Scoreload

"Produce X 101" was a South Korean reality television show and the fourth season of the "Produce 101" series. It aired from May 3 to July 19, 2019, and it was produced by Mnet. The show aimed to create a boy group by selecting members from a pool of 101 trainees from various entertainment companies. Here are some interesting facts about "Produce X 101" and its theme song, "Pick Me":

1. Concept and Theme Song:

   • The theme song for "Produce X 101" was titled "X1-MA," pronounced as "pick me." The song was performed by all the trainees on the show and served as a symbol of their unity and shared goal to debut in a project group.

2. Viewership and Popularity:

   • The show gained immense popularity, with a large viewership both in South Korea and internationally. The concept of viewers voting for their favorite trainees to determine the final lineup added a unique interactive element to the show.

3. Formation of X1:

   • The final lineup, known as X1, was determined through a combination of online and live voting. The group consisted of 11 members who earned the most votes and were announced during the finale on July 19, 2019.

4. Debut Lineup - X1:

   • The final members of X1 were: Kim Yo-han, Kim Woo-seok, Han Seung-woo, Song Hyeong-jun, Cho Seung-youn, Son Dong-pyo, Lee Han-gyul, Nam Do-hyon, Cha Jun-ho, Kang Min-hee, and Lee Eun-sang.

5. International Trainees:

   • "Produce X 101" featured trainees from various countries, including South Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand. The inclusion of international trainees added diversity to the competition and showcased the global nature of K-pop fandom.

6. Controversies:

   • The show faced some controversies, including allegations of vote manipulation. These controversies led to investigations, and as a result, the debut group X1 disbanded in January 2020.

7. Post-Disbandment Activities:

   • Despite the disbandment, several members of X1 continued their careers in the entertainment industry. Some returned to their respective agencies, while others pursued solo activities or joined new groups.

"Produce X 101" left a significant impact on the K-pop industry, and its format has influenced similar survival shows in South Korea and other countries. The show provided a platform for aspiring idols to showcase their talents and gain recognition from the public.