Kim Jun-min, known by his stage name Jayder, the leader of the newly debuted 8-member boy group WHIB under C-JeS Studios, has been making waves alongside IST Entertainment trainee Park Dong-gyu on the reality competition show 'BOYS II PLANET'.
On the 11th episode of Mnet's 'BOYS II PLANET', the top 24 contestants who survived the second elimination round showcased their talents in the semi-final 'Debut Concept Battle'. The restructured teams delivered performances that highlighted their unique charms, earning enthusiastic responses from viewers and star creators alike.
The 'Lucky MACHO' team, led by Park Dong-gyu in his first leadership role, transformed into six charismatic riders, exuding explosive hip-hop energy. Kim Jun-min, who took on the killing part, left a lasting impression with his commanding charisma, achieving the highest score within the team. Park Dong-gyu and Hwan Won also demonstrated their dedication with strong vocals and performances, earning high scores.
Behind-the-scenes footage revealed the preparation process before the performance. Reflecting on the early days of dorm life, Park Dong-gyu shared, "When I first arrived here with the IST trainees, we all aimed for the finals, but the competition was fierce with many talented and charming individuals." Kim Jun-min advised, "That's why you can't afford to slack off on anything," to which Park Dong-gyu agreed, saying, "I truly feel that."
Before going to bed, Kim Jun-min confirmed with Park Dong-gyu, "We have to gather on the first floor by 9 AM tomorrow, right?" Both expressed their determination to reach the finals.
The next morning, following the production team's instructions, the contestants gathered by 8:50 AM. Kim Jun-min and Park Dong-gyu were the first to be ready, waiting for the others. The production team noted that since the signal song test four months ago, they have consistently been among the first to arrive and have never been late during the training period.
In an interview, Kim Jun-min stated, "It's communal living. Even if your friends are still sleeping, you have to be the first to get up." Despite being strangers initially, the two became roommates and continued the habit of waking up early together from the first day.
In the episode aired on August 21st, Kim Jun-min's screen time was notably significant. The 'Like JENNIE' team, featuring talented members like Lee Sang-won, Kim Jun-min, and Han Harry June, drew attention for their powerful combination.
During practice, Kani asked Kim Jun-min, "Why can't you make proper eye contact?" He confessed, "It's my first time performing with such strong members, and my confidence is low." Kani encouraged him, saying, "If I had to choose one, I'd pick Kim Jun-min," recognizing his potential and advising, "If you don't believe in yourself, how can others believe in you?"
Following the second elimination announcement, Kim Jun-min made a remarkable leap, rising 16 spots to 11th place. Park Dong-gyu also made a dramatic survival story by leading the choreography for the 'Bad - Christopher' stage, despite not having the killing part, and secured the 24th spot.