K-Pop's Survival Show Paradox: Stepping Stone or Stumbling Block?

Survival shows like Produce and Planet offer a unique pathway to stardom for smaller companies, catapulting trainees into the public eye and fostering massive fan bases.  The success of groups like IVE, born from this strategy, proves its effectiveness.  However, major agencies often bypass these shows, confident in their ability to debut successful groups using their established reputations.  This often results in temporary groups formed through these shows, serving as stepping stones for individual members' careers.  Kep1er's trajectory presents a compelling counterpoint.  The group's continued existence, despite lackluster management by Wakeone Entertainment, highlights the complexities of the system.  Had the members been affiliated with larger agencies possessing highly sought-after trainees (think IVE's Wonyoung, Chaewon, Yujin, or LE SSERAFIM's Sakura), Kep1er might have dissolved much sooner.  Wakeone's mismanagement significantly hampered Kep1er's potential, leading to declining sales, reputation, and chart performance.  This case underscores the crucial role effective management plays in a group's success, even after achieving initial popularity through a survival show.  While these shows offer a chance at fame, the ultimate outcome hinges on post-show management and the agency's ability to capitalize on the initial momentum.  The recent trends in K-Pop showcase the intense competition and the ever-evolving strategies for success.  The future of survival shows and their impact on the trajectory of K-Pop idols remains a fascinating topic of discussion.