'PROJECT 7' is a new audition show where viewers vote to form and strengthen idol groups, debuting on October 18 in South Korea.

'PROJECT 7' has announced the birth of a new concept audition. On the afternoon of the 18th, at the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul in Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, a production presentation for JTBC's new program 'PROJECT 7' (produced by STUDIO SLAM, SLL) was held. On this day, producer Ma Gon-yong of STUDIO SLAM, producer Choi Seong-wook, MC Lee Su-hyuk, director Ryan Jeong, and Wanna One members Ha Sung-woon, Lee Hae-in, RYUD (Ryu Jae-jun), and BADA from BEBE attended. 'PROJECT 7' introduces a new concept of an idol audition program where viewers step out of the observer's position and participate in selecting contestants round by round, forming new teams and growing their favorites through a process of 'building and strengthening.' The most important viewing point is the novel concept where viewers directly 'build' contestants in each round, thereby 'strengthening' their favorites. The seven selected through this viewer-driven process will debut as a global top-tier idol group. This raises interest in how viewers will navigate the building and strengthening process and what kind of dream group 'PROJECT 7' will create, being the first idol building and strengthening audition in Korea. 'PROJECT 7' is gaining attention for its fresh attempts, from the MC to the directors, differing from other survival idol auditions. Regardless of age, background, or genre, a 'super strong director lineup' was confirmed based solely on talent and ability. Lee Su-hyuk, who possesses overwhelming charisma, will challenge himself as the MC of an audition program for the first time since debuting. The lineup of directors, including Ryan Jeong, Ha Sung-woon, Lee Hae-in, RYUD, and BADA, will provide fair and detailed evaluations, as well as mentoring that resonates with trends, actively participating in all aspects. On this day, producer Choi Seong-wook commented on the question, 'If audition programs are seen as mild, the enjoyment decreases, and if they become overly spicy, fans tend to feel uncomfortable, how did you try to provide enjoyment?' saying, 'While doing 'Sing Again' and 'PEAK TIME,' we heard a lot about the term 'gentle audition.' He also stated, 'Just because we are a gentle production team, we do not intentionally edit gently. We strive to convey the situation and emotions of the participants to the viewers as they are. This principle remains unchanged this time.' However, he added, 'Since the trainees have a strong desire for debut and are in a competitive situation, I thought we could sufficiently satisfy those expecting a spicy flavor without special tricks or editing.' He also clarified, 'We do not plan to do any devil editing intentionally. I believe those seeking that kind of excitement will be satisfied as well.' Producer Ma Gon-yong also mentioned, 'As the number of participants tends to decrease, we are producing with a large number of people, so I think the excitement from the heated competition is sufficient without doing anything special.' He added, 'I don't think there will be a difference in the fun due to the production team's intervention. I believe the passion of the participants alone will be stimulating and passionate enough.' He then addressed the issue of fairness, stating, 'There are various possibilities, and it is true that the more votes there are, the more difficult it is to tally.' He continued, 'Voting will be conducted in collaboration with Weverse. I heard that Weverse has over 15 million users worldwide,' explaining that 'all voting processes will be properly disclosed on the website and Weverse.' In particular, he emphasized, 'We have prepared a lot for fairness. The program has time constraints for scheduling, and it is not possible for all participants to appear on screen fairly. From the production team's standpoint, we must prioritize entertainment over fairness. However, to maintain fairness, we are publicly disclosing all pre-released content and content released after the broadcast fairly. We plan to release footage of co-starring and evaluations in the same manner.' Lee Hae-in, when asked, 'Have you ever felt the dark side of audition programs?' responded, 'I think I am one of those who understands the feelings of those who have been eliminated twice in audition programs,' referring to her experiences in Mnet's 'Produce 101' Season 1 and 'Idol School.' She continued, 'There were many who worked harder than anyone else. In that regard, I am trying to be a director who can help even a little, and I felt that the production team is paying attention to fairness. I hope everyone can enjoy it without worrying too much.' She added, 'I am the creative director of KISS OF LIFE, but I have never worked with a male group. I want to create a good piece with good materials through 'PROJECT 7.' There are many people who are like jewels, and many have shown possibilities that others could not discover. I want to be a director who supports the participants to grow during the program.' Ha Sung-woon also shared his thoughts on becoming a director, saying, 'At first, it was burdensome. When I experienced survival, sometimes someone's advice could help, but it could also hurt. I feel pressure thinking that my words could influence someone's dream and life, and I revealed that I felt pressure.' He added, 'The production team encouraged me, and I gained the courage to 'try to support properly.' While filming, I also remembered my past.' 'PROJECT 7' will start airing in South Korea on the 18th at 8:50 PM.