Mnet global boy group debut survival show 'Boys2 Planet' reached its long-awaited finale, and Lee Sang-won and I Rio joined the debut lineup by placing first and sixth respectively. The two burst into tears of emotion as they finally made their long-cherished dream of "debuting as singers" come true.
In the final ranking announcement, Lee Sang-won, who took first place, repeatedly wiped his tears on stage and expressed his deep gratitude. He said, "Just being able to be here today is truly meaningful and precious," and added, "Beyond that, being able to remain a candidate for first place until the end and have my name listed still doesn't feel real."
He continued, "I am honored to appear as a candidate for first place again this time, and I am sincerely grateful. I'm so happy because of all of you. If it weren't for the fans and the Starkreators, I wouldn't be able to stand here," offering heartfelt thanks to his fans.
He moved the audience to tears with a particularly heartfelt message to his parents. "Mom, Dad, it took a long time, didn't it? If there's one thing I can be proud of in my life, it's being the son of Mom and Dad. Having such proud parents is my greatest pride," he said through tears.
He also said, "The journey called 'Boys2 Planet' has been the most beautiful time of my life so far," and vowed, "I will continue to work hard and become an artist who conveys love. I will be a proud member of Alpha Drive One, the eternal No. 1 Lee Sang-won."
I Rio, who ranked sixth and joined the debut lineup, also showed more intense emotion than ever. He began, "I sincerely thank the Starkreators. As a proud member, I will repay you with great activities."
Family members visited from Australia to congratulate him at the event that day. I Rio, saying, "My mom is here. I did it!" showed overwhelming emotion, and with moist eyes added, "I endured this dream alone for seven years. I want to sincerely thank and tell my mother, who quietly supported and waited for me during that time, that I love her."
He also expressed gratitude to his longtime friend and colleague Lee Sang-won. "If Sang-won hadn't been there, this place wouldn't exist. I'm so glad we can achieve the dream we couldn't accomplish together. Let's continue to be happy and active together. I love you," he said, showing their close friendship.
Lee Sang-won and I Rio are both former members of Trainee A, and because they once faced debut setbacks, this achievement carries even more meaning. After long trainee periods and fierce competition, the two were finally chosen by global fans to join the debut group Alpha Drive One (ALPHA DRIVE ONE, AD1).
After a long wait, Lee Sang-won and I Rio, who achieved their dream of debuting as singers, now stand at a new starting line. Their journey, concluded with sincere tears and pledges, has raised expectations among fans worldwide about what music and stories they will present next.
[Photo] Broadcast capture
[OSEN]