KISU Holds Philippine Fan Meeting, “BTS THE NEXT: 9 DREAMERS” Premieres... Growing Demand for K-POP Among Filipinos

K-pop artists are increasingly expanding their presence in the Philippines. Former 24K member and solo singer KISU will visit Manila in February to hold fan meetings and performances. KISU will stage a WISH Bus concert at Riverbanks North Triangle in Marikina at 5:30 p.m. on February 4, followed by fan meetings at various locations across Manila. The fan meetings will take place at Tuna King Japanese Restaurant in San Juan City on February 7, 413 Cafe Giniyu Premium in Valenzuela City on February 8, and Trinoma Mall in Quezon City on February 9. Meanwhile, the K-POP survival show “BTS THE NEXT: 9 DREAMERS” will begin airing in the Philippines through a joint production by TV5 and MLD Entertainment Philippines. The show is scheduled to air starting February 8 at 7:15 p.m. on Saturdays, 8:15 p.m. on Sundays, and 11:30 p.m. on weekdays. Sana Dalra Park of 2NE1 will serve as the host, while Park Woojin of AB6IX, Bang Yedam, Vinssi of HORI7ON, Hyebin former member of Pomelland, Chen of EXO, choreographer Bae Wan-hee, and producer Bullseye will participate as mentors. Seventy-five contestants from around the world will compete for spots in a new nine-member boy group. During a press conference, Sana Dalra Park said, “It’s my first time hosting, so I’m excited yet nervous. It’s a new challenge for me.” She added, “I’ve done acting, stage performances, and musical shows, but this is my first time as the main host.” Meanwhile, as 2NE1’s “Welcome Back Tour” is underway, Sana Dalra Park emphasized the importance of maintaining health while managing her busy schedule. Vinssi, Leader of HORI7ON, said about joining as a mentor, “HORI7ON is a very new group in the industry, so I feel a great sense of responsibility.” He added, “As a young artist, I have insights into how to pursue dreams, and I want to share those with the trainees. I’ll be able to apply my leadership skills to view the trainees as potential group members and figure out how they can perform as a group.” Choreographer Bae Wan-hee said, “Selecting nine members will likely be very difficult. What I look at is how hard they work, their sweat, and how diligent they are—these are my criteria for judgment.”