‘Road to Kingdom’ returns after 4 years, promising an intense boy group competition.

Mnet’s survival show ‘Road to Kingdom’ is set to return, sparking anticipation for another fierce battle among boy groups after more than four years. The show, which first aired in 2020, highlighted talented groups like ONF and The Boyz, boosting their potential and setting the stage for their future growth. The Boyz, in particular, secured the win in season one, going on to solidify their position in the K-pop industry as a leading group, and have since maintained an active presence. Given this success, the upcoming launch of ‘Road to Kingdom: Ace of Ace’ is drawing attention both inside and outside the K-pop world.

‘Road to Kingdom: Ace of Ace’ is described as a renewed version of the first season. Unlike the previous format, which served as a prelude to ‘Kingdom’ and offered winning groups the chance to participate in the follow-up show, this season will focus on reevaluating boy groups with significant talent and potential. The show is being promoted as a “K-pop boy group rising project” aimed at putting the spotlight on groups deserving of more recognition.

With this overhaul comes a fresh format. According to teaser videos, ‘Road to Kingdom: Ace of Ace’ will run on two parallel tracks, spotlighting both “ace rankings” for individual members and “team rankings” for entire groups. The program will not only feature impressive group performances but also emphasize individual talents within each group. To complement the fierce competition, there will be enhanced reality-show elements aimed at highlighting the contestants’ hidden charms.

The cast lineup is also drawing attention. Perhaps most notable is ONEUS, who competed in the 2020 season of ‘Road to Kingdom’ and wowed audiences with elaborate performances, including stages filled with grandeur and uniquely Korean elements. Despite their strong performance, ONEUS has decided to make the bold decision to re-enter the competition after four years. Member Seoho shared, “We gained attention after ‘Road to Kingdom’, but we haven’t been able to achieve results since then. We’re even more desperate now, and we’ll give everything to protect ONEUS.”

Other participants include Tempest, YOUNITE, TNX, E’LAST, and ATBO, as well as JUST B and CRAVITY. These groups, though recognized for their potential, have yet to fully break out in the competitive K-pop industry. With a mix of rookie and more seasoned groups, ranging from 1 to 5 years of experience, expectations are high for top-tier performances. YOUNITE’s Lee Eunsang shared, “I’m prepared to work until I drop,” while Tempest’s LEW added, “We want to show something unexpected.”

Many of the participants in ‘Road to Kingdom: Ace of Ace’ find themselves at a critical juncture in their careers. Facing the intensely competitive K-pop scene, these groups view the show as an opportunity to reignite their momentum. The stakes are high, and fans are eager to see which groups will rise to the top in this new season of ‘Road to Kingdom’.

‘Road to Kingdom: Ace of Ace’ will premiere on September 19th at 9:30 PM KST.

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