Next-gen K-pop idols look up to BTS: 'BOYS II PLANET' contestants pick Jungkook, V, RM, J-Hope and Jimin as role models
Currently trending on social media is the form the trainees of Mnet's 'BOYS II PLANET' filled out to share more about themselves. One standout question on the questionnaire asked: Who is your role model?
Mnet's upcoming survival show BOYS II PLANET has unveiled its full lineup of 154 contestants. As the sequel to the hit show BOYS PLANET, which formed ZEROBASEONE, the new season aims to debut a global K-pop boy group with fans participating in the production process. The trainees are divided into two units: 80 in the Korean (K) group and 74 in the international (C) group, following six withdrawals.
To build anticipation, Mnet released performance clips of both groups dancing to HOLA SOLAR ！ a vibrant track that reflects the passion and dreams of the contestants. The song sets the tone for the show's concept and storyline, offering fans an exciting preview of what's to come.
BTS named top role models by trainees
Currently trending on social media is a form the trainees filled out to share more about themselves. One standout question on the questionnaire asked: Who is your role model?
Unsurprisingly, BTS topped the list. Jungkook led with 17 trainees naming him as their biggest inspiration, followed closely by V aka Kim Taehyung. Jimin, RM, and J-Hope also received multiple mentions, highlighting BTS' strong influence on the next generation of idols.
Some BOYS II PLANET contestant reveals that their role model are BTS members.
！ ryn | D-8 (@singularyv) June 12, 2025
CHO MYEONG SU (K) : Jungkook
HSU CHING YU (K) : j-hope
KANG WOO JIN (K) : Jungkook
KIM DONG YUN (K) : V pic.twitter.com/LtAWbfzXpx
This outpouring of admiration highlights BTS' profound and lasting influence on K-pop. As they celebrate their 12th anniversary today (June 13), it's evident that their legacy continues to inspire and shape the goals of rising idols across the industry.
Some BOYS II PLANET contestant reveals that their role model are BTS members.
！ ryn | D-8 (@singularyv) June 12, 2025
KIM MIN JUN (K) : V
LEE SEUNG BAEK (K) : Jungkook
NA YUN SEO (K) : BTS
OH JUN HO : Jungkook#????? #???2??? pic.twitter.com/CwKzooRi3Q
Some BOYS II PLANET contestant reveals that their role model are BTS members.
！ ryn | D-8 (@singularyv) June 12, 2025
CHEN JIN XIN (C) : Jungkook (Another one, thank you)
CHEN ZI SHUO (C) : j-hope
HE XIN LONG (C) : Jungkook
LIN CHING EN (C) : V #????? #???2??? pic.twitter.com/xVPF7D55LQ
Some BOYS II PLANET contestant reveals that their role model are BTS members.
！ ryn | D-8 (@singularyv) June 12, 2025
YI CHEN (C) : V
ZHANG YU XY (C) : Jungkook #????? #???2??? pic.twitter.com/vgKhocvhGU
New format for BOYS II PLANET
Initially planned as two separate shows ！ BOYS II PLANET K and BOYS II PLANET C ！ each aimed at debuting its own boy group, the show has since changed course.
Mnet has confirmed that while both sides will start independently, their narratives will merge mid-season. Ultimately, only one elite group will debut, intensifying the stakes for participants and fans alike.
For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Karen Noronha is a versatile journalist with a passion for sports and K-pop. With over 7 years of experience at publications like IBTimes UK, DNA, and OTTPlay/DesiMartini, she seamlessly transitions between covering global athletic events and the dynamic world of K-pop.
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