CNBLUE's Jung Yong Hwa and Ha Seong Woon reveal their criteria for ”STEAL HEART CLUB” evaluation... ”We need to be confident that it's the best”

The four directors of "STEAL HEART CLUB" have revealed their evaluation criteria.

Scheduled to premiere on 21st October, Mnet's STEAL HEART CLUB is a global band survival show where individual participants across diverse positions – including guitar, drums, bass, vocals, and keyboard – gather to challenge themselves towards forming the final headline band.
Actress Moon Ga-young will serve as the MC and 'band curator', while CNBLUE's Jung Yong-hwa, Lee Jang-won, Sonu Jung-ah, and Ha Sung-woon join as the four directors, supporting the participants' growth with their unique experience and philosophy.

Yonghwa shared his thoughts on joining as a director for STEAL HEART CLUB, stating, "It's thrilling and heart-fluttering to witness the birth of a wonderful band." Observing the participants, he remarked, "Seeing their earnest dedication to music reminded me of my own musical beginnings," adding, "Though still rough around the edges, I'm very excited to see what kind of band they'll become once polished."

When evaluating participants, he emphasised, "I focus on their serious attitude towards music and the aura they project on stage." He advised, "As important as skill is confidence and flexibility. For music, you must have the conviction that 'I am the best'."

Regarding his participation as a director at a time when band music is regaining prominence, Lee Jang-won stated, "I truly believe the era of band music has arrived. I want to generously share my band experience with the juniors." He stressed the importance of teamwork, saying, "Ensemble is fundamental to band music." He explained, "Those who know when to shine themselves and when to let their friends shine – such balanced participants ultimately look the most beautiful on stage."

Given the audition format's demands for rapidly delivering polished performances, he highlighted the "importance of sound checks before performances," stating, "The will to meticulously prepare the stage, even in a short time, is the greatest weapon."

Sonu Jeong-ah revealed her aspirations: "Though I'm a solo artist, I've made music in band formats since childhood, so band activities feel the most natural musical form to me. I want to offer participants broad, varied advice." Reflecting on her first impressions of the contestants, she said, "Everyone sparkled in their own way. More than nervousness, their eager enthusiasm was striking."

She continued, "More important than raw talent is the aura they exude and their potential for growth," adding, "Above all, the genuine 'desire to do this' is paramount. If our hearts are aligned in the same direction, we can overcome any difficulty together." She also shared, "I genuinely loved the sound on set, so much so that I forgot I was filming. I think watching the broadcast in an environment where you can really feel the sound of the various instruments will make it far more interesting."

Finally, Ha Sung-woon stated, "It's an honour to participate alongside respected seniors. I want to offer substantial help to the participants based on my past experience."

He noted, "All the participants possessed diverse and intense personalities," explaining that when guiding or evaluating them, he "focuses on their stage presence and potential for growth." He added, "I plan to point out the elements that captivate the audience, such as stage movements and expressions, and help boost their energy." He particularly emphasised repeatedly, "Attitude is paramount. Those with a good attitude will ultimately develop their skills. After all, a band is about people making music together."

Meanwhile, Mnet's global band-making survival show STEAL HEART CLUB will commence broadcasting on 21st October.