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Korea Herald
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Lee Jung says dance is her 'source of life'
Star dancer and choreographer reflects on Bumsup's defeat on 'World of Street Woman Fighter' K-pop continues to dominate the global stage — not just through its chart-topping idol groups, but also thanks to the choreographers and creative minds behind the scenes who are now gaining long-overdue recognition. Among them is one of the hottest names in the game: Lee Jung, the 26-year-old star choreographer who recently appeared in Mnet's dance survival competition "World of Street Woman Fighter," the third installment of the hit competition franchise "Street Woman Fighter" (2023). The series aired its finale Tuesday, concluding with a showdown between dance crews representing countries around the world. Japan's Osaka Ojo Gang ultimately took the crown, beating out five other teams: South Korea's Bumsup, the United States' Motiv, Japan's RHTokyo, New Zealand's Royal Family and Australia's AG Squad. Though the nine-episode series pulled in modest TV ratings — averaging around 1 percent viewership — it became a sensation online. Across platforms such as YouTube and social media, the show dominated digital conversation, topping the non-drama rankings from Good Data Corporation's Fundex for the first three weeks of June. The rankings are based on an analysis of program-related information and netizen responses generated from sources including news articles and social media. The homeground team, Bumsup, was made up of some memorable dancers from the show's breakout first season, including Lee Jung, Aiki, No:ze and Honey J. On July 15, fans were stunned when it failed to make it past the semifinals and missed out on the finals. It was an emotional moment for Lee, who rose to stardom following her breakout appearance on 'Street Woman Fighter' two years ago and has choreographed some of K-pop's most iconic routines, including Twice's 'Fancy' and 'Feel Special,' as well as Blackpink's 'Pink Venom' and 'Shut Down.' After Bumsup's elimination, Lee sobbed on camera, a moment of sincerity that resonated with fans. Speaking at an interview in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on Thursday, she reflected on the defeat. 'Since there are so few chances to perform live on stage, I thought this would be a rare opportunity to express my gratitude for all the support I've received, but I was really upset because I felt like I missed that chance,' she said. Lee, who began dancing professionally in 2014, credited "Street Woman Fighter" for helping bring dance into the cultural mainstream. 'In the past, dance was something shared and loved only by those who pursued it professionally. But now, even people who don't do it as a job genuinely love dance. That's what has really changed. These days, people are curious about who choreographed a routine, and they're interested in what someone like me, Lee Jung, will do next. That shift is incredible.' Lee's path to the stage began humbly: What started as a talent show gig for school eventually became her life's calling. For Lee, over time, dance evolved into something far more personal. 'Dance makes me incredibly happy. And what meaning is there in a life without happiness?' she asked. '(Dance) is not just an art form, genre or profession — it's a source of life itself and a form of salvation.' With "World of Street Woman Fighter" now wrapped, Lee is turning her attention to larger-scale, more varied creative ventures. One standout project was her role in choreographing the Netflix animated global hit "KPop Demon Hunters," marking another major step in her international career. Reflecting on the film, which had been in development for three years before its release in June, Lee shared her excitement about how the medium of animation shattered traditional limitations for dancers. "I was so excited when they told me, from a technical standpoint, 'Huntrix has no physical limitations.' They said, 'Lee, you can do everything you want.' ... That's why I was able to enjoy it even more." She also recounted a memorable moment from working on the track "How It's Done." "While working on the song 'How It's Done,' I heard that Huntrix members would be dropping from a plane and landing in the dome. I got super excited, because I'm also someone who thinks the way a performance begins — the entrance — is incredibly important. So hearing that kind of entrance idea even before we shared our visions made me think, 'This is going to be so much fun.'' Looking ahead, Lee said she's eager to explore choreography across a wider spectrum, embracing new formats and global platforms. 'I want to dance in a much broader realm. I want to go wherever dance is needed. Whether it's collaborating with a singer and making headlines, performing in commercials through dance or running a YouTube channel as a dancer, I believe there are things only I can do. I want to turn those rare, less-traveled paths into my own unique space. I want to dance on a bigger stage while staying true to the 'real me' — the version of myself in that underground practice room,' she said.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Leejung: From Aspiring Dancer to International Choreographer Transforming Dreams into Reality
