Kim Gun-woo Shines as 'All-Star' in 'Boys 2 Planet K' Amidst Controversy

Kim Gun-woo, the center of 'Boys 2 Planet K,' received an 'All-Star' rating during the show's premiere, earning praise from the masters. Previously chosen as the center for the signal song, Kim has been seen as a promising next-generation star, following in the footsteps of Sung Han-bin, who successfully debuted after a long trainee period.

The first episode of Mnet's survival program 'Boys 2 Planet' aired on the 17th, featuring a competition between the K-group and C-group. Only those who prove their worth can participate in the official debut survival. The episode showcased the K-group trainees' rank determination battle, with ranks divided into 'All-Star,' 'Two-Star,' and 'One-Star.' The lowest rank after each mission faces elimination. Team performances determine ranks, and those deemed below standard by the masters receive a 'No-Star' rating, resulting in immediate elimination.

During the participants' first meeting, Kim Gun-woo's appearance drew admiration from fellow trainees. His impressive height and striking looks prompted reactions like, "He looked so handsome walking from afar," and "He seemed like he stepped out of a comic book." Kim, participating as an independent contestant from Jeonju, has a background of training with Source Music, Cube, and Bill Entertainment. Before his rank determination stage, he expressed his determination, saying, "I will do my best every moment as I am desperate to debut." Vocal master Lee Seok-hoon commented, "His tone and gaze remind me of a school president."

When vocal master Hyolyn asked about his long trainee period, Kim revealed, "I was close to debuting and even filmed shows, thinking I would finally debut, but I kept failing at the last moment, making me question if this was my path." He added, "I came here with no place to retreat or escape, considering 'Boys Planet' my last chance."

Dance master Kinki asked what he wanted to hear most after his performance, to which Kim replied, "I want to hear, 'Where have you been all this time?' I want to show everything I've prepared without regrets and start anew." Kim performed ZeroBaseOne's 'SWEAT,' earning praise from vocal master Lim Han-byul, who said, "Where have you been all this time?"

Lim Han-byul noted, "His live performance was stable, showing signs of long practice," but also pointed out, "His demeanor on stage reflects the desperation seen in long-time trainees, which can sometimes overshadow the vibrant charm of other contestants." Kim was surprised by the feedback, saying, "I was shocked to hear I looked desperate on stage."

Despite this, he received an 'All-Star' rating, with Lim Han-byul adding, "There was much discussion among the masters, and we hope this will be an opportunity for him to reflect on himself in future performances." Kim expressed his feelings, saying, "This challenge was a result of great courage for me, and I'm happy to have started well, gaining confidence that I am still valuable."

Meanwhile, ahead of the first broadcast, Kim Gun-woo faced a character controversy. An exposer posted a lengthy message on social media, stating, "I want to reveal the character and reality of Kim Gun-woo, known as the K-group center." The exposer claimed that during his time as a trainee at Company B, Kim allegedly bullied staff and trainees, backed by favoritism from high-ranking executives. The exposer reported that some trainees suffered from panic disorder, depression, and anxiety, requiring psychiatric treatment. Some trainees reportedly left the company, paying penalties, and the exposer shared their own psychiatric treatment records. Evidence included Company B envelopes, parts of trainee contracts, and messages related to Kim's appearances.

As the controversy grew, Mnet stated, "We recognize the seriousness of this issue and are verifying the facts of the allegations raised on social media. We are conducting a thorough investigation with the exposer, mentioned individuals, former Company B officials, and related parties, while also reviewing legal issues."

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr