Baek Gu-young Wins 'SDPA' Finale, Earns Special Opportunity to Direct 'MAMA' Opening

Final Result: 2nd Place Casper, 3rd Place BabyZoo, 4th Place BadaChoreographer Baek Gu-young has been crowned the ultimate winner of Mnet's survival program 'Street World Fighter: Director's War'. /Mnet[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Choreographer Baek Gu-young lifted the final trophy for 'Street World Fighter: Director's War'.Mnet's survival program 'Street World Fighter: Director's War' (hereinafter referred to as 'SDF') concluded with its live finale on the 20th. After a final competition among the TOP4 Bada, Baek Gu-young, BabyZoo, and Casper, Baek Gu-young emerged as the final winner.The final mission of 'SDF' was the 'Cheer Performance Mission,' which involved interpreting sports cheering through dance. Baek Gu-young presented a message of never being alone, using marathon as his theme. Bada depicted the solitary struggle of a swimmer, while BabyZoo portrayed the intense competition of fencing through dance. Casper brought to life the dynamic team fights of the esports game 'League of Legends' on a vibrant stage.As a result, Baek Gu-young took first place, Casper second, BabyZoo third, and Bada fourth. Upon hearing his name called, winner Baek Gu-young was overcome with emotion and shed tears. As a K-pop performance director and a veteran choreographer with 24 years of experience, he fully showcased his extensive experience and seasoned directing skills on 'SDF'.Following his selection as the main director for the title sequence film of the official title track 'Royalty,' he demonstrated a strong presence in every mission, including the 'Solo Artist Direct Mission,' 'Super Kids Direct Mission,' and 'Last Stage: 24H.' Notably, he overcame the disappointment of not making it to the finals in 'Street Man Fighter' four years ago, achieving a valuable victory this time.Mnet's survival program 'Street World Fighter: Director's War' concluded on the 20th. /MnetBaek Gu-young shared his tearful thoughts, saying, "As a dancer, there has always been an emptiness in a corner of my heart, as if a piece was missing, and I continued to dance. Through 'SMF' and 'SDF,' I gained precious opportunities to showcase my work and put in my best effort. I will continue to do my best to show you even better performances." He also revealed his heartfelt affection for his family, saying, "My father is sick, and I hope he gets well soon."The final winner, Baek Gu-young, will receive the opportunity to direct the opening stage at the '2026 MAMA AWARDS,' a music awards ceremony hosted by CJ ENM, and a refresh trip voucher for a well-deserved break. Additionally, 'SDF' will hold a national tour, 'Street World Fighter: Director's War ON THE STAGE,' with a total of 10 performances in five cities across the country starting in November.'SDF' is a new expansion of Mnet's street dance series, focusing on the stories of performance directors who plan and complete their works, beyond the competition among dancers on stage. It highlighted the importance of the director's role in taking responsibility for the entire creative process, from choreography and dancer selection to movement and stage direction. By vividly capturing the intense worries and choices hidden behind the spectacular performances and the process of creating a single, high-quality performance, it delivered emotion and entertainment to viewers until the very end.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]