When Your Hobby Becomes Your Lifeline Picture this - you're 26, and instead of being stuck in a boring 9-to-5 like most of us are expected to be, you're choreographing for global superstars like Blackpink and Twice, and now even creating dance moves for animated characters. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for Leejung, this dream is her reality, and honestly, her story is giving us major life goals. For this remarkable 26-year-old choreographer, dance has become something far deeper than just a career move. "Dance isn't just an art, a genre or a job to me anymore. It's what keeps me going. I hope this doesn't sound too dramatic, but it's truly been my salvation," she has expressed about her relationship with her craft. Now, before you roll your eyes thinking this is just another "follow your dreams" lecture, hear us out. This girl has been grinding in the dance scene for a decade, and she's still hungry to learn more. That's the kind of energy we need to channel, whether we're into coding, music, art, or even making reels that actually go viral. The Global Stage That Changed Everything Remember how dance was once considered "just a hobby" by most parents back home? Well, Korea went through a similar phase until shows like "Street Woman Fighter" came along in 2021 and literally transformed dance from a niche subculture to mainstream entertainment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Live Comfortably: 60m2 prefabricated bungalow for the elderly in Dulalowo Pre Fabricated Homes | Search Ads Search Now Undo Leejung was part of the latest season, "World of Street Woman Fighter," where she represented Team Korea Bumsup against crews from Australia, the US, Japan, and New Zealand. The show featured some seriously impressive judges too - Mike Song from the legendary dance crew Kinjaz and Park Jin-young (yes, the JYP guy). Imagine competing on a stage where your childhood idol is watching you perform. That's exactly what happened when Kaea from Australia's AG Squad - someone Leejung looked up to while growing up - called her a "star" and an "icon". Even though Team Korea didn't make it to the finals, Leejung's attitude is something we can all learn from: "Every moment left me thinking I could've done more - and sure, I wish I had. But I don't regret any of it". That's the kind of mindset that separates dreamers from achievers. What's fascinating is how this mirrors our own entertainment industry's evolution. Just like how dance reality shows transformed perceptions in Korea, shows like "Dance Plus" and "Dance Deewane" have given our dancers platforms they never had before. The struggle of convincing parents that dance is a legitimate career choice is universal, whether you're in Seoul or Mumbai. Breaking Boundaries - From Real Moves to Animated Magic Here's where things get really interesting. Three years ago, Leejung got the opportunity of a lifetime - choreographing for an animated project called "KPop Demon Hunters". Now, if you think choreographing for real people is challenging, imagine creating dance moves for animated characters where literally anything is possible. The project came to life when producers approached her with an ambitious vision. "At our very first Zoom meeting for this production, they told me what they were planning and that they needed me. My heart literally started racing," she later revealed. The producers basically told her, "There are no physical limits, so go ahead and do everything you want to do. Dream big". Can you imagine being given that kind of creative freedom? What's even cooler is how they incorporated her natural movements into the animation. During motion capture sessions, they kept the cameras rolling to observe how she naturally interacted with friends, especially in casual settings like a sauna. Her unconscious movements and natural gestures became part of the final animated product, bringing an authentic human touch to the digital characters. This kind of innovation reminds us of how our own animation industry is evolving. From traditional 2D animations to motion capture technology being used in projects, the creative possibilities are endless when passion meets technology. About Passion and Persistence After a decade in the dance scene, Leejung had moments of doubt - wondering if she'd ever get bored of dancing. But her recent experiences reminded her that there's always more to learn, always room to grow. "As long as I'm not good enough, there's no way I'll get bored. That in itself was really reassuring," she has reflected on her journey. This hits different when you think about our own journeys. How many times have we given up on something because we thought we weren't progressing fast enough? Leejung's story reminds us that the learning never stops, and that's actually the beautiful part. As someone who's now become a role model for young aspiring dancers, her message is simple yet powerful: "Protecting and doing what I love might not change the world, but it can at least change my world. So I hope that everyone discovers what they love and holds onto it". In a culture where we're often pushed toward "safe" career choices, Leejung's journey from a passionate dancer to an internationally recognized choreographer working with top K-pop groups and animated projects shows us that sometimes the "risky" path is actually the one that leads to the most fulfilling life. Just like how our own classical dancers, from Bharatanatyam to contemporary, have carved their own paths despite societal expectations, Leejung's story proves that authentic passion, when nurtured with dedication, can transcend all boundaries. Her journey also reflects the changing landscape of creative careers globally. Whether it's a choreographer in Seoul or a content creator in Bangalore, the digital age has opened doors that previous generations couldn't even imagine. The key is having the courage to walk through them.
