I.N's Remarkable Journey: Growth in Solo and Group Performances amidst Group Hiccups

I love delving into the evolution of Stray Kids' members, and there are few names whose journey resonates with me more profoundly than I.N. While Hyunjin's unfortunate hiatus due to invalid rumors was a tough period for the group, it also marked a turning point for I.N, a journey that showcases his undeniable growth in both solo and group performances.

Background and Challenges

I.N has often been considered the weakest dancer among the members. This perception was largely due to his relative lack of experience and confidence on the dance floor. However, the opportunity presented by the Kingdom show in May 2021 forced I.N out of his comfort zone. The show necessitated a specific set of performers for the Mayfly section, a segment where Hyunjin was not available.

Not only was I.N not a rapper, but he was also not a vocal group member. The Love Poem performance relied solely on the main vocalists. This left I.N, with his limited dance experience, to join Danceracha, the second dance unit, for the Wolf performance. Whether I.N would have been in the vocal or dance unit if Hyunjin was present is uncertain, but the absence of Hyunjin significantly impacted I.N's participation and performance in group-related dance routines.

Growth and Centering

During the Wolf performance, I.N was part of the opening sequence and dance breaks, including a standout moment with Yeosang ATEEZ. This increased exposure and dedicated time to Danceracha allowed I.N to focus more intently on his dancing skills. He spent significant one-on-one time with Leeknow, learning valuable skills such as enhancing his body awareness, adding more precision to small movements, and achieving better synchronization with his larger movements.

The dedication and hard work paid off in full when I.N showcased his improved dance skills in the Domino group performance. In this routine, I.N participated in a dance break with Han and Leeknow, an impression that most fans (Stay) realized showcased I.N as an all-rounder just like the rest of the group members.

Consistent Growth

This impressive growth in dancing skills is not just a one-off achievement. It has continued throughout the Oddinary and Maxident promotions. Over the past two years, the Stay community has unequivocally agreed that I.N has undergone a dramatic transformation. This growth is a testament to his dedication, learning, and the support he has received from his fellow members and the entire group.

Conclusion

The journey of I.N from being labeled as a weak dancer to becoming a standout performer in group and solo contexts is nothing short of inspiring. His perseverance through tough challenges and his commitment to his craft have made a significant impact on both his personal and group performances. We are all excited to see what the future holds for this dynamic member of Stray Kids.