The second crew to leave 'World of WSF' was RHTokyo.
The broadcast on Nov. 1 (Tuesday) of Mnet's 'World of Street Woman Fighter' (directed by Kwon Young-chan CP, Choi Jung-nam PD / hereafter 'WSWF') showcased a mega crew mission with global scale, followed by an intense battle for a single spot leading to the semi-finals between AG SQUAD and RHTokyo, delivering an exhilarating immersion.
The broadcast recorded a peak rating of 2.0% and an average rating of 1.6% (based on AGB Nielsen, paid households in the metropolitan area), and the real-time viewing share on TVING soared to 94%, proving its unending popularity. Moreover, according to the Good Day Corporation FUNdex, it topped the non-drama category for the fifth consecutive week as of the fourth week of June, never dropping from the first position in the topic rankings since its broadcast, maintaining overwhelming prominence.
On this day's broadcast, the mega crew mission vividly presented national identity. With unprecedented locations including Korea, Australia, the United States, and Japan, the introduction of the high angle challenge added further intrigue. The five crews captivated the audience, generating a monumental piece that surpassed a combined view count of 36 million (as of the 2nd). Special judge Mike Song participated in the judging alongside Park Jin-Young, while the three judges scored on four categories: high angle, national identity, directing, and choreography.
The first team evaluated was OSAKA Ojo Gang. Under the leadership of Ibuki and Ru, OSAKA Ojo Gang showcased a fusion of illuminated sticks and waacking skills, representing Japan's otaku culture. TWICE members came to support, and during the high angle segment, a choreography reminiscent of Japan's cherry blossoms unfolded, making it impossible to look away. AG SQUAD, led by Kaea, showcased Australia's indigenous culture along with the wonders of nature. The members transformed into snakes, crocodiles, and spiders, creating movie-like scenes, but received some criticism for leaving a bit to be desired in the high angle segment.
RHTokyo emerged as a standout piece under the direction of Riehata, earning high praise from the judges. It completed a Tokyo-style aesthetic across various locations such as a greengrocer, school, game center, subway, and Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and its addictive performance, which everyone can follow along with, was exceptional. MOTIV conveyed the colors of America under the title 'We The People.' With leader Marlee as the overall director, the performance combined American melting pot culture and hip-hop, delivering a profound impact.
The work of BUMSUP, which surpassed 14 million views (as of the 2nd), was full of awe. The idea of utilizing 'God' in the high angle segment shone brightly, particularly as actress Roh Yoon-seo and Bada, from the winning crew of 'WSF2,' collaborated to enhance its quality. The judges also showered them with compliments. Mike Song and Park Jin-Young remarked, "This is insane. It's impossible" and "100 points for capturing artistry, a different level," expressing their heartfelt praise. Under the delicate directing of leader Honey J, BUMSUP secured the first place in the mega crew mission, achieving an unprecedented storyline that shook off their past struggles.
The two teams in the elimination battle were RHTokyo and AG SQUAD. Both teams ranked 4th and 5th in the mega crew mission, respectively, leading to a survival contest in the elimination battle. Fight judges Mike Song, Park Jin-Young, along with special judges Oshima, Yoon-Ji, and Phil Wizard participated in the battle, which was conducted in a best-of-five format. After winning the group battle in the first round, AG SQUAD maintained their momentum and won the duet battle in the second round, getting one step closer to victory. RHTokyo, led by Riehata who was injured, launched a formidable counterattack and claimed victory in the third round, but ultimately could not surpass the fourth round wall, becoming the second crew to be eliminated.
RHTokyo shed tears of disappointment, yet conveyed, "Thanks to being on 'WSWF', I learned the importance of competing together. I believe this youthful moment will never come again in life, so I have no regrets. I was glad to dance with such wonderful dancers."
Meanwhile, the next broadcast will feature the remaining four crews—AG SQUAD, BUMSUP, MOTIV, and OSAKA Ojo Gang—as the semi-finals commence. Anticipation builds for the intensified challenges leading to the finals, and a global audience rating mission with American hip-hop diva Saweetie is set to kick off, raising the excitement. Voting will be conducted through the YouTube channel The CHOOM until 6 p.m. (KST) on the 5th (Saturday).
'WSWF' airs every Tuesday at 10 p.m. (KST).
[Photo] Mnet
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