Lee Young Ji's intense competitive spirit intimidates An Yu Jin in 'Space Rice Cake Shop' debut

IVE's An Yu Jin has surrendered to Lee Young Ji's extraordinary preparation and overwhelming presence.

In the premiere of the tvN variety program 'Space Rice Cake Shop' airing on the 31st, Lee Eun-ji, Mimi, Lee Young Ji, and An Yu Jin—who have teamed up to start a rice cake business—will engage in a fierce cooking battle to claim the single position of main chef.

'Space Rice Cake Shop' is a project born from the penalty the four members received after falling into Torong's trap in the tvN variety show 'Earth Arcade 2'. The group will open the first Earth branch of a fictional space rice cake shop headquartered on the moon in Goheung, Jeollanam-do, embarking on a mission to operate a unique shop that connects space and Korea.

The core of this competition is the 'Main Chef' position. Because the winner is granted privileges that go beyond a simple title—including the power to command absolute obedience from the other members—the four show intense competitive spirit from the very start.

However, an unexpected variable appears at the first hurdle. As the identity of the mysterious judge is revealed, the set instantly falls into chaos.

Lee Eun-ji drew laughter by protesting loudly, shouting, "This is corruption!", while Lee Young Ji appeared flustered, pleading, "Do it with someone else," raising curiosity about the hidden relationship between the judge and the members.

The most eye-catching figure is Lee Young Ji. Ahead of the cooking battle, she instantly dominates the atmosphere by showcasing extraordinary preparation and unique ideas. As she reveals her stunning visuals and a secret weapon, even her competitor An Yu Jin expressed intimidation, saying, "I'm too intimidated to do this way.""

Attention is focused on what results Lee Young Ji's unconventional competitive style will produce, especially after making the bright and confident An Yu Jin so nervous.

While everyone focuses on creating innovative rice cake dishes, an unexpected crisis strikes Mimi. A key point of interest will be whether Mimi can overcome this hurdle and present her own menu while working against a limited clock.

'Space Rice Cake Shop' adds new missions of cooking and entrepreneurship to the powerful chemistry the four members displayed in the 'Earth Arcade' series. Expectations are high for the chaotic rice cake shop challenge led by these representative 'tension masters' of the variety world.