Mnet's 'Hip Pop Princess' Unveils New Global Hip Pop Group 'H//PE Princess'

Mnet's 'Hip Pop Princess' has given birth to a new seven-member global hip pop group, 'H//PE Princess' (abbreviated as H//PE P). Known for its legendary audition programs, Mnet has produced numerous iconic shows. The boy group ZEROBASEONE, formed through the 2023 show 'Boys Planet,' recently announced a two-month extension of their contract.

On Thursday, the final live broadcast of Mnet's Korea-Japan joint project 'Unpretty Rapstar: Hip Pop Princess' (hereafter 'Hip Pop Princess') revealed the members of the new global hip pop group set to debut simultaneously in Korea and Japan in the first half of 2026. The final members of H//PE Princess, chosen by global fans, are Kim Doi, Kim Sujin, Koko, Nam Yuju, Niko, Rino, and Yun Seoyoung (in alphabetical order).

The opening group stage, 'Do my thang (Princess Ver.),' featured 16 finalists divided into three units, showcasing different concepts with performances like 'SPEAK UP,' 'Bless U,' and 'gOOd!'. Kim Sujin, Min Jiho, and Koko were chosen for solo intro segments, delivering powerful rap and performances that captivated the audience. Contestants demonstrated their self-producing skills, creating legendary stages and ending with a grand finale that highlighted their unique identities.

Along with the final debut members, the official group name was also unveiled. The members Kim Doi, Kim Sujin, Koko, Nam Yuju, Niko, Rino, and Yun Seoyoung will debut under the name 'H//PE Princess,' embodying their ambition to become the No.1 hip pop artist group that excites the world. 'H//PE Princess' is set to debut in Korea and Japan in 2026, aiming to expand their presence beyond Asia to the global stage. Nam Yuju, who secured the top debut spot, expressed gratitude on behalf of the team, stating, "Though this marks the end of our journey, H//PE Princess will continue to prove ourselves. Please support us."

Premiering on October 16, 'Hip Pop Princess' has left a significant mark over the past 10 weeks, transcending a mere survival show to pave the way for a new global hip pop group. Participants actively engaged in all creative processes, including music, choreography, styling, and video production, showcasing their talents. The show, inheriting the DNA of 'Unpretty Rapstar,' featured stages that highlighted the contestants' skills amidst track competitions.

Despite starting from different languages and cultures, the Korean and Japanese participants gradually completed musical synergy through collaboration, creating a touching growth narrative with shared goals and cross-border friendships. Although 'Hip Pop Princess' has concluded, the newly formed H//PE Princess is set to represent the voices of Korea and Japan as a global hip pop group. With enthusiastic support for the debut members, all eyes are on their future endeavors.

Lee Sojung, TENASIA Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr