Woollim Entertainment's boy group DRIPPIN members Lee Hyeop and Kim Dong Yun are set to make another attempt at idol stardom through Mnet's 'BOYS ll PLANET K' (hereafter 'Boys ll').
According to a report by TenAsia on the 18th, Lee Hyeop and Kim Dong Yun have decided to temporarily halt DRIPPIN's official schedule to participate in 'Boys ll'. Both members gained recognition through the 2019 show 'Produce X 101' (hereafter 'Produce X') and officially debuted with DRIPPIN under Woollim Entertainment in 2020.
During 'Produce X', Lee Hyeop, born in 1999, participated as an individual trainee without an agency. He caught attention with his excellent vocal skills and cute appearance reminiscent of a hamster but was eliminated, finishing in 24th place. He later joined Woollim Entertainment as a trainee. Kim Dong Yun, born in 2002, was eliminated during the second ranking announcement but was revived through votes from national producers, ultimately finishing the program in 23rd place after fierce competition.
DRIPPIN, launched by Woollim Entertainment, known for debuting INFINITE, gained attention for their refreshing visuals and youthful concept. However, their debut coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, making it challenging to build a fanbase and gain widespread public recognition. The group's leader and main dancer, Hwang Yun Seong, born in 2000, enlisted for mandatory military service on March 24.
Originally a seven-member group including German member Alex, DRIPPIN was restructured into a six-member group following Alex's departure in July 2023. All six members of DRIPPIN are alumni of 'Produce X'. Visual member Cha Jun Ho is also pursuing an acting career and expressed his deep affection for the team in an exclusive interview with TenAsia last month, stating, "Even if the time comes when we don't have to live in a dorm, I think I'll voluntarily live with the members. They're like family."
Lee Hyeop has previously expressed his determination to continue his idol career, stating in a fan community, "I will never give up. As long as the situation continues, I want to be an idol for a long time." His decision to appear on 'Boys ll' is seen as an extension of this resolve.
'Boys ll' marks the return of the series two years after the 2023 broadcast of 'Boys Planet'. With the previous season's group, ZEROBASEONE, achieving five consecutive million-seller records and creating a K-pop legend, expectations are high for the upcoming season, set to premiere in July.
Lee So Jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr