K-Pop icon Sandara Park promises to be an ‘Ate’ to showbiz aspirants in ‘Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers’
The stage is set, the lights are bright, and 75 hopefuls stand ready to chase their K-Pop dreams. TV5 is launching a new reality show, “Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers,” in partnership with MLD Entertainment PH. The show is a grueling, intense journey where only the strongest will survive. Premiering on February 8, the show promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, fierce competition, and ultimately, the birth of a new 9-member boy group.

A Star-Studded Launch
The show kicked off with a media launch at Novotel in Quezon City on January 20. K-Pop icon Sandara Park of 2NE1 fame and the Philippines’ Star Circle Quest grand winner will be the main host, bringing her years of experience and infectious energy to the show. But more than just a host, Sandara promises to be a source of support for the contestants. “I’m not a mentor,” she explained, “but as a host I will look at the dreamers as a fan. I won’t give them advice, but I’ll be a good Ate to them!”


This familial atmosphere is further strengthened by a powerful lineup of mentors ready to guide these dreamers: AB6IX’s Park Woojin, Bang Ye-dam, HORI7ON’s Vinci, Hyebin (MOMOLAND), choreographer Bae Wan Hee, and producer Bullseye.

Mentors with a Keen Eye for Talent
This blend of K-Pop idols, industry veterans, and fresh faces guarantees a diverse range of expertise for the contestants. Vinci, the youngest mentor and part of the Filipino group HORI7ON, is looking for contestants with fire in their eyes. “I think those with confidence, whose passion shows through their performances, are the ones I will look out for in the contest,” he shared. “As a young artist myself, I have the insight to how to navigate towards their dreams.”
Park Woojin, who knows firsthand the challenges of the K-Pop world, aims to be a pillar of support. “I can share my experiences with them on how I survived those difficult times so that it may also help them to push through,” he said.
Hyebin, who found success through a similar survival show, wants to be the mentor she wished she had. “I want to be a mentor who would recognize their talents and what they have within them,” she explained. “I want them to work hard and be sincere.”

75 Dreamers, One Goal
These 75 aspirants aren’t just your average contestants. They have battled their way through global auditions held throughout 2024, proving their talent and determination. Each dreamer brings a unique story and skillset to the table, making the competition even fiercer. The media launch gave a sneak peek at these hopefuls in a “Parade of Trainees,” a first look at the faces that could become the next K-Pop sensation.

A Journey of Transformation
“Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers” is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of transformation. These dreamers will be pushed to their limits, facing challenges that will test their talent, resilience, and teamwork. With the guidance of their mentors and the support of their “ate” Sandara, they’ll hone their skills, refine their performances, and ultimately, strive to become global idols.
The show will air on Saturdays at 7:15 PM and Sundays at 8:15 PM, with weekday catch-ups every 11:30 PM, starting February 8. Get ready to witness the birth of a new K-Pop phenomenon via TV5.