K-Pop survival shows are where dreams are made—or shattered in an instant. These intense competitions push trainees to their limits, delivering jaw-dropping performances and producing some of the most iconic K-Pop groups. Now, Starship Entertainment is joining the trend with
“Debut’s Plan,” a high-stakes battle to form their next boy group, “NewKids.” Let’s dive into the details.
Concept and Structure of “Debut’s Plan”
Known for growing and debuting strong talent and artists, like IVE, KIIKII, WJSN, K.WILL, MONSTA X, and CRAVITY, Starship Entertainment has made a name for itself over the last decade—and Starship Entertainment has a history of launching groups through survival shows, notably debuting MONSTA X via “NO.MERCY” in 2014. However, with competition fiercer than ever, they are bringing back the format to ensure NewKids debuts with a loyal fanbase. Survival shows are not just about selecting members; they allow fans to connect with trainees, ensuring strong support from day one.
“Debut’s Plan” begins with 33 trainees, each with varying levels of experience—some have trained at Starship for years, while others are just getting started. Unlike other survival shows that rely solely on fan votes or judges’ decisions, this one combines both. Fans participate in three global voting rounds, while Starship’s expert panel, “THE BOARD,” selects trainees based on performance. If both sides align on the top seven, those members debut immediately. If not, up to 16 contestants advance to a final evaluation before the debut lineup is confirmed.
Shop K-pop Albums & Merch at DKshop!
Explore our extensive collection of K-Pop merch, lightsticks,
and photobooks, and easily shop your favorite albums.
Mentors and Contestants
Beyond competition, “Debut’s Plan” is about growth. Top-tier mentors like vocalists K.Will and WJSN’s Yeonjung, choreographer Choi Youngjoon
and powerful performer MONSTA X’s Shownu will guide the trainees in performance, teamwork, and industry survival, creating invaluable experience even for those who don’t make it to “NewKids.”
The contestant lineup is diverse, featuring Jo Min-jae, the cousin of singer Paul Kim, and Kim Ji-yong, a six-year trainee who once trained alongside CRAVITY. Former SM trainees Kim Min-jae and Kim Yun-seo, along with JYP Entertainment’s ex-trainee Baek Jun-hyuk, add even more depth to the competition.
Buy & Ship K-pop Albums & Merch
Dive into the world of K-pop albums and merch – let us
handle the seamless shipping experience while you
immerse yourself in the music and style!
Promotional Activities and Content
Since announcing the program, Starship Entertainment has gone all out in promoting “Debut’s Plan,” making sure that the trainees get as much visibility as possible. The performance video for the original song, “Balla,” has surpassed 1 million views already, proving the show’s growing popularity. It’s been four years since Starship Entertainment last introduced a boy group, this project aims to introduce NewKids in a fresh and globally engaging way.
Conclusion
At its core, “Debut’s Plan” is more than just a survival show—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of K-Pop stars. With the final lineup still to be decided, one big question remains: Who will rise to the challenge and claim their spot? Are you tuning in and voting? Who are you rooting for?
Need a place to pre-order albums for upcoming comebacks and debuts? Consider using Delivered Korea’s ‘We Buy and Ship’ or ‘You Buy, We Ship’ services or the DKshop.
Sign up & Receive 2 DK Points
Explore our extensive collection of K-Pop merch, lightsticks,
and photobooks, and easily shop your favorite albums.
