IVE's Gaeul Triumphs in 'Death Game' with Strategic Victory and Wins $10,000

Gaeul, a member of the K-pop group IVE, emerged victorious in a strategic showdown, earning a prize of 10 million won (approximately $10,000). Meanwhile, fellow IVE member Jang Wonyoung made headlines earlier this year by purchasing a luxury villa in the prestigious UN Village in Hannam-dong for 13.7 billion won (approximately $10.3 million) in cash.

On the latest episode of Netflix's daily variety show 'Death Game: Bet on 10 Million Won' (directed by Kwon Dae-hyun, produced by TEO), which aired on Wednesday, a thrilling 1:1 brain game match unfolded between attorney Yang Narae and IVE's Gaeul, captivating viewers with intense engagement.

The showdown, set in the Year of the Red Horse, was a battle of wits between two competitors born in the Year of the Horse, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Gaeul, known as a board game enthusiast, confidently stated, "I love brain games, so I decided to join the survival show. I'll prove I'm not an easy opponent." Commentator Jang Dong-min, referencing his collaboration with Ahn Yujin from the 'Crime Scene' series, expressed his anticipation, saying, "I've heard she's quite skilled."

The game, titled 'Run, Horse!', required players to strategically move their pieces to reach the central 'Oasis' on the board before their opponent. The winner was determined by the first to secure two victories out of three rounds. The key to success lay in dominating the cross lines leading to the Oasis, demanding advanced calculation and psychological tactics.

Yang Narae anticipated a cautious, defense-oriented strategy, noting, "My piece's path could become a stepping stone for the opponent to enter the center." In contrast, Gaeul planned to quickly adapt to her opponent's strategy and maintain close pursuit, aiming to control the flow by flexibly switching between offense and defense. Jang Dong-min remarked, "I learned to play chess before I learned to read in third grade. In strategy games, it's crucial to balance offense and defense, and you need to anticipate at least ten moves ahead."

In the early stages, both players engaged in a tactical exploration, restricting each other's movements rather than rushing to the center. Amidst intense strategic exchanges, Gaeul capitalized on her opponent's mistakes with calm and precise attacks, securing an early lead. Her remarkable play continued in the second round, where she balanced defense and offense to clinch victory.

With this win, Gaeul was crowned the champion of the seventh episode, earning the victory token and the 10 million won prize. Yang Narae, who missed her chance for a second consecutive win, reflected, "It's been a while since I've focused so intensely since my bar exam." Commentators Jang Dong-min and Park Sang-hyun praised Gaeul's performance, describing her as "cold, calm, and precise," and declaring, "The era of IVE has begun."

The episode concluded with a teaser featuring Jin Yong-jin, a survival show planner and YouTuber with 2.8 million subscribers, heightening anticipation. Viewers are eager to see if Gaeul can continue her winning streak following her victory over Yang Narae.

'Death Game' is a high-stakes 1:1 brain game showdown, with each episode deciding the winner in a single match. It airs every Wednesday at 5 PM on Netflix.

Reported by Kim Se-ah for TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr