Survival Shows
Idol survival shows I've watched/want to watch. No particular order.
Rated strictly by enjoyability/entertainment value: I do not factor in rigging or shady editing unless it makes the show unwatchable, bc unfortunately those are par for the course in shows like these.
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1. Boys Planet
Korean TV Show - 2023, 12 episodes
My gold standard for idol survival shows. The cast was talented, funny, and overall entertaining. The relationships built between the contestants were genuine, heartwarming, and heartbreaking. The success of this show and my love for it is a testament to the trainees themselves---Boys Planet captured lightning in a bottle purely by luck. An excellent show, an excellent top 9, and great handful of twists and turns along the way.
Imo this is the only male survival show that comes close to the cultural significance Produce S2 had at the time.
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2. Produce 101
Korean TV Show - 2016, 11 episodes
The blueprint, paved the way, etc etc. PD101 and IOI reshaped kpop as we know it to this day. Choi Yoojung and Kim Doyeon deserved more from the industry fuck you Fantagio forever and ever and ever.
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3. Produce 101 Season 2
Korean TV Show - 2017, 11 episodes
What can even be said. Imo the cultural significance of Broduce will never again be seen in another male idol survival show. I'm def due a rewatch for this one.
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4. Produce 48
Korean TV Show - 2018, 12 episodes
Some incredible standout talent in this one , so much so that they are still rockin' it in the industry today. However, other than the standouts...great gowns, beautiful gowns.
Due a rewatch to make sure my rating is accurate.
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5. Produce X 101
Korean TV Show - 2019, 12 episodes
Mnet when I catch you you're dead. Anyways. I care too much about my own sanity to write another essay about how so many innocent individuals were screwed over by greed and corruption. #JusticeForX1
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6. NCT Universe: Lastart
Korean TV Show - 2023, 8 episodes
This one isn't really a survival show, although it pretends to be. As there is no audience participation, the show functions more as pre-debut PR for NCT WISH. That isn't to say, however, that this isn't a good show. In fact I think it has some of the best survival show performances of all time in it---that Keep Your Head Down cover? EXO's Electric Kiss? Don't even joke lad.
Also, Tokuno Yushi.
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7. Sixteen
Korean TV Show - 2015, 10 episodes
I watched this almost a decade ago with my sister and we enjoyed it immensely, but also I was quite young. I doubt it holds up to time and scrutiny so take this rating with a grain of salt.
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8. Idol Producer
Chinese TV Show - 2018, 12 episodes
watched forever ago but need to rewatch to rate accurately
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9. I-LAND
Korean TV Show - 2020, 12 episodes
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10. &Audition: The Howling
Japanese TV Show - 2022, 8 episodes
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11. Girls Planet 999
Korean TV Show - 2021, 12 episodes
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12. Stray Kids
Korean TV Show - 2017, 10 episodes
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13. NO.MERCY
Korean TV Show - 2014, 10 episodes