A wave of experienced idols has paused their group activities to compete on Mnet’s survival show 'Boys Planet 2', aiming to relaunch their careers through global exposure.

'Boys Planet 2' is a debut project designed to create the next top K-pop boy group. Trainees from the K and C teams undergo intense evaluations before coming together as one final lineup. The first season of 'Boys Planet' gave rise to ZEROBASEONE, a group that quickly achieved massive success with five consecutive million-selling albums and strong global fan support.

With the show’s second season underway, many active idols have announced sudden hiatuses—now believed to be linked to their participation in the program. These decisions have sparked speculation but are now seen as strategic moves to raise both individual and group recognition.

On April 30, WHIB members Jayder, Leejeong, and Wonjun paused their activities. Their agency, C-JeS Studio, stated that WHIB would continue promotions as a five-member team for now.

More announcements followed on May 9. Heechan and Harry June of DKB, Dongheon, Gyehyeon, and Kangmin of VERIVERY, and Kim Junseo of WEi also suspended their team schedules due to personal matters or unspecified solo activities.

Industry insiders see this shift as a strategic advantage. “Audition programs are powered by global fan votes, so idols with an existing fanbase could gain a significant edge,” one source said. “Given ZEROBASEONE’s success, there’s high anticipation for the next group.”

Another expert noted, “For artists from smaller agencies, this is a rare chance to reboot. Making it into the final lineup—or even ranking high—can significantly boost visibility and fandom.”

However, not everyone sees it positively. One insider cautioned, “Members who don’t join the program may feel left behind or miss out on exposure. Agencies need to ensure those members have solo activity opportunities.”

With high expectations and intense competition ahead, fans are watching to see whether these experienced idols can turn their second chance into a breakthrough.

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