2025 Idol Star Athletics Championships: Chuseok Special
Thrilling Penalty Shoot-Outs, Ssireum, Pistol Shooting, and Dancesport Highlights
Penalty Shoot-Out Semifinals: RIIZE vs. NOWZ
The 2025 Idol Star Athletics Championships kicked off with an electrifying penalty shoot-out, showcasing the skills of K-pop idols in a high-stakes soccer showdown. In the first semifinal match, RIIZE faced off against NOWZ, with each team vying for a spot in the finals.
SUNGCHAN, dubbed the "Lewandowski of Nonhyeon-dong," started strong for RIIZE but had his shot blocked by NOWZ's goalkeeper, Jinhyuk. Yeonwoo, the "Shadow Striker," also faced a block, keeping the score tight. However, SOHEE (Neheemar) and Kylian Yoonbappe turned the tide with successful goals, leading RIIZE to a commanding 4-2 victory, securing their place in the finals.
Penalty Shoot-Out Semifinals: LUCY vs. NCT WISH
The second semifinal saw LUCY take on NCT WISH in a nail-biting contest. SHIN YE CHAN opened with a sharp goal for LUCY, but NCT WISH's YUSHI and JAEHEE responded with powerful shots. Despite LUCY's efforts, NCT WISH clinched a 4-3 victory, setting up an all-SM Entertainment final against RIIZE.
The match was described as "the final that happened too soon," with both teams showcasing skills worthy of a championship showdown. NCT WISH's YUSHI sealed the win with a decisive goal, proving their mettle under pressure.
Penalty Shoot-Out Finals: RIIZE vs. NCT WISH
The penalty shoot-out finals were a clash of titans within SM Entertainment. SUNGCHAN of RIIZE delivered a powerful opening shot, while NCT WISH's YUSHI responded with a mocking yet effective goal. The match remained intense, with both teams trading psychological warfare and precise shots. Ultimately, NCT WISH emerged victorious with a 4-3 score, claiming the penalty shoot-out crown.
Men's Ssireum: A Battle of Strength
The men's ssireum preliminaries brought raw power to the forefront. AMPERS and ONE upset CRAVITY with a 2-1 victory, thanks to MACKIAH's impressive outer leg throw. Meanwhile, LUCY dominated TEMPEST, with CHO WON SANG earning the nickname "paper doll" yet securing a win. 82MAJOR showcased their prowess against n.SSign, and NouerA outmaneuvered NEXZ to advance.
In the semifinals, AMPERS and ONE faced LUCY, with Yoon Si Yun clinching a hard-fought victory in overtime. 82MAJOR overpowered NouerA, with Cho Seong Il earning MVP buzz for his perfect blend of strength and technique.
The finals saw 82MAJOR dominate AMPERS and ONE with a swift 2-0 victory, cementing their status as ssireum champions.
Women's Pistol Shooting: Precision Under Pressure
The women's pistol shooting event was a test of composure and accuracy. In the semifinals, Hearts2Hearts defeated ILLIT with a score of 11-17, led by JUUN and JIWOO's consistent high scores. MEOVV outshot STAYC 17-3, with GAWON earning praise for her professional-level posture.
In the finals, MEOVV faced Hearts2Hearts in a thrilling showdown. GAWON's steady 8.7 and 9.4 scores helped MEOVV secure a 17-11 victory, earning them the title of "The Queen of Shooting."
Dancesport: A Showcase of Elegance and Skill
The dancesport event was a highlight, blending athleticism with artistry. XIAOTING of Kep1er, the 2022 gold medalist, set the bar high with a James Bond-themed performance, scoring an impressive 26.5 points. E.JI of ICHILLIN' followed with a captivating vampire-themed routine, earning 25.8 points but falling just short of dethroning XIAOTING.
XIAOTING's seamless twist turns and emotional rumba solidified her as the reigning dancing queen, with her performance garnering praise for its cinematic quality and technical precision.
Why the 2025 ISAC Chuseok Special Stands Out
The 2025 Idol Star Athletics Championships Chuseok Special was a celebration of K-pop idols' athletic prowess and stage presence. From the heart-pounding penalty shoot-outs to the strategic ssireum matches, precise pistol shooting, and mesmerizing dancesport performances, the event showcased the versatility and dedication of these stars. Standout moments included NCT WISH's penalty shoot-out triumph, 82MAJOR's ssireum dominance, MEOVV's shooting precision, and XIAOTING's dancesport mastery.
Fans can relive these moments and look forward to more thrilling competitions in Episode 3, airing tomorrow!