South Korean dancer and choreographer Bada Lee, known for her electrifying style and viral dance moves, opens up about her meteoric rise in the world of K-pop and the friendships she’s formed along the way.
With a commanding 5’9″ presence, Bada Lee has captured the spotlight, whether through viral fancams with idols like EXO‘s Kai and SHINee’s Taemin or by choreographing some of K-pop’s most iconic dances. Her recent victory on Street Woman Fighter 2 has only further cemented her status in the industry.
Reflecting on her experience leading Team BEBE to victory on the competitive dance show, Bada says, “It felt like a trance.” Despite the team being considered underdogs, she emphasizes that their youthful energy and commitment kept them going. “Winning wasn’t our main goal,” she adds. “It was about pushing forward together.”
Bada Lee’s unique style went viral when her “Smoke” Challenge — set to the song “Smoke (Prod. Dynamic Duo, Padi)” — captivated fans and idols alike, with BTS’s V and Jungkook, along with members of NCT and ITZY, joining in. “It was challenging, but seeing the love it received was incredibly rewarding,” she says.
Balancing her role on Street Woman Fighter 2 with her work as a choreographer, Bada continued to contribute to K-pop hits, including aespa’s “Drama” and Taemin’s “Guilty.” Her commitment to both aspects of her career speaks to her desire to “catch two rabbits” — excelling as both a dancer and choreographer.
In her personal life, Bada has formed close bonds with K-pop stars, particularly Kai, whom she has worked with since his solo debut. She also shares a connection with BTS’s V and her friend GOF, forming a group called “95z” that celebrates their mutual love of dance and creativity.
Through it all, Bada Lee remains driven by her love for dance. “I want everyone watching my performances to be drawn in, as if they’re dancing with me,” she says. “When they leave, I hope they can think of nothing but the experience.”
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