FLARE U is a duo consisting of Choi Rip-woo and Kang Woo-jin, who both proved their skills and potential on last year’s Mnet show ‘Boys 2 Planet’. On May 13, they held a showcase at Blue Square in Hannam-dong, Seoul, to announce their official start with the release of their first mini album, ‘YOUTH ERROR’. Choi Rip-woo shared, “I’m so excited and thrilled to show a new side of myself in a group after starting as a solo. I want to work hard and show a great side of myself since so many people are cheering for us.” Kang Woo-jin added, “I’m so happy and grateful to finally make the debut I’ve always dreamed of.”
The team name FLARE U represents the moment two sparkles meet to create a single light. Regarding their debut album, Kang Woo-jin explained, “It contains the story of youth, including making mistakes, falling, and having different errors. It depicts the process of Choi Rip-woo and Kang Woo-jin meeting as a team, complementing each other, and shining together as one light.”
They also talked about their experience performing at ‘KCON Japan 2026’ before their official debut. Choi Rip-woo said, “As a rookie group, it was an honor and a precious experience to stand on such a big stage before debuting. It was special to be with amazing seniors and a wonderful memory to be with friends I worked with on the show.” Kang Woo-jin added, “It was an honor to perform on a large stage before our official debut. I prepared very hard and really enjoyed it. However, no matter how hard I prepare, there always seems to be some regret on stage. I’ll prepare even harder next time to minimize those regrets.”
They also mentioned ‘Boys 2 Planet’, the catalyst for the team’s formation. Kang Woo-jin said, “Fans must have waited since there was no news for a while after the ‘Boys 2 Planet’ fan meeting, but we were working hard to prepare this derivative group. While the program was challenging physically and mentally at first, experiencing it became an opportunity to grow both mentally and in terms of skill. I think I’m in this position today because of that program.”
Being a male-male duo is a key point of differentiation for FLARE U. Kang Woo-jin noted, “One advantage of being a duo is that coordinating opinions is easy and fast. Compared to other groups, hair and makeup time is shorter, and having more parts each is also a plus.” Choi Rip-woo agreed, “Since we have more parts, I think we can better showcase our individuality. There aren’t many idol duos lately, so I believe this is our strength. I think there’s a beautiful picture of two different characters meeting, complementing each other, and completing one another.”
They further shared, “Our unique point is that we are a group of two imperfect youths. We want to show that when fans join us, a single light is created. Everyone has flaws, and we believe that is what makes it cool and beautiful.”
They also revealed their ambitions for their debut. Choi Rip-woo said, “I want to be known as a ‘Vitamin Vending Machine’. These days, people take vitamins as a daily essential, and we want to be like that. I hope you can get energy from us whenever you want or need it.”
Kang Woo-jin said, “Just like our name FLARE U, I want us to be a team where two people meet to create one light. I want us to approach people with music that many can relate to.” Choi Rip-woo added, “Since we’re rookies, I also have a desire to win a rookie award.”
