BAE173's Hangyul is once again participating in a survival program for the fourth time.
Hangyul, born in 1999 and currently 24 years old, previously stated that his appearance on 'Peak Time' last year would be his final survival show, yet he finds himself competing again.
BAE173's Hangyul had already appeared on KBS2's 'The Unit' in 2017, Mnet's 'Produce X 101' in 2019, and JTBC's 'Peak Time' in 2023. Not only did he appear in three survival programs so far, but Hangyul also made multiple debuts with different groups including IM, X1, H&D, and BAE173.
Now, Hangyul is lined up to participate in the survival show 'Starlight Boys,' which is a joint venture between Korea and China.
Fans and Korean netizens have voiced concerns over Hangyul's participation in a survival show for the fourth time, pointing out that despite his undeniable talent, he has yet to gain the recognition he deserves. Many are expressing frustration toward PocketDol Studio founder Kim Kwang Soo, accusing him of wasting Hangyul's potential by failing to properly promote both him and his group, BAE173.
Korean netizens and fans commented:
"He’s so talented and has great visuals, it’s really heartbreaking..."
"Oh my... seriously..."
"Are they trying to wear him out and exhaust him?"
"Kwang Soo’s group split into two, with some members in this survival show and others in Project 7. It’s really malicious."
"He’s already somewhat known, so why only survival shows?"
"The agency is being too harsh."
"I really hope Hangyul succeeds this time."
"When does his contract with Kwang Soo’s company end? If he’s in another survival show, I’ll vote for him."
"If they want to push him, wouldn’t it be better to move him towards acting now? Why do they keep sending him to idol survival shows?"
"It’s truly absurd that someone like Kwang Soo, who should have disappeared from this industry long ago, is still around."
"Even his profile picture doesn’t look bright and hopeful anymore. It looks lonely, and he seems so gaunt... sigh."
"Again???? This is seriously ridiculous. Crazy Kwang Soo."
"Look how thin he is... I really hope Hangyul makes it this time."
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