On the August 3 broadcast of the SM Entertainment boy group survival program 'NCT Universe : LASTART', the contestants received their first round mission rankings. 

[SPOILERS AHEAD]

Following the performances aired on last week's episode, contestants Minjae, Jungmin, Kassho, Heitetsu, Riku, Ryu, Sakuya, and Ryo showcased their duo stages on this day. While Minjae and Jungmin successfully demonstrated their vocal abilities in front of the directors, the two received the critique that the stage felt too tense. Kassho and Heitetsu also received negative feedback for their lack of attention to smaller details.

The next duo, made up of Riku and Ryu, garnered interest for their odd pairing. Riku had spent a year as an SM Entertainment trainee, while Ryu had only spent 2 weeks as a trainee before being selected to appear on the survival program. The two then went on to receive positive feedback for their "Fire" stage. 

Finally, after the contestants wrapped up all of their first round stages, the top 4 rankings were revealed. 

Riku, who had received praise for his charming rap and performance, earned 1st place in the first round. Anderson received 2nd place, Jungmin received 3rd place, and Ryo, 4th place. As a benefit for ranking in the top 4, Riku, Anderson, Jungmin, and Ryo earned a chance to participate in a 'debut team' profile shoot with Sion and Yushi, who are already fixed members of the NCT Tokyo team. 

Beginning next week, the contestants will begin their second round mission, a battle of hit SM title tracks. 

Have you been tuning into the competition on 'NCT Universe : LASTART'?