HYBE Latin America Launches New Reality Series to Discover Boy Bands

K-POP’s major entertainment company HYBE has expanded its operations into the Latin American market. Its subsidiary, HYBE Latin America, began producing a reality series in Mexico City aimed at discovering new all-boy pop groups, as reported exclusively by Billboard. The production team is training 16 contestants selected from various countries including Mexico, Brazil, the United States, Peru, and Spain, with plans to narrow down the roster to five final members by the end of this autumn season. This initiative represents HYBE’s first large-scale project focused on identifying Latin talent by combining its existing expertise in developing K-POP artists with Latin cultural and artistic sensibilities. The format of this project differs from traditional reality competitions. Instead of weekly broadcasts, it delivers multi-platform content featuring serialized storytelling, performance videos, and behind-the-scenes footage across streaming services, social media, and music platforms. The lineup of mentors is also unprecedented in Latin reality shows. Kenny Ortega, director and choreographer of films such as “High School Musical” and “Descendants,” serves as the executive producer. Cham Laddona, the dance director who worked on Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl performance, acts as the chief choreographer. Robert J. Stevenson, who has collaborated with Rihanna, serves as the lead vocal coach. J.H. Khan, CEO of HYBE Latin America, stated, “This project goes beyond music. It aims to redefine how Latin talent is discovered, developed, and brought to the global stage.” He added, “We are laying the foundation for the next generation of global Latin artists using the highest standards of creativity and production quality.” The 16 contestants will officially join forces in Mexico starting May 12. After months of pre-production, hundreds of applications were received across Latin America and the United States, and 16 were selected from a total of 300 finalists. They will undergo intensive training at a custom-built “bootcamp” located in Parque Vicente Guerrero in Mexico City.