Did ONF Gain Popularity from Road to Kingdom?
On August 28, 2020, the Korean entertainment landscape witnessed a significant shift in popularity for several boy bands, including ONF and ONEUS. This shift is notably linked to their participation in Road to Kingdom (RTK), a popular talent discovery show on Mnet. The performances of the boy bands in this show have been quite impressive, highlighting a pivotal moment in their careers.
The Impact of RTK on Popularity
Following their performance on Road to Kingdom, ONF gained a substantial increase in popularity. This surge in popularity is not just a short-term boost; it has also strengthened their brand reputation. In July 2020, ONF's brand reputation reached its highest level for the month, marking a significant milestone in their evolution as a group.
It is widely believed that participating in Road to Kingdom provided these boy bands with an invaluable opportunity to establish themselves in the fierce "comeback war" that followed the show's broadcast. The "comeback war" refers to a period where multiple boy bands are vying for attention and recognition, with each performance being crucial in securing their fanbase and market position.
One could argue that ONF benefited the most from this show out of all the RTK groups. Through their dynamic performances, ONF managed to captivate not only Korean fans but also international audiences. Participants in RTK are often seen as rising stars, and winning the spotlight during this program can significantly boost their careers.
A New Chapter in Boy Band Success
What sets RTK apart from other shows is its unique format. It is often likened to a male version of a girl group competition show called Queendom, which enjoyed great success in 2019. Just as Queendom highlighted the talents and star power of female idol groups, RTK showcases the potential and dynamics of male idol groups like ONF and ONEUS.
The show’s success is attributed to its ability to provide a platform for up-and-coming talent, similar to how Queendom did for female idol groups. Through RTK, groups like ONF and ONEUS had the chance to demonstrate their vocal prowess, dance skills, and overall entertainment value, making their comeback performances all the more impactful.
The Elevating Effect on Album Sales
Another significant outcome of participating in Road to Kingdom was the positive impact on album sales. The performances that ONF and ONEUS showcased on the show helped to generate strong demand for their new releases. Given the competitive nature of the music industry, particularly for boy bands, these performances served as a strategic move to increase album sales and solidify fan engagement.
Conclusion
Participation in Road to Kingdom proved to be a turning point for ONF and ONEUS. Their performances not only boosted their popularity but also reinforced their brand reputation. This success underscores the importance of talent shows in shaping the careers of new and upcoming artists. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, shows like RTK are likely to play a significant role in launching the careers of future pop stars.