Despite established career as idols, these seven stars decided to join Korean survival shows in the hope of debuting for the second time.
In K-pop, various survival audition programs like Mnet's "Produce 101" are broadcast in search of a new project idol group. Popular groups, such as I.O.I, Wanna One, IZ*ONE and more, were born through these shows.
In most cases, most participants joining survival shows are trainees who dream of finally debuting as idols. But in some instances, even K-pop idols try their luck once again through reality shows after not seeing the "limelight" after their debut.
Here Are 7 Idols Who Gained Popularity and Re-Debuted After Winning Survival Shows:
1. DIA Chaeyeon
In 2015, Jung Chaeyeon began her career as a member of DIA. Just a year after her debut, she joined Mnet's "Produce 101" amid group activities and due to her visual and skills, and she successfully finished as No. 7.
In 2016, Chaeyeon's fame increased after debuting with I.O.I.
After disbandment the following year, she went back to DIA, then pursued her career as an actress.
2. NU'EST Minhyun
Minhyun initially debuted in 2012 as NU'EST under Pledis Entertainment. After five years of activity, Minhyun and other members shocked viewers after their appearance in Mnet's "Produce 101" Season 2 as contestants – then revealing that it is their last chance to revive their career before disbandment.
ALSO READ: 5 Survival Show Contestants Who Failed to Join Final Lineup Despite Popularity, Skills - Where Are They Now?
Fortunately, the members' popularity increased during the show, Minhyun joining the group Wanna One as 11th member in 2017.
After Wanna One parted ways, NU'EST continued their career as a group until they decided to disband in March 2022.
3. Kwon Eun Bi
Now a soloist, Eun Bi actually debuted twice in a group before through Ye-A and IZ*ONE.
After being a backup dancer to Secret and Girls' Day, she finally debuted in Ye-A under her stage name Kazoo in 2014.
In 2015, she left the group and pursued idol career by joining Mnet's "Produce 48." She successfully debuted as a member and leader of "Nation's Pick" IZ*ONE in 2018.
4. Miyawaki Sakura
Sakura, prior to becoming a K-pop idol, is a well-known Japanese idol under the global group, AKB48. She initially debuted in 2011 as HKT48, later on joining AKB48 as center.
After she joined, "Produce 48" she debuted as IZ*ONE. After disbandment, HYBE confirmed that the idol is currently preparing for her third debut under a new group this 2022.
5. Hitomi Honda
Hitomi is also a successful Japanese idol and member of AKB48 Team 8. Along with Sakura, she established her fan base in Korea after joining "Produce 48" and was able to debut through IZ*ONE.
After completing activities with IZ*ONE, unlike Sakura, she returned to Japan and continued her career in AKB48.
6. Kep1er Choi Yujin
Amid initial popularity as CLC, Choi Yujin surprised K-pop fans when she joined Mnet's "Planet Girls 999," even confessing their unofficial disbandment.
With her refreshing charm and skills different from when she is in CLC, Yujin attracted more fans and debuted as the leader of Kep1er.
7. Kep1er Kang Yeseo
Yeseo first debuted in 2019 as a Busters member. However, due to her young age, the idol has to leave the group due to unpleasant incidents with extreme fans.
In 2021, Yeseo debuted as the maknae of rookie girl group Kep1er.
READ MORE: Kep1er Choi Yujin Net Worth — How Rich is the ‘HELICOPTER’ Songstress?
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Written by Eunice Dawson
