BOYS II PLANET - YUMEKI
Dancer and choreographer YUMEKI, who previously appeared as a member of the 1MILLION crew on Street Man Fighter (스맨파), has now joined “Boys 2 Planet” as a contestant.
On July 17, the first episode of Mnet’s survival program “Boys 2 Planet K” aired. In this edition of “Boys 2 Planet”, contestants are divided into two teams: Planet K and Planet C. After intense competition within each team, only those who prove their value will earn the chance to face off in “Boys 2 Planet” and continue competing for a debut spot.
This episode featured the ranking selection of the Planet K participants. Rankings are divided into three categories: All-Star, Two-Star, and One-Star. At the end of each mission, the contestant with the lowest rank is eliminated immediately. During the ranking selection, contestants perform in teams to receive their evaluation, and those judged by the masters to be undeserving of a rank are eliminated and given the “No Star” status.
Toward the end of the episode, YUMEKI, a contestant from Yokohama, appeared and drew immediate attention. His presence caused quite a stir among viewers. He was already well-known in the dance world for having choreographed for famous idols. Dance master Kinki said:
“He’s an extremely well-known dancer, and he’s so active in the K-pop industry that we can’t imagine it without him. I’m honestly surprised to see him here. What motivated him to apply for this show?”
During the preliminary audition, YUMEKI explained:
“I’ve been dancing for over 10 years and working as a choreographer and dancer for the past 5. I’ve choreographed for THE BOYZ, SHINee, ITZY, members of TWS, and more recently for TXT and ILLIT.”
He continued:
“I also participated in a survival program with Master Baek Koo Young. During Street Man Fighter (스맨파), we basically lived together almost every day. I spent more time with him than with my own family. He gave me valuable advice about my future and helped me a lot. I think that experience really paid off.”
As for why he joined “Boys 2 Planet”, YUMEKI confessed:
“Ever since I was little, I’ve dreamed of becoming an idol. But as a dancer, being next to the singers, watching them — it made me really jealous. Why can’t I do that? Isn’t that what I truly want?”
He also shared that he started working on his vocals for the audition:
“This is the first time I’ve ever sung, and I quickly realized I wasn’t very good. Singing while dancing is incredibly hard. It’s only because of this audition that I even started singing. I was really nervous, but I wanted to show the best version of myself, so I learned a new song. Opportunities like this don’t come around often. I want to seize this chance and go all the way with no regrets.”
Dance master Baek Koo Young encouraged YUMEKI, saying:
“I respect Meki a lot — he’s like our little brother. He’s a dancer and a choreographer. If Meki survives here and moves on to the next round, I’ll be genuinely touched. It would make me really happy.”
He also revealed that he had no idea YUMEKI was going to participate: “I had no idea. I only found out when I saw him here.” Kinki added: “We worked together recently, but he never said a word about this.” Lim Han Byul voiced some doubts: “But this is a singing competition. You have to sing here…” Nevertheless, YUMEKI performed Rainism by Rain.
After his performance, YUMEKI received his ranking and showed a disappointed attitude, saying: “My pride is really hurt. I wasn’t good enough, and I have a lot of work to do.” He also added, head lowered: “Why am I here?” — further heightening curiosity around his performance.
What was his actual result? You’ll find out in the next episode.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Mnet
