K-Pop idol survival competitions are all about finding the next big group of stars to break out into the music industry. Since it’s filled with tons of hardship and many obstacles, these contestants must put on a terrific showing of charisma, skill, and confidence. In many different ways, every single one rises up to the occasion and shows immense promise, worthy of breaking into the final debut lineup. Their hard work and potential cannot be denied as the show’s missions brings out the best of these idol hopefuls.
“PROJECT 7” is one of K-Pop’s newest survival programs and has already introduced a number of talented contestants through three different missions, or “Projects”. Just up ahead is the first round of eliminations which everyone is nervously excited for. Although it’s a nerve-wracking time, it’s a process that contestants must go through in order to reach the final debut lineup. There have already been standouts in every category, as well as dark horses who could upset the rankings.
Here’s 7 contestants who we think could top the rankings heading into the first round of eliminations.
Note: this ranking is not official and takes into account previously revealed rankings.
Jeon MinWook
Jeon MinWook, or also widely known as BAE173’s J-Min, has been stealing hearts left and right on the competition program. Not only does he come with a touching backstory, featuring his fellow group members, but he also has the skills to back it up. Since the first rankings were revealed, he’s been firmly ranked at the top. With the addition of the points he earned as MVP, it wouldn’t be too strange for MinWook to top the rankings for the third time in a row.
Sakurada Kenshin
Avid viewers will all have learned about Sakurada Kenshin. Even casual viewers waiting for the final will be familiar with him, too; especially due to the fact that he became the center of the show’s signal song, ‘RUN (Up to you)’. His vibrant innocence, boyish charms, and tireless efforts have been noticed by thousands. Seeing his consistent no. 2 ranking, who’s to say he can’t do it a third time around.
Kim SiHun
For longtime fans and viewers of idol competition programs, they know that rankings could change in an instant. However, in the case of “PROJECT 7”, the top 3 has remained the same until now, with Kim SiHun holding onto his no. 3 spot. There’s no telling what the future holds, but with what he has shown so far, there’s high chance that even if SiHun falls from the top 3, he’ll still be included in the top 7 regardless.
Fong Atilla
Although he started lower in the rankings, Fong Atilla was able to make an enormous leap into the upper half of the standings. He was immediately recognized for his sweet charms and potential to become part of the dance line for the future group. While jumps in ranking should be taken with a grain of salt, with what trends are showing, Fong Atilla could surprise us all and enter into the top 7.
Kang HyunWoo
Having had prior survival show experience through “LOUD” and “Fantasy Boys“, many are familiar with Kang HyunWoo and his skillset. He’s an absolute ace which viewers widely recognize. Through this support and his innate abilities, it wouldn’t be too surprising to find Kang HyunWoo among the top 7 during the first elimination round.
Ma JingXiang
Previously, Ma JingXiang participated in the widely popular “Boys Planet” that helped form world renowned idol group, ZEROBASEONE. Despite not making the final lineup there, Ma JingXiang didn’t give up on his K-Pop dreams and has been crushing it in “PROJECT 7”. He’s been consistently ranked within the top 7 so far and it might be safe to say he’ll do it again. He’s certainly improved since his time on “Boys Planet”, and seeing this netizens definitely feel compelled to vote for the idol hopeful.
Kim SungMin
There’s a magical aura that surrounds Kim SungMin that viewers just cannot deny. Even with a small part he’s able to shine and captivate the audience in front of him. Then there’s his proven capabilities as a leader that cannot be overlooked, which would make him an essential part of the future idol group. With all of this combined, there’s a chance he’ll make it into the top 7 during the first elimination round.
Special Mentions
Park JunSeo & Yoo YoungSeo
It feels appropriate to mention both Park JunSeo and Yoo YoungSeo, Jeon MinWook’s fellow BAE173 members. During the last mission, these two were also able to earn the MVP vote and received additional points that could tip the scales in their favor. In addition to the support of their fans, they could also enter the top 7 and change the rankings completely.
Although some trends and consistencies have already appeared among the current rankings, they are constantly changing, keeping everyone on their toes. The first elimination round is right around the corner and everyone is curious who will make the coveted top 7.
Are you currently watching “PROJECT 7”? Which trainee are you voting for?