On Mnet's 'World of Street Woman Fighter' (also known as 'SWF3'), Honey J is once again crafting a miracle. Four years ago, during Season 1, she led HolyBang to complete a dramatic turnaround in the Mega Crew mission. This season, she is proving her exceptional skills as a director, overcoming the 'worst crew' evaluation.
On the 18th, the Mega Crew mission performance was unveiled on the YouTube channel of 'SWF3'. This stage has received the hottest response across the 'SWF' series, earning high praise. Previously, Honey J's crew, Beomjeop, was considered inferior to global crews, but this mission turned the tide completely.
Beomjeop's journey was not smooth from the start. Hastily formed for the show, they were labeled the weakest in the first episode's battle. Leader Honey J was burdened with numerous 'No Respect' stickers and faced defeat in the battle results. In the Rank Mission, she lost to Rie Hata, leader of the R.A.T. Tokyo crew, in a fierce final, marking consecutive eliminations.
Despite the disappointing results, Honey J's effort and attitude shone throughout the mission preparation. She prioritized the team over personal pride, working diligently and training herself for the next stage, even in unfair situations.
Her efforts paid off as the Mega Crew video became a sensation upon release. Featuring actress Noh Yoon-seo and Bada, leader of Season 2's winning team Bebe, the stage captivated with its horror concept based on an Oriental mise-en-scène. It transcended traditional themes, delivering a chilling story and choreography that left viewers in awe.
This performance is considered a high-quality showcase that defies Rie Hata's previous comment that 'Beomjeop is not global class.' It highlighted the prowess of Korean dancers, leaving a lasting impression worldwide.
This isn't Honey J's first dramatic turnaround. Four years ago, in 'SWF' Season 1, she didn't stand out in the Weakness Battle, Rank Mission, or K-pop Mission, but she led a narrative reversal in the Mega Crew mission, ultimately winning. Similarly, this season's Mega Crew mission became a turning point. Though the journey ahead is long, this mission held special significance for Honey J, Beomjeop, and viewers alike.
It's noteworthy that Honey J wasn't originally Beomjeop's leader. Monica, initially slated as leader, had to step down due to pregnancy, leading to Honey J's sudden leadership. Returning after giving birth in 2023, concerns about her physical condition and performance quality were dispelled by her impressive Mega Crew mission.
When Honey J first appeared on the 'SWF' stage in 2021, street dance wasn't as recognized as it is now. It took time for dancers like her to gain recognition for their skills and charm through broadcasting. However, the explosive popularity of 'SWF' played a crucial role in turning dancers into stars, with Honey J at the center.
Honey J is praised not only for her title as Korea's top dancer but also for her dedication to each mission, her responsibility as a leader, and her flexible communication with crew members. Her composed leadership serves as an inspiration to viewers.
'World of SWF' is not just another Season 3 but a global-scale survival project. It demands higher standards and stronger competitiveness from participating crews. On such a stage, Honey J has once again proven why she is top-class in the industry as both a dancer and director. 'SWF3' has become another turning point in her career.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr