. Jin Ziming - 17 (China)
11. JL - 20 (Philippines)
12. Kairi - 21 (Japan)
13. Kang Junhyuk - 17 (Korea)
14. Kenta - 22 (Japan)
15. Keum Jinho - 23 (Korea)
16. Kim Daeyun - 22 (Korea)
17. Kim Dongyun - 16 (Korea)
18. Kim Gijoong - 23 (Korea)
19. Kim Hyotae - 20 (Korea)
20. Kim Joohyoung - 21 (Korea)
21. Koo Hanseo - 22 (Korea)
22. Kwon Heejun - 23 (Korea)
23. Li Zhinuo - 20 (China)
24. Li Zhiwei - 22 (China)
25. Mac - 17 (Thailand)
26. Nam Doyoon - 15 (Korea)
27. Park Han - 21 (Korea)
28. Park Jihun - 18 (Korea)
29. Park Juwon 18 (Korea)
30. Park Yeonjun - 17 (Korea)
31. Royce - 23 (China)
32. Seo Jeongwoo - 23 (Korea)
33. Sirin - 15 (Thailand)
34. Steven - 24 (Australia)
35. Xie Yuxin - 19 (China)
36. Yeo Gangdong - 17 (Korea)
37. Yuito - 16 (Japan)
38. Zen Zen - 15 (Thailand)
39. Zhang Shuaibo - 22 (China)
40. Jiang Fan - 19 (China)
41. Hiroto - 21 (Japan)
42. Chih En - 17 (Taiwanese)
An interesting element in this season is the mix of contestants. Alongside newcomers aiming for their debut, some participants are already familiar to fans. Notable names include Cha Woong-gi and Zhang Shuaibo - contestants from last year’s Boy’s Planet. Nam Do-yoon, who portrayed the younger version of Jung Hae-in in Netflix's D.P. is also competing.
Universe League brings together a diverse group of contestants, including former and current idols, actors, and those who have previously competed in survival programs. With such a range of nationalities, ages, and experiences, viewers are eager to see the dynamic stories that will unfold.
Jay Park is set to host Universe League
The 42 participants of Universe League will be divided into three teams—Rhythm, Groove, and Beat. They will compete in a league-style format to secure a spot in the final global boy group and win the prize, the Prism Cup. Three prominent K-pop artists will act as coaches for each team. They will select team members and compete against each other throughout the show.
The lineup of the managers leading the three teams is impressive. Lee Changsub and Yugyeom, both recognized for their exceptional skills in performance, singing, and visuals, will serve as producers for the teams.
Further, they will be joined by WayV's Ten and Yangyang, who will also take on key roles. Additionally, Jay Park from 2PM will act as the sole MC, guiding the contestants throughout their journey. Together, they will identify participants with immense potential, enhance their skills, and work towards creating the strongest global K-pop boy group.
Universe League is co-produced by SBS and F&F Entertainment. The show is expected to showcase intense competition and development as the contestants push toward their dreams of global stardom. The final lineup will debut under F&F Entertainment, an agency associated with the clothing company of the same name.
This highly anticipated survival program is scheduled to launch on November 22, 2024.