The K-pop world was abuzz with anticipation and excitement as RIIZE, the first boy group formed by SM Entertainment in seven years, took the stage for their debut showcase. Their single “Get a Guitar” was just the beginning of the surprises they had in store. The boy group also unveiled their official fandom name, “SUNZ,” a revelation that was met with a fair amount of controversy.
[🎥] 230904 #RIIZE announced the official fanclub name, SUNZ at RIIZING DAY : RIIZE PREMIERE Debut Showcase #RIIZE #라이즈 #RISEandREALIZE#EUNSEOK #은석 pic.twitter.com/oM0EmIOwCW
— SES Updates (@SES_Updates) September 4, 2023
The choice of “SUNZ” as the fandom name soon became a point of contention. When combined with the group’s name it bore an undeniable resemblance to the term “rising sun.” Netizens freaked out when they realized this. That term is associated with a controversial flag flown by Japan during its colonial era. As such, the flag has become a symbol with strong negative connotations in some parts of Asia, including Korea and China, due to its historical ties to Japanese imperialism and militarism.
230904 RIIZE OFFICIAL FANCLUB NAME ANNOUNCED!
<SUNZ>#RIIZE #라이즈 #RISEandREALIZE#SUNZ #썬즈 @RIIZE_official pic.twitter.com/sJ64J4ga9Z
— RIIZE PHILIPPINES (@WeRIIZEPH) September 4, 2023
Recognizing the sensitivity of the issue, RIIZE took to their official fan club platform to address the concerns. They stated, “Amidst a lot of support from fans, RIIZE announced their official fan club name upon their debut last September 4. We introduced the fan club name ‘SUNZ,’ which fans supported the most, but there are opinions from fans who are concerned that it may unintentionally sound negative. SUNZ’s good meaning of growing together with RIIZE could be distorted. We’ll be changing the fanclub name to BRIIZE, which received the second most amount of votes.”
RIIZE gave the fans three choices
Initially, the boy group presented fans with three potential names they were supposed to pick from. “SUNZ” symbolized the sun, representing a commitment to always shine alongside the boys and grow to great heights. The next choice, “WIISH,” was a combination of the words “WITH” and “WISH.” It captured the fans’ desire to grow with RIIZE and fulfill their shared dreams of success. Finally, “BRIIZE” conjured the image of a gentle breeze, indicating unwavering support for RIIZE‘s journey and a pledge to accompany them wherever they go.
230903 RIIZE Inkigayo Pre-rec
More details regarding fanclub name talks:
Sungchan said for him personally, Briize is the smoothest to say😂
"Sunz is slightly like a snack brand name, this is sunchipz though!😂"
Sungchan also said that he want to call us quickly🥺#RIIZE #라이즈 pic.twitter.com/ihv7OnuIIy— ama (@drsmoments) September 2, 2023
In a series of social media posts, member Sungchan shared his personal thoughts on the names. He expressed a preference for “BRIIZE” because he felt it rolled off the tongue easily. He also made fun of “SUNZ,” likening it to the name of a snack brand.
![[BE ORIGINAL] RIIZE(라이즈) 'Get A Guitar' (4K)](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jIG4AaIy-5k/hqdefault.jpg)
[BE ORIGINAL] RIIZE(라이즈) ‘Get A Guitar’ (4K)
With the new name “BRIIZE” in place, the group looks forward to a fresh start, with their official fan club set to open on September 12th KST. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: RIIZE is eager to grow with BRIIZE by their side. Source: Twitter/@melon.