9 Best Kpop Groups Born from Survival Shows: ENHYPEN, TWICE and More

The world of Kpop is full of glitz, glamour, and talent, but behind every successful idol group, there’s a rigorous journey, often through intense survival shows. Best Kpop groups Kpop Groups born from survival shows push aspiring idols to their limits as they compete fiercely to earn a coveted spot in the debut lineup. These high-stakes reality programs push aspiring idols to their limits as they compete fiercely to earn a coveted spot in the debut lineup. While some groups are formed through years of traditional training, others rise from the pressure cooker of survival shows, where every performance could be their last shot at stardom.

These survival shows have given us some of the biggest K-pop groups we know and love today. Whether you’re a fan of heart-fluttering girl groups or powerhouse boy bands, these groups formed from survival shows prove that the journey to the top is just as exciting as the destination.

(Trying not to tear up while thinking of their debuts!) Let’s take a look at some of the best Kpop groups formed through survival shows and how they’ve gone on to conquer the world with their undeniable talent and charm.

Best Kpop Groups Born from Survival Shows

TWICE

When it comes to survival shows, TWICE is an absolute legend. JYP Entertainment’s SIXTEEN brought together 16 trainees who competed for a spot in the final lineup, and the resulting girl group, TWICE, was born in 2015. The journey was full of twists, from heart-wrenching eliminations to surprising comebacks for certain members.

Since their debut, TWICE has become one of the most iconic and beloved girl groups in Kpop history. With hits like Cheer Up, TT, Fancy, Alcohol-Free, Set Me Free and others. They’ve consistently delivered chart-toppers. Their accomplishments are nothing short of legendary, from winning “Song of the Year” at major award shows to achieving global fame with sold-out tours and millions of album sales. This groups fun, vibrant style has cemented them as queens of K-pop, and their journey from SIXTEEN to superstardom is nothing short of inspirational.

Stray Kids

Stray Kids was born from their self-titled survival show Stray Kids, produced by JYP Entertainment in 2017. Unlike typical elimination-based shows, Stray Kids focused on teamwork and the idea of debuting together as a complete group. Their fierce determination to debut as a united group resonated deeply with fans, and all nine members made it through to the final lineup.

Stray Kids have since become one of the leaders of the fourth generation of K-pop. Known for self-producing their music, with hits like God’s Menu, Thunderous, or their recent release Chk Chk Boom they’ve earned accolades and a dedicated global fanbase. They’ve proven that their unique blend of music, powerful performances, and teamwork set them apart in the competitive K-pop industry.

TREASURE

TREASURE was formed in 2019 through YG Entertainment’s survival show YG Treasure Box. With 29 trainees competing for a spot in the group, the process was filled with intense competition and emotional eliminations. In the end, they debuted with 12 members, each bringing something special to the table.

Their debut single Boy marked the beginning of their journey as one of the hottest rising stars in K-pop. Since then, TREASURE has continued to release chart-topping hits, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. Their unique blend of fresh, youthful energy and YG’s signature style has earned them a strong presence in the global K-pop scene.

ENHYPEN

ENHYPEN came to life through I-LAND, a joint project between HYBE and CJ ENM in 2020. The survival show featured intense competition, dramatic eliminations, and a futuristic concept where the contestants lived and trained in isolation. In the end, seven trainees made it.

ENHYPEN’s debut was met with massive anticipation, and they didn’t disappoint. Their mini-album BORDER: DAY ONE shattered records for the highest-selling Kpop debut, and the group has since gained global recognition. Known for their powerful performances and intricate choreography, this group continues to rise as one of the most promising groups in K-pop today.

WINNER

WINNER made their debut after competing on YG Entertainment’s survival show WIN: Who is Next? in 2013. The show pitted two teams of trainees, Team A and Team B, against each other, with the winning team earning the chance to debut. Team A ultimately triumphed.

WINNER has since become one of YG’s most successful groups, known for their emotive music and smooth vocals. Hits like Really Really and Empty have earned them praise for their unique sound, blending pop with R&B and hip-hop. Their ability to create songs that resonate emotionally with fans has cemented their place as one of Kpop’s most beloved boy bands.

iKON

iKON also got their start on WIN: Who is Next?, but unlike WINNER, they were originally known as Team B, the team that didn’t win. But they didn’t give up. In 2014, YG Entertainment gave them another shot with the survival show MIX & MATCH, which determined their final lineup.

iKON debuted with a bang, releasing their hit song My Type, which immediately topped the charts. Known for their raw, powerful performances, and emotionally charged tracks like Love Scenario, iKON has carved out a distinct space for themselves in K-pop. Their perseverance in the face of adversity has made their success all the more satisfying for fans who followed their journey from the beginning.

Monsta X

Monsta X was formed through the survival show No.Mercy, a collaboration between Starship Entertainment and Mnet. The show was intense, with trainees facing elimination challenges week after week. The final seven members who debuted as the group had to prove not only their talent but their ability to handle tough competition.

Monsta X has since become known for their bold, hard-hitting sound and their versatility in blending different genres like hip-hop, pop, and EDM. Songs like Shoot Out and Love Killa have cemented them as one of K-pop’s most powerful and exciting groups. They’ve gained international recognition, performing at major global events and building a massive global fanbase.

ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE is one of the newest groups on this list, formed in 2023 through the survival show Boys Planet. Despite being rookies, they have already shown incredible promise and captured the hearts of fans with their debut. Their standout track New Kidz on the Block from their debut album showcased their talent and confidence, setting the tone for what this group could achieve.

Their recent release, Road Movie, from their album, further solidified their position in the -pop scene. The song’s nostalgic vibes and emotional lyrics have resonated with fans, proving that this group is not just a flash in the pan but a group with depth and versatility.