JL, the PLUUS boy group member is the only Filipino contestant in the SBS reality competition series, Universe League.
Honestly, there’s no stopping Filipino talent from taking over the world right now! From the massive success of SB19 and BINI to artists like Gehlee, Elisia, Jin Hyeon-ju of UNI, and Sophia of KATSEYE, Filipino artists are becoming global sensations.
And now, JL is stepping up to represent the Philippines in the Universe League, a show that’s sure to spotlight his skills and charisma on a bigger stage.
As one of 42 contestants in the reality show, JL will be competing in the male version of Universe Ticket, which is the show that created the popular girl group UNI. Moreover, it’s a fierce group-based competition where rhythm, groove, and beat are everything.
JL has experience as a performer. Therefore, this raises the question: will it be enough? He will compete against many talented contenders. Ultimately, can he secure his place in the spotlight?
From PLUUS to ‘Universe League’: Here’s Everything You Need to Know
If you haven’t seen the Universe League trailer yet, stop what you’re doing! Go check it out now. The clip was released on the show’s official YouTube channel. It starts with an animated football field. Then, it reveals the contestants’ faces. And yes, we get a glimpse of JL!
The stakes are sky-high. As the show’s voiceover teases: “A world where winner takes all. But it is not sports. It is ‘Universe League.’ Forty-two players enter the fierce battle for their debut. Rhythm, groove, beat: three teams are competing for the one and only Prism Cup. Who will be winning the Prism Cup? Winning the glory and a chance to debut.”
Preparing for the Spotlight
Chills, right? If there’s one thing JL excels at, it’s rhythm, groove, and beat. He debuted with PLUUS in May 2023 under SBTown’s training, which brings Korean-style training to Filipino artists. JL showcases everything from killer dance moves to powerful vocals that Filipino singers are known for. It’s no wonder fans obsess over him!
As JL steps into this new chapter, he’s got the full support of his PLUUS brothers and fans behind him. His group has been super vocal about cheering him on. PLUUS even shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), encouraging everyone to root for JL: “Show your support to our dearest JL.”
Plus, his SBTown labelmates also posted a video on YouTube expressing their love and support for JL as he begins this journey. Seeing the outpouring of love from his PLUUS fam is giving us all the feels.
During PLUUS’ ‘In-Motion’ fan meet in September, JL shared that he’ll be taking a break from the group’s activities to focus on Universe League. He opened up about how hard this decision was for him and the team: “Hindi po naging madali ang decision ng company, ng members, and hindi po siya naging madali for me. Paulit-ulit namin po siyang pinag-isipan.”
JL also reflected on how his love for music and K-pop shaped his dreams: “Bata pa lang ako, ineenjoy ko na po talagang makinig sa music, especially K-pop. Marami po akong tinitingala ng groups, and ‘yun ang reason b’at ko pinursue ang dream ko… I will always be PLUUS JL.”
Join the Excitement!
As we wait for the Universe League to kick off on November 22, fans are already buzzing with excitement about what JL will bring to the global stage.
Although details about the voting system haven’t been fully revealed, and it’s still unclear if international fans can vote for their faves, that’s not stopping us from showing our support in every way possible—let’s make sure JL knows we’ve got his back!
