In a compelling display of burgeoning fan power, next-generation hopefuls Choi Lip-woo and Kang Woo-jin have secured a resounding victory in the global fandom platform UPICK’s ‘May Comeback/Debut Idol’ poll. The duo, poised for their official debut this May, emerged triumphant from a competitive field that included established acts like ALPHADRIVEONE (ALD1) and CORTIS, alongside fellow rising stars BOYNEXTDOOR, who are celebrating their debut anniversary.
The voting, conducted from April 3rd to April 14th, saw Choi Lip-woo and Kang Woo-jin garner an astounding 26,019,615 votes. This overwhelming mandate not only cemented their first-place position but also underscored the immense anticipation surrounding their official entry into the K-pop landscape.
Their journey to this significant milestone began with their formation through the popular survival show ‘Boys 2 Planet,’ where their undeniable talent and charisma first captivated audiences. More recently, the pair showcased their delightful chemistry as the ‘DJ of the Month’ for MBC FM4U’s ‘Chin Chin Broadcasting Club’ in March, further solidifying their appeal and demonstrating their versatile capabilities beyond just singing.
With their May debut now officially announced, Choi Lip-woo and Kang Woo-jin are not slowing down. Adding to the excitement, the duo has also confirmed their participation in the prestigious ‘KCON JAPAN 2026,’ signaling their global ambitions and readiness to connect with a wider international audience. This early-career KCON appearance is a strong indicator of the industry’s confidence in their potential.
As a direct result of their UPICK win, Choi Lip-woo and Kang Woo-jin will receive extensive promotional support. Their May debut schedule will be amplified across all five main banners within the UPICK app. Furthermore, by surpassing the 25-million-vote threshold, they unlocked an additional, highly coveted reward: prominent exposure on a digital signage billboard in Hongdae, a bustling hub of youth culture and K-pop activity in Seoul. This level of early-career promotion is a testament to their dedicated fanbase and the significant buzz they’ve generated, promising an impactful debut that resonates both domestically and internationally.
A representative from UPICK affirmed the platform’s commitment to celebrating artists and their fans, stating, “We will continue to operate this poll to enable various artists, whether anticipating a comeback or a debut anniversary, to commemorate special moments with their fans. We ask for your continued interest and participation.” Indeed, with such a strong foundation laid, all eyes are now on Choi Lip-woo and Kang Woo-jin as they prepare to take their definitive step onto the global K-pop stage.
Reported by Seoul Wire | Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷
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