KOZ Entertainment revealed on December 7 that BOYNEXTDOOR’s Riwoo will be unable to attend KBS’s 2023 Music Bank Global Festival in Japan due to passport and visa issues, preventing him from entering the country. The announcement was made just ahead of the group’s scheduled performance on December 9.

Riwoo Unable To Join BOYNEXTDOOR’s Upcoming Japan Performance

KOZ Entertainment confirmed the news in a statement.

“Due to personal issues with his passport and visa, Riwoo is unable to enter Japan, and so he will not be able to fulfill his schedule [in the country]. We tried to solve the problem through many different methods, but because it was difficult to resolve the issue before the concert, he is currently unable to enter the country,” the statement read.

The 2023 Music Bank Global Festival is a highly anticipated event that showcases a diverse lineup of K-pop artists, attracting fans from around the world. The festival is divided into two parts, with Part 1 airing live from Korea and Part 2 being a pre-recorded show in Japan.

Despite Riwoo’s absence, BOYNEXTDOOR continues to be part of the lineup for the festival, participating in Part 2 alongside other prominent K-pop acts. The group’s participation in the festival highlights their popularity and recognition in the industry.

What to Expect in ‘2023 Music Bank Global Festival’ Japan Leg

The festival will be hosted by MCs Rowoon, Go Min Si, and Lee Young Ji, and it features a star-studded lineup of performers, including ATEEZ, THE BOYZ, ENHYPEN, ITZY, Stray Kids, SHINee, and many more. The festival aims to celebrate the diversity and global appeal of K-pop, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talent to a wider audience.

KBS’s Music Bank Global Festival is a significant event in the K-pop calendar, bringing together top-tier artists for spectacular performances and memorable moments. The festival’s inclusion of both live and pre-recorded segments adds to the excitement, allowing fans to experience the energy and creativity of K-pop acts in different settings.

While Riwoo’s absence is a disappointment for fans, the resilience of BOYNEXTDOOR and their continued participation in such a prestigious event underscores the group’s commitment to their craft and their dedication to connecting with fans worldwide. As the festival unfolds, fans can also look forward to an unforgettable showcase of K-pop excellence and unity.