Pink Villa
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Lee Jung calls V ‘great source of inspiration', recalls BTS member's viral dance moment where he brings same passion as her
Dancer and choreographer Lee Jung has shared glowing words about BTS' V (Kim Taehyung). She reveals how the two share a deep creative bond built around their mutual love for dance. The acknowledgment came during a recent interview for the finale of Mnet's World of Street Woman Fighter. It was held at a café in Seoul's Yongsan district on July 24, 2025. When asked about her connection with V, Lee Jung didn't hold back in expressing her admiration. She notes that their shared passion for dance has created a strong and natural synergy whenever they meet. Lee Jung praises V's passion for dance According to Lee Jung, what makes V stand out among performers is not just his celebrity status or vocal talent, but his genuine love for dance. Despite being primarily recognized as a singer, V's dedication to the art of movement left a lasting impression on the professional dancer. In her words, 'We're connected through dance. He loves dance as much as I do, so we really connect on that level.' She remarked that V often pours himself into practice sessions with a level of intensity that rivals her own. In fact, witnessing his commitment pushed her to reevaluate her own standards. 'He's truly humble, and seeing how hard he works, even harder than I do, makes me think, 'I must never compromise with myself,'' she said. V is Lee Jung's source of inspiration Lee Jung also described V as a 'great source of inspiration.' Far from being just a collaborator, she views him as someone who recharges her creatively. 'He's someone I genuinely look up to/a true role model for me and he gives me a lot of energy,' she shared. Their relationship goes beyond just working together. It's about shared values, creative respect, and pushing each other to be better artists. Lee Jung and V's dance challenges keep going viral The chemistry between Lee Jung and V has been well documented through several high-energy dance collaborations that consistently go viral online. One of their most talked-about videos was released on June 11, 2025. The duo danced to Finatticz's Don't Drop That Thun Thun. The TikTok clip instantly trended across platforms, praised for its smooth execution and charismatic energy. Another clip followed featuring them dancing to WATCHU KNO BOUT ME by GloRilla. It once again showcased their tight coordination and infectious rhythm. Their collaborative streak actually began earlier, in November 2024, while V was still serving in the military. The two had dropped a slick routine to Ludacris' What's Your Fantasy? It surprised as well as impressed many fans.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Osaka Ojo Gang wins World of Street Woman Fighter Season 3 over AG Squad; fans cry nepotism as TWICE Momo's sister takes the crown
On July 22, 2025, Osaka Ojo Gang took home the championship title on World of Street Woman Fighter (WSWF) Season 3, beating out fierce competitors AG Squad and Motiv in a live finale aired by Mnet. Exuding stage-commanding energy, the Japanese crew captivated the judges and studio audience alike with their powerful final performance. The crew's artistry and charisma earned widespread praise as many highlighted how far they had come over the course of the season. For many viewers, their finale routine sealed the deal, but online, the debate was just beginning, with many alleging that AJ Squad was the real winner. Fans rally behind AG Squad The moment Osaka Ojo Gang was announced as the winner, social media users were left stunned, as many felt that AG Squad, who had consistently delivered technically flawless and emotionally gripping performances, had clearly earned the top spot. One fan tweeted, 'Ag squad really carried the whole season just to end up like Jam Republic…' Y'all not tired of snubbing the real winners?" ag squad really carried the whole season just to end up like jam republic… y'all not tired of snubbing the real winners 😭 "Honestly, I didn't need the AG squad to win 1st place because their superior performances and sheer work ethic during the show speak for themselves. They're a winner in my eyes, and that's all that matters," another wrote. honestly I didn't need ag squad to win 1st place because their superior performances and sheer work ethic during the show speak for themselves, they're a winner in my eyes and that's all that matters! 