The highly anticipated SMTOWN LIVE 2025 concert in Seoul has officially unveiled its exciting lineup, promising a spectacular celebration of SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary.
SMTOWN LIVE 2025 Boasts Star-Studded Lineup
The grand event is set to take place over two days, January 11 and 12, 2025, at the prestigious Gocheok Sky Dome. Known for its star-studded rosters and jaw-dropping performances, SMTOWN LIVE 2025 is no exception, bringing together a stellar lineup of SM Entertainment’s current artists and trainees.
Fans can look forward to seeing legendary acts like H.O.T.’s Kangta, BoA, and TVXQ, alongside globally beloved artists such as Super Junior, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Hyoyeon, SHINee’s Key and Minho, Red Velvet, and EXO’s Suho and Chanyeol.
Additionally, the next generation of SM stars, including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, NCT WISH, nævis, and Raiden, will also grace the stage, showcasing their unique styles and powerful performances. Needless to say, it’s an event that brings together the biggest and brightest stars of K-pop’s most renowned company. Not surprisingly, fans are already looking forward to the concert event early next year.
Adding a fresh touch, performers from SM’s sub-labels, such as the promising SMTR25 (a group of 25 trainees), Mar Vista, SM Jazz Trio, and Min Jiwoon, will bring a variety of captivating performances, further diversifying the event’s offerings.
In a nostalgic twist, SM has teased appearances by members of the SMTOWN Family, featuring artists who have been part of the label’s illustrious 30-year journey. While specific names have yet to be revealed, fans are eagerly speculating on the possibility of seeing reunions with past SM legends.
With its blend of iconic artists, rising stars, and memorable tributes, SMTOWN LIVE 2025 promises to be a landmark celebration of SM Entertainment’s history and its continued impact on K-pop. Stay tuned for updates on additional performers and surprises as the event draws closer!
Seunghan is officially gearing up to debut as a solo artist! The announcement comes almost a month since the shocking RIIZE departure.
Seunghan Preps for Solo Debut After RIIZE Departure
On November 15, SM Entertainment shared exciting news about Seunghan’s future endeavors, confirming that he will make his solo debut in the second half of 2025. This announcement marks a new chapter in his career following his departure from RIIZE earlier this year.
“Seunghan is currently preparing to debut as a solo artist in the second half of 2025, and is receiving full support and guidance across several aspects considered essential for a solo debut including systemized training, producing, management, and more. Moving forth, updates on Seunghan will be shared via his official social media accounts which launched today (November 15th, KST),” the statement read.
“Seunghan is determined to showcase a new side of himself as he embarks on his journey as a solo artist and carries out his talents and dreams. We kindly ask for your warm support and attention as he begins this new chapter,” it concluded.
Seunghan later addressed the decision through a heartfelt letter, expressing the difficulty of parting ways with RIIZE. In his message, he conveyed gratitude to his fans and fellow members for their unwavering support during a challenging period. Despite leaving the group, Seunghan reassured fans that he would continue cheering for RIIZE as they pursue their own path.
Now, Seunghan is ready to embark on a fresh journey as a solo artist under SM Entertainment’s subsidiary, Wizard Production. While details about his debut concept and music style remain under wraps, fans are eagerly awaiting updates, excited to see how Seunghan will showcase his individuality and talent in his new chapter.
Stay tuned for more news on Seunghan’s solo debut in 2025!
The 2024 MAMA Awards is gearing up for an exciting celebration, with its star-studded lineup of performers starting to be revealed!
2024 MAMA Awards Announces First Lineup of Performers
On October 15, the awards show announced the first batch of artists slated to perform, including some of the biggest names in K-pop. The lineup features aespa, ENHYPEN, ILLIT, INI, IVE, KATSEYE, RIIZE, TXT, and ZEROBASEONE, guaranteeing thrilling performances across multiple days.
ILLIT, KATSEYE, and RIIZE are scheduled to perform on the first day of the event, November 21 PST, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
Following that, ENHYPEN, IVE, and TXT will light up the stage on November 22 KST in Japan, performing at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka. Finally, aespa, INI, and ZEROBASEONE will bring their dynamic energy to the stage on November 23 KST at the same venue.
Additionally, the nominees for this year’s awards was announced on the same day. The list of nominees for the 2024 MAMA Awards are:
BIBI – “Bam Yang Gang”
IU – “Love wins all”
Lee Mu Jin – “Episode”
Lim Young Woong – “Warmth”
Taeyeon – “To. X”
Best Vocal Performance Group
AKMU – “Hero”
Davichi – “A very personal story”
(G)I-DLE – “Fate”
PLAVE – “WAY 4 LUV”
Red Velvet – “Cosmic”
Best Band Performance
DAY6 – “Welcome to the Show”
LUCY – “The knight who can’t die and the silk cradle”
N.Flying – “Into You”
Hyukoh, Sunset Rollercoaster – “Young Man”
QWER – “T.B.H”
GroovyRoom – “Yes or No (Feat. Huh Yunjin, Crush)
Jay Park – “Taxi Blurr (Feat. Natty)”
Lee Young Ji – “Small Girl (Feat. D.O.)”
