B:MY BOYZ Begins with Explosive Performances
The wait is over—SBS’s global boy group audition program ‘B:MY BOYZ’ premiered on June 21, unleashing stunning performances and a dazzling opening stage with none other than K-pop heavyweight NCT.
MCs, Trainees, and Fandom Kick Off the Journey
With (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon and TV personality Dex as the show’s MCs, the debut episode gave viewers a first look at the show’s “B:GINNERs” (contestants) and their fanbase known as “B:inUS.” The MCs introduced the contest with the line, “The world shines on someone’s dream—now is the time for those voices to reach you.”
Meet the B:GINNERs
The contestants gathered at the filming site after receiving mysterious invitations. First to arrive was Kai, who said, “The space fits the vibe I imagined—exciting and nerve-racking.” He was soon joined by Jang Won, a model and military service completer, followed by the charming Ai, the show’s youngest hopeful Ban Daniel (14), and the striking Kang Junseong. Friendly greetings among them set the stage for what’s to come.
Unexpected Missions and Instant Performances
The B:GINNERs were hit with a surprise when the photo wall opened and an unexpected mission was announced. Without time to hesitate, they launched into an impromptu performance to RIIZE’s “Get A Guitar”. As masters watched eagerly, they emphasized, “Enjoying the stage is more important than perfect moves.”
First Rankings Stir Excitement and Tension
Using live audience votes, contestant Kai claimed first place, joined by Kang Junseong, Moon Jaeil, and Lee Yunseong in the Top 4. Meanwhile, others like Haruto and Li Zhiwei experienced bittersweet near-misses. The top-ranking trainees were given the advantage of choosing their team members and songs first.
NCT Joins as Mentors and Judges
The show’s first clash saw trainees working with NCT members Johnny, Jungwoo, Ten, and Xiaojun. Their challenge: conquer NCT’s own songs. The idols selected a “TOP PICK” team—the full team advanced, and individual top picks from other teams also made it through, regardless of their team performance. Ten noted, “I’m curious how you’ll make our songs your own.”
Standout Stages: From Hip-Hop Power to Charisma
Team 1, led by Lee Junmyung, took on “Baggy Jeans” with a hip-hop vibe. Initially critiqued for weak vocals during rehearsals, they bounced back for the final stage, incorporating self-choreographed moves. Johnny praised, “Your sincerity was visible, especially in the choreographed parts.” Xiaojun’s honest advice: “Work more on vocals for a difficult song like this.”
Team 2, dubbed the “charisma team,” tackled the complex “Fact Check (不可思議)”. Formed by Kai, the team displayed sharp focus and chemistry, even studying live NCT performances as training. Judge Xiaojun declared, “As expected, charisma team!” while Johnny said, “You presented an interpretation that showed a different flavor from NCT 127.”
What’s Next for B:GINNERs?
The first broadcast of ‘B:MY BOYZ’ marked a promising start, thanks to high-level performances and warm, honest feedback from NCT. The excitement only grows as contestants prepare for new stages: power anthem “Kick It”, nostalgic “90’s Love”, and sultry “Love Talk.”
‘B:MY BOYZ’ airs every Saturday at 5:20 PM KST on SBS, and is available on global platforms including Netflix, AbemaTV, WeTV, and Rakuten Viki.
