A rare male idol duo has arrived in the music scene! FLARE U is making their official debut, riding the wave of popularity from ‘Boys 2 Planet’.
FLARE U (Choi Rip-woo, Kang Woo-jin) held a debut showcase for their first mini album ‘YOUTH ERROR’ on the 13th at the Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
Choi Rip-woo and Kang Woo-jin previously caught the public’s eye with their stunning visuals and talent on Mnet’s ‘Boys 2 Planet’ last year.
Unfortunately, they finished in 10th and 16th place, respectively, missing out on the final debut group AlphaDriveOne. After returning to their agency, FNC Entertainment, the two formed the male duo FLARE U, becoming the first official derivative group from ‘Boys 2 Planet’.
Choi Rip-woo, who had solo experience before the debut, shared his feelings. “I was happy to achieve good results during my solo activities. However, I felt lonely working alone, so I’m much less lonely now that I have a friend by my side,” he said.
Kang Woo-jin also expressed his thoughts on the debut, saying, “I felt sorry toward the fans because there were no activities after the program. I’ve been practicing hard while waiting to promote as a derivative group.”
The title track ‘WAY 2 U’ captures the fluttering excitement of realizing feelings for a friend, triggered by a sudden emotion like a phone vibration, and rushing toward them without hesitation.
Choi Rip-woo showed confidence, stating, “As soon as I heard the song, I felt it had a refreshing and cute vibe, so I think the fans will love it.”
The two also highlighted the perks of being a duo. Kang Woo-jin explained, “One advantage is that coordinating opinions is quick and easy. Makeup time is shorter, and we each get more parts.”
Choi Rip-woo added, “I love that the narrative of complementing each other’s weaknesses to become complete is clearly visible.”
FLARE U named the legendary duo AKMU as their role models. Kang Woo-jin said, “They are similar to the vibe we pursue. I’ve always wanted to be like them in how they truly enjoy the stage and express their own stories through music.”
Choi Rip-woo also shared, “They are seniors I truly respect. I’ve always found comfort in their music, so we want to become that kind of presence for others as well.”
When asked about seniors they want to do challenges with, they mentioned TWICE. Choi Rip-woo expressed his wish, “I’ve always been a fan. I’d love to do a challenge with TWICE sunbaenims at least once after debuting.” He added a laugh by saying, “I want to do them with my ‘Boys 2 Planet’ friends and even with FNC General Manager Han Sung-ho.”
Meanwhile, FLARE U will officially begin their promotions today at 6 PM, releasing all tracks from their first mini album ‘YOUTH ERROR’ across various online music platforms.
