There is nothing more thrilling than a battle between K-pop’s most iconic choreographers.
K-pop has many distinctive features, but its choreography and dance moves are just as essential to the genre as its songs and performers. Think of songs like ‘Magnetic’, ‘Next Level’, or ‘Like Jennie’. What often comes to mind first is the choreography. The music may be addictive and the songs themselves infectious, but people are perhaps most likely to remember them—and recreate them—through dance challenges by copying the moves. This is why certain Korean songs have become instantly recognizable for their signature dance sequences.
To create dance moves that become landmarks for iconic songs, the choreographers behind them must possess exceptional talent. Now imagine such genius minds competing against each other. That is the backdrop of Mnet’s new dancing competition show. While it initially appeared to be a mere continuation of the existing series, this edition truly feels different. It does not follow the familiar structure or mission format of the previous ones. Take, for example, the latest mission: ‘The Title Sequence Mission’!
The Title Sequence Mission
Each instalment of the series usually begins with a title song. This time, the participants were given a new challenge: to create and direct a film sequence using the show’s title song. This mission was an intense battle of ideas. Each contestant brought a different working style, personality, and genre to the table. Naturally, they came up with different approaches and strategies to make their versions stand out. While some participants seemed to drift away from the purpose of the mission, the storytelling and styling of Bada, Nain, Back Koo-young, and Minjun stood out as some of the strongest.
Even though Koo-young’s and Nain’s videos were chosen initially, if Bada’s composition for the part ‘Royalty’ had been chosen, her catchy move would have been turned into an addictive hook step and viral online challenge. In the end, Koo-young was chosen as the director, a decision that made sense given his extensive experience in the K-pop industry.
Throughout the behind-the-scenes footage, viewers saw how he tried to create more space and opportunities for each participant. Yet, when you watch the final video, Bada appears to be one of the few contestants who did not receive much visibility. Usually, Bada has the kind of charm and stage presence that immediately draws the eye, which perhaps explains why Koo-young chose to use her selectively.
The Worst Dancers
As in previous shows, these types of missions would eventually include a segment where the worst dancers would be identified. Fans who followed the mission closely probably anticipated names such as Renan and Hash. There was perhaps another name that some might have expected to hear as well. But what felt surprising was the inclusion of Minjun on the list. While he did appear to be outside his comfort zone during the shooting of the film sequence, the effort was there.
Usually, only one person faces elimination. This time, however, two contestants would have to leave the show.
The Last Stage 24H + First Elimination
Another distinctive feature of this edition is the introduction of a different episode format for this elimination round. It’s really interesting how the main requirement for this round is the use of props. Other than that, the participants are given full freedom. There are no restrictions on style, storytelling, genre, or even the choice of music, allowing the participants to shape their performances in whatever direction they want.
Renan’s performance was arguably the most disappointing performance of the show. Shows like this tend to expose the weaknesses of even the most highly accomplished choreographers and reveal their less polished sides. Despite having conceived the choreography for great songs like aespa’s ‘Armageddon’, she lacked stage charisma and completely failed to make effective use of the props.
When it comes to Hash, her performance was by no means weak, but once again, it overlooked a crucial element. In the end, the audience is the ultimate judge, and as a choreographer, it is important to connect with the public. While her stage performance was respectable and reflected her own artistry and preferred style, it was certainly not memorable.
A concept that truly reached the audience and produced that ‘wow’ moment capable of winning the judges over was Minjun’s performance. For context, his performance was an outstanding homage to the Korean movie ‘Ode to My Father’. The parts where he ‘jumped into the sea’ or ‘dragged the ship’ showcased his incredible talent for resonating with the audience through his artistic storytelling. His performance carried so much raw emotion that even non-Korean viewers must have felt the intensity and weight of the moment. Truly, he deserved to be the winner of that round.
Upcoming Mission: ‘Solo Artist Director Mission’
Do you know who’s coming next?
NCT’s Taeyong and ALLDAY PROJECT’s Bailey!
That’s right, it’s time for K-pop idols to enter the picture. In the next episode, the contestants will have to team up and create choreography for these stars, who will decide the winning concept.
So, stay tuned for more updates!
Written by Diksha Gangadeen
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