First North Korean survival show trainee

 On May 15, the first episode of the new survival show Make Mate 1 aired. The survival show is a collaboration between MAKESTAR and KBS, seeking to debut a next-generation global idol group.

The show is hosted by EXO‘s Xiumin and features industry judges like MAMAMOO‘s Solar.

While many of the trainees have experience in the industry, having competed in other survival shows previously, one trainee stood out before his identity was even known.

Before the show began, the inclusion of a North Korean trainee attracted attention to the show.

Trainee Kim Hakseong was born in 2004, making him 19 or 20.

He mentions that telling his story was stressful, but felt that if he didn’t face it, he would “run away again.” He appeared to get a little choked up talking about his history.

The judges and other contestants were moved and impressed by his determination, especially by his answer for what his goal was. 

Kim Hakseong stated that he wanted to give hope to people who are in difficult situations where they can’t pursue their dreams.