At last, the week 7 live broadcast of Project I.O.A began. On the stage unfolding before my eyes, Song Mi-Hee—who had been on my back just moments ago—stood there calmly smiling as she prepared for the first full-group intro performance.0

At that moment, Kim Jung-Joo, standing at the center of the massive stage, raised his microphone and spoke.0

"Before we begin, let me explain the changes for this week. Starting from this round, one team will be eliminated each week. Also, as we transition to live broadcasts, we will now have a live audience every week. Additionally, the total score has been increased from 200 points to 300 points.0

"For the first team battle, 150 points will consist of 30 points from the judges, 20 points from the live audience and 100 points from online voting. Of course, the second individual battle will follow the same ratio, totaling 150 points as well. Since both battles can receive an additional bonus of 10 points each, the theoretical maximum score is 320 points. We've increased the scoring to better reflect the opinions of you, the viewers, rather than just the judges.0

"For more detailed information, please check our homepage and the official app, [PROJECT : I.O.A].0

"Now then, let's begin. Out of the eight teams who made it through the tough preliminaries, which seven teams will advance to next week?0

"That decision is in your hands! Starting now, we open week 7 of Project I.O.A with today's group song, 'Toward the Dream!'0

"Please welcome them with a big round of applause!"0

As Kim Jung-Joo's booming voice rang out, the 2,000 audience members erupted into applause and cheers.0

Waaah!0

I had been deep in thought, trying to figure out how to protect...0