Blue & Grey

Kim Jiwoong

The journey Jiwoong had traversed was known not only to the devoted Zeroses but also resonated within the members of ZEROBASEONE. For Yujin, comprehending the challenges Jiwoong faced was unfathomable, especially considering the fact that Jiwoong was once his age when Jiwoong embarked on his pursuit of the same dream.

The first time Yujin met Jiwoong was during the Star Level Test, he was this handsome man with an air of experience and determination that Yujin found both intimidating and inspiring. Jiwoong's presence exuded a quiet strength, a testament to the years he had spent chasing his passion. Yujin remembered how Jiwoong's gaze held a depth of wisdom, as if every setback and triumph had been etched into his eyes, a silent testament to his resilience.

Their inaugural performance together marked the moment Jiwoong selected Yujin for his team, which eventually evolved into the Back Door Team. Yujin faced considerable challenges at that time, leaving him perplexed about why Jiwoong singled him out from the pool of 96 other trainees.

Despite the age gap, Jiwoong never made Yujin feel like he was just a kid. Instead, he treated Yujin as an equal, guiding him through the complexities of the trainee life with patience and understanding. Yujin often found himself marveling at Jiwoong's dedication, watching how he approached each rehearsal and mentoring session with unwavering focus and commitment.

Jiwoong rarely spoke about his own hardships, but there were moments, fleeting and subtle, where Yujin caught glimpses of the struggles hidden behind Jiwoong's composed facade. It was in the tired lines etched around his eyes after late-night practices, or the way he would offer silent encouragement to his younger counterparts during moments of self-doubt.

Yujin admired Jiwoong not just for his talent but for the quiet resilience and unwavering determination he exhibited, qualities that often left Yujin in awe. Despite the challenges Jiwoong had faced on his journey to that point, he continued to push forward, setting an example for Yujin and the rest of the members to follow.

Then, triumphantly, their hard work culminated in a significant win for their stage. They were rewarded with the opportunity to perform on MCountdown and record for STUDIO CHOOM, monumental milestones that brought realization to Yujin. It was during these experiences that he realized the magnitude of Jiwoong's sacrifices and the depth of his dedication. But also,

How cute this hyung is.

Of course Yujin had nothing but respect for their leader back then, Yujin even found himself looking up to Jiwoong even more. Despite Jiwoong's experiences and the weight of his journey, he maintained this infectious charm and warmth that made him endearing to everyone, especially Yujin. There was this playful side to Jiwoong that emerged during their practice breaks, offering a sense of camaraderie and fun that eased the tension of their intense training.

Seeing Jiwoong's softer side was endearing to Yujin. He would catch glimpses of Jiwoong goofing around, pulling playful pranks, or intentionally do aegyo just to lighten the mood. This contrast between Jiwoong's dedication and his ability to break the ice with humor and warmth made him an even more cherished presence within the group. Yujin had a silly and reliable hyung.

Yujin often found himself smiling at Jiwoong's antics, realizing that behind the composed and focused demeanor lay a heart full of warmth and a playful spirit. It was moments like these that made the bond between them grow stronger, fostering not just mentorship but also a genuine friendship that transcended their roles as senior and junior within ZEROBASEONE.

They met again in Say My Name team and Yujin couldn't resist goading his hyung into showcasing more of his newfound adorableness, fully aware that Jiwoong might feel uneasy, yet equally confident that he wouldn't refuse him.