The MNET program Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor ran this year from January 26 - March 29, airing every Friday. The show was notable for the caliber of its contestants. All of them were competing to be in the next big boy band, which came with a 2-year contract and 100 million KRW.
Ultimately, Jay Chang, Seunghun, Bitsaeon, and Kim Minseo walked away with the grand prize and plans to debut under the name B.D.U. (or Boys Define Universe). However, the third place team made a significant impact on audiences with their swoon-worthy emotional ballads.
That group consisted of Up10tion Sunyoul, Wumuti, Kang Ha Yoon, and Choi Su Hwan. The quartet was so popular with their performances of “Someday” and “Now” during the semi-final and final respectively that Lynna Entertainment announced that they would continue to be together as a group entitled WATERFIRE.
The group’s fandom name is “For : rest” – or, in Korean, 숲 : 휴식을 위한. The name reflects the group’s intent: “We hope our songs bring relaxation.” And indeed they do. If WATERFIRE’s last two show performances and debut single are any indication, they’re primed to become the next masters of epic and romantic ballads.
They officially debuted May 30th, 2024 with the single “POSSIBLE.” Each bandmate’s management companies are throwing their weight behind the four of them, having formed a joint corporate venture called Waterfire Company specifically for them.
WATERFIRE is certainly a different flavor compared to all the other K-pop groups as of late. They’re slowing things down, chilling things out, and speaking to the mind and soul instead of moving audiences through their bodies. It’s a breath of fresh air, and is definitely bringing us relaxation. What do you think?