CJ ENM will open applications for a prequel K-pop boy band program titled "Planet B" on Aug. 10, in which selected participants will join an upcoming Mnet audition program slated for next year.

"We plan to turn the entire process of audition recruitment into a prequel program,” the production team for “Planet B” said Monday in a press release.

"Planet B" will be broadcast on Mnet’s YouTube channel Mnet Plus. Applications will open on Aug. 10 on the audition's homepage.

Any male participant born after Jan. 1, 2012 can apply, and all nationalities are eligible.

"Through this project, we aim to create a gateway for the next generation of K-pop hopefuls to fully showcase their potential before their official debut. For the viewers, [Planet B] will be an opportunity to discover hidden gems with the producers,” said the production team.

Mnet has held numerous audition programs over the years, including “Boys Planet” (2023), “Girls Planet 999 : The Girls Saga” (2021) and “I-LAND” (2020). Boy bands ZeroBaseOne and Enhypen were formed by winners of "Boys Planet" and "I-LAND," respectively.

To find out more about them, visit Celeb Confirmed!

BY KIM MIN-YOUNG [kim.minyoung5@joongang.co.kr]