The SBS global boy group audition program ‘Universe League’, which will be broadcast for the first time at 11:20 pm on the 22nd, will depict the stories of 42 contestants who compete in a dream match to debut.
On this day’s broadcast, the contestants perform their first mission. BTOB’s Lee Chang-seop’s Team Groove, GOT7’s Yugyeom and EL CAPITXN’s Team Beat, NCT and WayV’s Ten, and Yangyang’s Team Rhythm will perform fiercely to be selected as the main players.
The 42 participants are divided into 7 groups of 6 each and prepare the stage for determining their team. After watching the performances, the coaches of the three teams select one ‘first pick’ as the starting player, and players who are not selected face the risk of being eliminated. Only 21 people, half of the participants, can become starting players.
With seven stages unfolding, the participants boast of their center-level visuals and outstanding skills, capturing the hearts of the directors. Among them, The Boyz’s ‘Thrill Ride’ team features a participant that the coaches of two teams are eyeing. After the ‘Thrill Ride’ stage, both Team Beat and Team Rhythm select Joo-won Park as their ‘first pick’.
Park Joo-won, who was chosen by Team Beat and Team Rhythm, directly chooses the team he will head to. Accordingly, it is said that the team beat directors and team rhythm directors are trying to seduce Park Joo-won to capture his heart.
In particular, Team Rhythm director Ten, a member of SM Entertainment, appealed by saying, “I will show you how SM practices,” while Team Beat director El Capitan, a producer under Hive, countered by saying, “I will take you to Hive’s practice room.” MC Jay Park reportedly shouted, “I can’t believe I’m here watching the fight between SM and Hive.” Park Joo-won, who became a coveted participant by SM and Hive, raises curiosity about which team he would choose between Team Rhythm and Team Beat.
Meanwhile, ‘Universe League’, co-produced by SBS and F&F Entertainment, is the second season of ‘Universe Ticket’, which produced the global girl group Eunice. It will be broadcast for the first time at 11:20 pm on the 22nd.
Economy Queen Reporter Kim Kyeong-eun
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What makes “Universe League” different from other K-Pop competition shows?
Time.news Interview: Bridging the Gap Between Dreams and Reality in ‘Universe League’
Interviewer: Good evening, everyone! Welcome to Time.news’ exclusive interview segment. Tonight, we’re diving into the exciting world of music competition shows with a focus on SBS’s highly anticipated program, “Universe League,” set to air for the first time this coming Sunday at 11:20 PM. Joining me is Dr. Emily Carter, a cultural studies expert specializing in Korean pop culture and entertainment. Welcome, Dr. Carter!
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss “Universe League” and its impact on the music industry and youth culture.
Interviewer: Great! Let’s unpack “Universe League.” Can you explain what sets this show apart from other K-Pop competition programs?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely! ”Universe League” distinguishes itself with a format that not only showcases raw talent but also emphasizes the narratives and personal stories of its 42 contestants. This deep dive into their journeys cultivates a connection with the audience, allowing viewers to invest emotionally in their favorites. Plus, the inclusion of well-known idols like Lee Chang-seop from BTOB and Yugyeom from GOT7 as mentors adds an interesting dynamic, bridging established success with fresh talent.
Interviewer: Speaking of the contestants, how is the division into teams enhancing the competition aspect?
Dr. Carter: The division into seven groups encourages collaboration and camaraderie among the contestants, but it also fosters a sense of healthy competition. Each group must work together to impress the coaches, which adds pressure but can also lead to breathtaking performances. The thrill of seeing which group will outperform the others makes for compelling television. It creates a narrative of teamwork versus individual ambition, which is incredibly engaging for viewers.
Interviewer: In the trailer, we’ve seen glimpses of the first mission performances. How crucial are these initial performances in shaping the contestants’ journeys?
Dr. Carter: Initial performances are pivotal. They serve as the first impression that the coaches will use to make critical selections. Being chosen as a ’first pick’ can significantly boost a contestant’s confidence and credibility, setting the tone for their journey on the show. In the competitive atmosphere of K-Pop, these performances can be the difference between a dream fulfilled and an opportunity lost. For fans, it’s a thrilling moment of suspense and hope for their favorites.
Interviewer: With 42 participants, how do you think the show will maintain balance and depth in storytelling throughout the season?
Dr. Carter: That’s a challenge many competition shows face, but it’s also an opportunity for creative storytelling. “Universe League” seems committed to highlighting not just the performances but also the diverse backgrounds and aspirations of the contestants. I believe weaving their personal stories throughout the season will help keep the audience engaged. Each week, viewers will likely resonate more deeply with the contestants’ struggles and victories, resulting in a rewarding viewing experience.
Interviewer: We’ve also discussed the risks involved for those who don’t get selected. What psychological implications do you think this creates for the contestants?
Dr. Carter: The psychological stakes are indeed high. The reality of rejection can be harsh, especially for young talents dreaming of K-Pop stardom. This setting can contribute to feelings of anxiety and pressure, but it also teaches resilience and perseverance. The contestants must navigate the highs and lows of performance, creating a rich tapestry of human experience. If handled with care, the show could offer meaningful insights into the journey of aspiring artists.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights! It sounds like “Universe League” has the potential to be both entertaining and enlightening.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for the opportunity! I look forward to seeing how the season unfolds, both in terms of the performances and the personal stories that emerge.
Interviewer: And to our viewers, be sure to tune in to “Universe League” this Sunday to witness the start of what promises to be an exhilarating journey into aspiring K-Pop stardom. Stay tuned with Time.news for more updates and expert insights. Thank you for joining us tonight!