The Korean representative dance crew BUMSUP is crying over profanity controversies and laughing over explosive public interest.

The stage 'World of K-Pop' presented by BUMSUP in the mega crew mission of Mnet 'World of Street Woman Fighter 3' (hereinafter referred to as WSWF) is drawing explosive reactions. The video released on Mnet's official YouTube channel 'The Dance' on the 18th has surpassed 11.8 million views as of the morning of the 22nd, proving the enthusiastic response of viewers.

The stage, themed 'Dream at the Boundary of Dreams,' transcended a simple dance performance, seamlessly blending the beauty of traditional Korea with modern sensibilities, inspiring admiration. Costumes inspired by traditional hats and white hanbok, makeup reminiscent of the grim reaper, and emotional direction... BUMSUP captivated global fans with an artistic stage that maximized Korean sentiment.

The artistic quality of the stage was further enhanced by the opening and closing appearances of actress Roh Yoon-seo. Centered around Honey J, a team of leaders who proved their skills in past seasons—AIKI, Leejung, Ri.hey, LIP J, NO:ZE, and Hyojin Choi—came together to complete a synergy worthy of a 'national representative' crew.

However, their journey was anything but smooth. In the early season, BUMSUP faced harsh criticisms of 'poor harmony' and 'lack of energy' while suffering a series of losses, with some members even being named as the worst dancers. They had to endure the stigma of being labeled 'the team that received the most no respect' and being seen as 'an easy opponent.'

Leaders Honey J and AIKI shed tears after consecutive losses, expressing their true feelings, saying, 'I was genuinely hurt,' and 'I even wondered if it was all for nothing.' However, BUMSUP stood firm. Instead of wavering, they used the harsh criticisms as stepping stones, completing an overwhelming performance that captivated viewers around the world.

The video surpassed 7 million views within a day of its release, receiving acclaim not only from netizens at home and abroad but also from national institutions. The Korea Heritage Service praised, 'We rushed here upon hearing that a performance of national heritage caliber was displayed,' while the Korea Intangible Cultural Heritage Center left a supportive comment stating, 'Such a hip interpretation of intangible heritage makes one marvel in awe.'

Singer Jay Park noted, "I came after watching while chasing 'body.' Honey J's absence on stage is big, but you are doing something even greater," praising his former dancer Honey J.

The stage of BUMSUP, which conveyed the beauty and emotion of traditional Korean culture to the world, was truly a 'turning point.' The heartfelt story they delivered on stage has garnered generous applause from fans around the globe.

However, apart from the heated public interest, Honey J and AIKI recently found themselves embroiled in another controversy. On the 21st, in a reaction video for the first episode of 'World of WSWF' released on the YouTube channel 'Today also Hyo-jin Choi,' Honey J made comments while watching the performance of the Japanese crew Danica, saying, 'Is that even dancing, XX.' This led to allegations of sexual harassment from some viewers. AIKI also faced criticism for using profanity during the video, saying, 'Such a XX woman.'

Ultimately, the two officially apologized through handwritten letters on the 22nd. Honey J stated, 'I deeply apologize to those who were hurt by my careless remarks and actions,' and added, 'I directly apologized to the dancers of the opposing crew as soon as I realized the situation. Thank you for your kind understanding, and I apologize once again.'

She continued, "This incident made me realize the weight of words. I will act more carefully to avoid repeating mistakes." AIKI also stated, 'I apologize for the inappropriate remarks made in the heat of the moment,' and acknowledged, 'The more sincere the feelings towards the stage, the more cautious one must be.'

Currently, the video in question has been deleted.

'WSWF' airs every Tuesday night at 10 p.m. In its inaugural season, it features a global national competition format, with crews from countries including Korea, the United States, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand engaging in intense competition.

[Photo] Captured from Mnet 'The Dance' and YouTube 'Today also Hyo-jin Choi.'

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