Sung Si Kyung, Naul – “Even for a moment”
Zico – “SPOT! (Feat. Jennie)”
Best OST
Roy Kim – “Whenever, Wherever” (“My Demon” OST)
Lee Chang Sub – “Heavenly fate” (“A Not So Fairy Tale” OST)
ECLIPSE – “Sudden Shower” (“Lovely Runner” OST)
Taeyeon – “Dream” (“Welcome to Samdalri” OST)
Crush – “Love You With All My Heart” (“Queen of Tears” OST)
Best Music Video
aespa – “Armageddon”
K.will – “No Sad Song For My Broken Heart (Prod. Yoon Sang)” IU – “Love wins all”
IVE – “HEYA”
SEVENTEEN – “MAESTRO”
8TURN
AB6IX
ASTRO
ATBO
ATEEZ
B1A4
Baekhyun
BamBam
B.D.U
BOYNEXTDOOR
CRAVITY
DAY6
D.O.
ENHYPEN
EPEX
EVNNE
FTISLAND
Hui
j-hope
Jimin
Jungkook
JUST B
Key
NCT 127
NCT DREAM
NCT WISH
ONEUS
P1Harmony
PLAVE
RIIZE
RM
SEVENTEEN
Stray Kids
Super Junior
Taemin
TEMPEST
THE BOYZ
THE NEW SIX
TIOT
TREASURE
TWS
TXT
V
WayV
WOODZ
Xdinary Heroes
xikers
YOUNITE
ZEROBASEONE
Zico
Fans’ Choice Female
aespa
ARTMS
BABYMONSTER
BADVILLAIN
BIBI
Billlie
Blackswan
BoA
Choi Ye Na
Chungha
CLASS:y
CRAXY
Dreamcatcher
EVERGLOW
FIFTY FIFTY
fromis_9
(G)I-DLE
H1-KEY
Hwasa
HyunA
ILLIT
ITZY
IU
IVE
Jennie
Jeon Somi
Kep1er
KISS OF LIFE
Kwon Eun Bi
LE SSERAFIM
Lee Young Ji
LIGHTSUM
MEOVV
Moonbyul
NewJeans
NMIXX
OH MY GIRL
QWER
Red Velvet
STAYC
Sunmi
Taeyeon
tripleS
TWICE
UNIS
VIVIZ
Weeekly
Wheein
WOOAH
Young Posse
The 2024 MAMA Awards will take place on November 21 in Los Angeles and November 22 and 23 in Japan.
Seunghan recently shared a heartfelt handwritten letter addressing his departure from the group RIIZE, following an official announcement by SM Entertainment. The decision comes shortly after fans sent a row of funeral wreath to the group’s building.
Seunghan Announces RIIZE Departure After Funeral Wreath Controversy
In his letter, Seunghan expressed his thoughts on the decision, explaining that leaving the group was a difficult choice. He acknowledged the support he received from fans and his fellow members, stating that he would continue to support RIIZE despite his departure.
“After pondering deeply whether I’ve been thinking only of myself too much, whether I’m causing too much harm to the members and the company, and whether it’s really okay for me to be part of RIIZE, who should be loved, I only felt worried and apologetic. So I think that my leaving the group is the right path for everyone,” he wrote.
“I don’t want to cause any more hurt or confusion for the fans, and I don’t want to harm the members any further, and I also don’t want to hurt the company any further,” he added.
In protest, some fans sent funeral wreaths to SM Entertainment’s headquarters, symbolizing their belief that the company’s production sensibilities had “died.” The backlash prompted SM Entertainment to reconsider their decision, resulting in Seunghan’s withdrawal from the group just two days later. This series of events has left fans divided, with some supporting Seunghan’s departure while others lament the loss of a cherished member.
Seunghan has opened up to fans about his long-awaited return. The RIIZE member penned a heartfelt letter after his agency confirmed his return from hiatus.
Seunghan Officially Set to Return From Hiatus
On October 11, SM Entertainment officially announced that Seunghan, who took an unexpected hiatus last year, will be rejoining the group for their upcoming activities next month.
“We poured our heart and soul into planning out RIIZE even before their debut, and we have determined that RIIZE’s next chapter would be even more meaningful if the seven members were together,” the statement from Wizard Production read. “Therefore, after numerous discussions with the staff and members about the direction of the group’s future activities, it has been decided that Seunghan will be returning to the group.”
Shortly after the announcement, Seunghan personally reached out to fans through a heartfelt handwritten letter on Weverse. In his message, he expressed gratitude for the continued support he received during his absence and shared his excitement about returning to the stage with his fellow members. He also reflected on the time spent away from the spotlight, explaining how it helped him grow and prepare for his comeback.
