BOYNEXTDOOR, under HYBE's sub-label KOZ, and NCT WISH, under SM Entertainment, both debuted last year and have garnered significant attention in the K-pop scene as ambitious rookie groups from Korea’s leading entertainment agencies. While they both demonstrate strong determination as rookies, they express their boldness in distinctly different ways. BOYNEXTDOOR, as friendly and approachable as ever, brings a familiar vibe that feels like close friends, while NCT WISH captivates the audience with their stylish and innovative approach. Let’s take a closer look at the bold aspirations of these two boy groups, whose fiery passion continues unabated, like the lingering heat of summer.
Six Nice Guys Who Have Come to Win Over the Girls Next Door! BOYNEXTDOOR’s ‘Nice Guy’
True to their name, BOYNEXTDOOR is not a group that focuses on glamor. Instead, they charm with their approachable, neighborhood-friend image and easy-listening music style. This time, however, they’ve set out to win over the ‘girls next door’. The title track 'Nice Guy' from their third mini album [19.99] is an unprecedented showcase of self-love, starting with the provocative line "Seoul is mine tonight" and featuring a blend of tough yet irresistibly cute self-praise from the members. Produced by Pop Time, the groovy beat eaturing prominent brass elements and addictive melody, combined with the group’s signature playful singing style, preserves BOYNEXTDOOR’s distinct charm intact.
Their commercial success, reflected in the song's rise on domestic music charts, can be attributed not only to its catchy tune but also to the distinct concept and the members’ exceptional ability to bring it to life. The choreography, featuring body-sweeping moves in sync with the lyrics, along with their vibrant expressions full of charm, sweep away the confused emotions presented in previous hits like 'But I Like You' or 'One and Only'. Instead, it highlights their boldness, suggesting that they could win over the world if they wanted to. This is also read as a confident declaration from the group, signaling their intent to captivate a wider audience in the K-pop scene. With a more mature identity and liberated expression, BOYNEXTDOOR cheerfully showcases their confidence in this song as they step into their twenties.
A Dazzling Leap Through the Basketball Hoop, NCT WISH’s ‘Dunk Shot’
While leading with a refreshing brightness, the group’s signature ‘Neo’ energy is subtly woven throughout. The synth-driven sound and punchy drum beats exude the fresh energy of young dreamers. The electronic sounds in the chorus, reminiscent of their previous track ‘WISH’, combined with the dynamic yet cohesive choral vocals, showcase the group’s evolved sound. This is the pre-release single 'Dunk Shot' from NCT WISH’s first mini album [Steady - The 1st Mini Album], the final sub-unit of NCT, SM’s multinational boy group. The members embrace the basketball team concept, following EXO’s rugby-themed 'LOVE ME RIGHT' and NCT U’s ice hockey-themed '90’s Love'. As they confidently sing “The world is a court / Throw it like a ball”, they boldly express their aspirations for their debut EP.
The music video, portraying the narrative of a basketball game and the struggles along the way, exudes the charm of a high-teen drama. The members’ commanding stage presence, executing intricate choreography with flawless precision, is also impressive. Dressed in sporty uniforms, they perform dynamic and energetic dance moves inspired by basketball shots and dribbling, showcasing their strong teamwork with group choreography that makes full use of wide spaces. Their powerful vocals, built on strong fundamentals, further demonstrate their skills, faithfully responding to the ambitious vision behind the group. With its sophisticated sound and polished song backing them up, NCT WISH’s ‘Dunk Shot’ delivers a thrilling and powerful ascent.
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