Within the realm of audition survival shows, certain contestants emerge as crowd favorites, often seen as frontrunners for the coveted final lineup. However, these competitions are notoriously unpredictable, with many talented “wasted trainees“facing elimination despite displaying exceptional skills.
This article takes a closer look at eight idol trainees from various survival shows whose talent and appeal led fans to believe they deserved a legitimate debut opportunity. From early favorites to shocking eliminations, their stories resonate with many who have followed their journeys:
Notable Idol Trainees Who Should Have Debuted
1. Kim Jong Hyeon – Mnet’s “Produce 101″Season 2
Before stepping into the spotlight on “Produce 101″in 2017, Kim Jong Hyeon, better known as JR from the boy group NU’EST, had already established a fanbase since their debut in 2012. Predicted by many to secure a spot in WANNA ONE, he unexpectedly finished in 14th place. The subsequent revelation of rigged voting in 2019 led fans to speculate that Jong Hyeon may have been adversely affected by the manipulation.
2. Lee Kaeun – Mnet’s “Produce 48”
“Produce 48,”merging K-Pop with the AKB48 concept, showcased Lee Kaeun, a former member of After School, whose visuals and talents captivated many. Despite finishing fifth at one point, she tragically fell to 14th, depriving her of a chance to join the debut group, IZ*ONE, after the voting manipulation scandal came to light.
3. Lee Si An – Mnet’s “Idol School”and “Produce 48”
Another heartbreaking instance is Lee Si An, who, despite her exceptional leadership and vocal skills, ranked 30th on “Produce 48,”leading to her elimination in Episode 11. She later participated in “Idol School,”finishing just shy of debuting, ranking 16th. Recently, Si An has returned to the public eye as a participant in Netflix’s “Single’s Inferno 4.”
4. Lee Jinhyuk – Mnet’s “Produce x 101″Season 4
Lee Jinhyuk, known for his leadership qualities, was another casualty of the “14th place curse.”Despite demonstrating exceptional talent on “Produce x 101,”he did not debut with X1, largely due to the impact of rigged voting. This season marked an ignominious point for the “Produce”series, and X1 disbanded less than a year later. Currently, he serves as the main rapper for the boy group UP10TION.
5. Kawaguchi Yurina – Mnet’s “Girls Planet 999”
With the emergence of the “Planet”series following the end of “Produce,”Kawaguchi Yurina gained notable attention for being the top contestant in 83 countries during the initial elimination round. Unfortunately, her fall from grace mirrored that of her predecessors, as she ultimately placed 14th, thus missing the opportunity to join Kep1er.
6. Terazono Keita – Mnet’s “Boys Planet”Season 2
Terazono Keita established himself as a formidable talent as a member of Ciipher and Evnne but encountered disappointment after failing to debut with ZEROBASEONE. Despite consistently ranking in the Top 9 throughout the competition, he ultimately finished 12th in the finale—much to the disappointment of his fans.
7. Kim Sihun – JTBC’s “Project 7”
On “Project 7,”which aired from October to December 2024, Kim Sihun stood out as an exceptional all-rounder. Even with strong performances, he finished just shy of making the final lineup, ranking 8th and missing the opportunity to become part of the boy group, CLOSE YOUR EYES (CYE).
8. Hayashi Fuko – Mnet’s “I-LAND 2”
Among the talents in “I-LAND 2,”Hayashi Fuko captured fans’ hearts with her remarkable vocal talents and stage presence. However, despite her strong performances, she was ultimately left out of the final lineup, leading to widespread disappointment.
Bonus: Duan Xing Xing – SBS’ “Starlight Boys”
Duan Xing Xing became the latest name to echo the sentiments of “wasted trainees,”as he lost his chance to join the anticipated boy group, POLARIX. His elimination resonated deeply within the fan community, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by talented individuals seeking their debut.
For further reading on the experiences of these idol trainees and the unpredictability of K-Pop survival shows, check out this source.
Related Articles:
BLACKPINK’s Jennie Marks Birthday With Thrilling New Music Teaser: ‘Coming Soon For Everyone’
10:29
ATEEZ’s Hongjoong Sends Fiery Diss at HYBE Labels and Bang Si Hyuk in New Track
10:28
STAYC’s Sumin to Demonstrate Acting Talent in New Horror Film by ‘Goedam’ Director
10:20
Leave a Reply