In the hyper-competitive arena of K-pop, where rookies often struggle to carve out a distinct identity among a sea of polished choreography and synth-heavy hooks, the boy band Be Boys is attempting a different play. By aligning their latest creative direction with the grit and underdog spirit of a legendary sports manga, the group is betting that authenticity and raw determination will resonate more than perfection.
The group recently unveiled their latest project, the boy band Be Boys ‘Slam Dunk’ single, as part of their first single album titled “BE: 2.” Released on Wednesday, the track signals a pivot toward a “bolder, more hip” image, moving away from the tentative steps of their debut year and leaning into a sound and story rooted in persistence.
During a press showcase held in Seoul’s Mapo District on April 15, the members described the release as a reflection of their own trajectory. For a group nearing its first anniversary, the metaphor of a basketball player fighting through a defense to score is more than just a lyrical theme; it is a description of their current standing in the industry.
Drawing inspiration from the court and the page
The thematic centerpiece of the new release is its connection to Slam Dunk, the seminal Japanese sports manga written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue between 1990, and 1996. The series, which follows the journey of a delinquent-turned-basketball-player, has long been a touchstone for narratives about growth and resilience in East Asia.
Be Boys specifically drew parallels between their own rookie status and the manga’s protagonist, Hanamichi Sakuragi. Like Sakuragi, who entered the world of basketball with zero experience but an abundance of confidence, the group views their own “inexperience” as a source of strength rather than a liability.
“The main character might be lacking in skills, but he is fearless — and when it comes to confidence, he never falls behind,” said member Woncheon, noting that he drew significant inspiration from Sakuragi’s character although preparing for the track.
Musically, the group has opted for a boom-bap hip-hop style for “Slam Dunk.” This choice reflects a desire to move toward a more grounded, rhythmic sound that mirrors the physical intensity of the sport. According to their agency, Oak Company, the lyrics are designed to reflect the group’s determination to “aim high and press forward.”
A diverse lineup and a grueling climb
Beyond the music, Be Boys carries a narrative of personal resilience that mirrors the themes of their songs. The six-member lineup—consisting of Goohyun, Minjoon, Yunseo, Hakseong, Takuma, and Woncheon—is notably diverse in its backgrounds. Most striking is the presence of Hakseong, a North Korean defector who fled the regime in 2017 to seek a new life in the South.
This background adds a layer of gravity to the group’s messaging about “never giving up.” The path from defection to the K-pop stage is an extraordinary trajectory, embodying the incredibly “odds” the group claims to be fighting against.
The physical and mental toll of this climb was evident in the members’ descriptions of their preparation for “BE: 2.” Minjoon described a regimen that pushed the boundaries of typical idol training, noting that the group often worked from 11 a.m. Until 5 a.m. The following morning, combining intense dance practice with strict dieting and gym sessions.
In a moment of levity during the showcase, Minjoon admitted that the group’s motivation was fueled by two things: their fans, known as Beaver, and the promise of a celebratory meal. “The two things that kept us going were our fans, Beaver, and something we kept repeating to each other — ‘We will finally get to eat samgyeopsal [pork belly] after this,’” he said.
The road to the first anniversary
The release of “BE: 2” marks a pivotal moment in the group’s early timeline. Having debuted just under a year ago, the group is utilizing this single to bridge the gap between their initial introduction and their first anniversary. Their discography thus far shows a steady progression of releases designed to test different sonic waters.
| Release Title | Format | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| BE: 1 | Debut EP | June (Previous Year) |
| Earth and Moon | Digital Single | November (Previous Year) |
| BE: 2 (Slam Dunk) | Single Album | April 15 |
For Be Boys, the goal is to create “explosive synergy” by leaning into the distinctive personalities of each member. As Hakseon noted during the showcase, the intent is for the public to see a team that refuses to stagnate. “I hope people will see that we’re a team that never gives up and always keeps pushing ahead,” he said.
As the group moves toward their first full year in the industry, the success of the boy band Be Boys ‘Slam Dunk’ single will likely depend on whether their blend of manga-inspired confidence and hip-hop grit can capture a wider audience beyond their dedicated “Beaver” fanbase. With their first anniversary approaching, the group is expected to continue their promotional cycle for “BE: 2” through upcoming music program appearances and fan engagements.
What do you think of Be Boys’ shift toward a boom-bap sound and manga inspiration? Share your thoughts in the comments or let us know on social media.
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