🫶🫶 #WSWF #WSWF3 Some fans even speculated that the decision leaned into Mnet's push for global appeal and that Osaka Ojo Gang's international popularity might've tipped the scales. The sentiment wasn't universal, but it was loud and persistent. Why are fans crying nepotism? Adding to the controversy, some netizens are now crying nepotism, pointing to the fact that TWICE member Momo's older sister, Hana Hirai, is part of the Osaka Ojo Gang. The connection drew even more attention when several TWICE members, including Momo, Jihyo, Jeongyeon, Nayeon, and Sana, showed up at the WSWF finale in support of the crew. While their presence lit up the crowd and added star power to the event, some fans are questioning whether the group's K-pop ties may have influenced the outcome. ' "Wdym a crew who wins almost all missions got lost to a crew who never wins even one? Oh, I hate nepotism. If it's SWF 2, I get it since Bebe wins on some missions too, but this? Meh," said one user. wdym a crew who wins almost all missions got lost to a crew who never win even one 🙂↔️ oh i hate nepotism. if swf 2 i get it since bebe wins on some missions too, but this? meh TWICE members and Daehwi spotted on the finale of WSWF. #WSWF AG Squad vs. Osaka Ojo Gang: two very different journeys AG Squad had one of the strongest track records this season. They came out on top in several missions, including the demanding Mega Crew challenge, and consistently impressed judges with clean execution and detailed choreography. Their elimination battle earlier in the show showcased just how fierce and prepared they were, making it all the more shocking when they didn't walk away with the title. Osaka Ojo Gang, on the other hand, gained momentum later in the season. Their Dance Film Mission performance—which racked up over 2.5 million views and 330,000 likes—helped cement their status as crowd pullers. Led by Kyoka and Ibuki, their finale routine leaned more into stage presence and emotional impact than technical perfection. That choice clearly worked for the judges, who emphasised storytelling and transformation in their final evaluations. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Hype Malaysia
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
aespa Set To Make Comeback With New Album This September
Just 3 weeks after their last release with their 2nd single album, 'Dirty Work' in June, aespa (에스파) is gearing up for another release very soon. With their chart-topping title track 'Dirty Work' hitting 41 million views on YouTube in just two weeks, SM Entertainment's powerhouse girl group is just getting started. News outlet Dispatch reported on 14th July 2025 (Monday) that aespa is prepping for an album release this September, with the girl group aiming to film their music video next week. Wrapping up their 'Dirty Work' promotions on the SBS music program 'Inkigayo' on 13th July 2025 (Sunday), vocalist Winter (김민정) hints at the comeback with, 'We will make a comeback soon, so please show lots of love for our next comeback song'. The report also states that renowned dancer Lee Jung (이이정), who is currently filming on Mnet's female dancer survival show, 'World of Street Woman Fighter', will be participating in the choreography for aespa's new track release. This new release marks the group's 2nd comeback of the year with only a 3-month gap in between. Netizens show positive reactions towards the news, with netizens agreeing that a new side to the group would be a welcome change for their next release. Twitter user @/NewsHanguk comments, 'We can't wait to see the new side they'll show us this time. Their music always inspires and energises us'. However, some netizens have brought up their latest track 'Dirty Work' as not being on par with the group's reputation. Twitter user @/TrelleLove comments, 'Dirty Work's choreography and how SM promoted was..I don't know. We heard pretty much the whole chorus weeks before the song came out'. Are you excited for aespa's September comeback? Sources: Naver, Soompi, Twitter Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
