The Maknae Has to Be an Idol

My Thoughts on The Maknae Has to Be an Idol

"The Maknae Has to Be an Idol" took me on a wild ride through the K-Pop world with a supernatural twist, and honestly, I'm still processing it all. It's a novel with a ton of heart, some genuinely intriguing mysteries, and a few quirks that kept me from falling head-over-heels.

First Impressions

Initially, I wasn't sure what to expect. Idol stories can be a bit hit-or-miss, but the premise of age regression and conditional powers piqued my interest. The early chapters, especially the survival show arc, were definitely a highlight. I was immediately drawn to Bong Tae-Yoon, our MC. There's something endearing about his dedication and willingness to sacrifice for his team.

What Works Well

The author's take on the idol system felt fresh. The plot kept me engaged by constantly feeding me new information. I especially enjoyed the dynamic between Tae-Yoon and his rival, Kang Hyun-Sung. Their relationship was complex and compelling, adding a layer of depth beyond the usual idol competition tropes. The system in this novel is very well thought out and explored, which is something that I appreciated.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the overall story, I did find some aspects a bit lacking. The pacing felt uneven at times, with certain plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. I also felt that some characters were introduced and then seemingly forgotten, leaving me wanting more closure. The ending was a bit confusing, incorporating science fiction elements that felt somewhat out of place. I also felt that the MC was not as appreciated by his bandmates as he should have been.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, "The Maknae Has to Be an Idol" is a worthwhile read, especially if you're looking for a unique take on the idol genre with supernatural elements and a caring protagonist. While the pacing and character development could be refined, the intriguing plot, heartwarming relationships, and mysterious regression kept me invested until the end. It's definitely a novel I'd recommend checking out, especially with the manhwa adaptation now available!