“I know there is so much I need to show to the members who have taken my hand again, the fans who are worried that the achievements made in my absence might be tarnished, and the company that made the tough decision. Of course, I feel burden and fear about this aspect,” he wrote.
“However, I am determined to work even harder and do better because of the trust placed in me,” Seunghan added. “I will strive to be a good member who takes responsibility and does not tarnish the achievements the members have built up. I want to become a necessary presence to the team RIIZE.”
Now, with his rejoining confirmed, Seunghan is set to participate in the group’s next comeback, bringing fresh energy and excitement to RIIZE’s upcoming activities. Fans are thrilled to see him back and are looking forward to his performances as he resumes his journey with the group.
The 2024 K-Link Festival has revealed an exciting lineup that K-pop fans won’t want to miss! Not surprisingly, the upcoming event promises a star-studded night with performances from RIIZE, aespa, ITZY, and so much more!
2024 K-Link Festival Unveils Stellar Line-Up
Scheduled for October 5 at the INSPIRE Arena in Incheon, this highly anticipated event will feature performances from some of the hottest names in K-pop, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees and viewers alike.
The lineup boasts seven top-tier acts, including aespa, SHINee’s Minho, ITZY, RIIZE, THE BOYZ, NCT WISH, and tripleS. Each of these groups and artists has made significant waves in the K-pop industry, promising a dynamic range of performances, from aespa’s powerful stage presence to SHINee’s Minho showcasing his solo charm, and the highly anticipated appearances of rising groups like RIIZE and NCT WISH.
It is also believed that the lineup isn’t final yet and that there are more acts that will be announced before the event. For now, the seven artists are the only ones confirmed for the festival. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.
A Night to Remember Even For Those Who Can’t Make it To Inspire Arena
For international fans who can’t make it to the event in person, the festival will also be live-streamed on SBS Medianet’s YouTube channel THE K-POP. This accessibility also allows K-pop enthusiasts from around the globe to tune in and enjoy the performances in real-time. Additionally, the event will be broadcast on SBS, SBS FiL, and SBS M at a later time, giving viewers multiple opportunities to catch all the performances.
The 2024 K-Link Festival will begin on October 5 at 5 p.m. KST, also marking a thrilling day for K-pop fans both in Korea and worldwide!
Which K-pop act are you looking forward to at the 2024 K-Link Festival this October? Sound off in the comments below.
RIIZE is set to celebrate their first anniversary with a special live broadcast. The boy group are clearly determined to reach out to fans for the significant event.
RIIZE Announces Special Live Broadcast for 1st Debut Anniversary
On August 26, the group announced their special live broadcast titled “RIIZE’s BRIIZING NIGHT | RIIZE 1st Anniversary”. The event, which will be held on September 3rd, will take place just a day before their debut anniversary. The broadcast will be available on their YouTube, TikTok, and Weverse channels, starting at 11 PM, offering fans an opportunity to join in the celebration.
The event will have a “pajama party” concept, adding a fun and relaxed vibe to the broadcast. This unique approach is sure to resonate with fans as the RIIZE members create an intimate and laid-back atmosphere, allowing them to connect with their global audience in a more personal way.
Throughout the broadcast, the members of RIIZE will take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on their journey over the past year. They’ll share their thoughts and experiences, offering insights into their growth and the milestones they’ve achieved since their debut. Fans can also look forward to various interactive segments, including a Q&A session, where the group will respond to fan questions, and a discussion of the top 10 memorable moments from their first year. Additionally, they’ll talk about the dress code for the finale performance of their fan-con tour, adding an element of excitement for the upcoming event.
Following this live broadcast, RIIZE will continue their anniversary celebrations with the “2024 RIIZE FAN-CON ‘RIIZING DAY’ FINALE in SEOUL,” scheduled to take place from September 13th to 15th at the KSPO DOME in Seoul’s Olympic Park. This event will be the culmination of their first fan-con tour, making it a fitting tribute to a successful year for the group. Fans can anticipate a memorable experience as RIIZE marks this significant milestone in their career.
RIIZE‘s highly anticipated variety show “BOSS RIIZE” has just unveiled an exciting new character teaser that offers fans a sneak peek into the group’s fun-filled dynamics.
‘BOSS RIIZE’ Teaser Released
This marks the first-ever reality show for the rising idol group, and it promises to be a thrilling adventure as the members embark on a two-day trip to Gangneung and Yangyang in Gangwon Province.
In “BOSS RIIZE,” the RIIZE members will participate in a series of engaging missions, each designed to earn them voting ballots. These ballots will be crucial in determining who will be elected as the all-powerful “boss,” a role that allows the winner to issue orders to the other members. The show will be filled with laughter, strategy, and a bit of chaos as the group competes for this coveted position.
The newly released teaser highlights each member’s unique personality and role within the show. Eldest member Shotaro kicks things off with his boundless enthusiasm, though he sometimes finds himself struggling in the games. Eunseok, on the other hand, is focused on strategy and alliances, hoping to outsmart his bandmates and become the final boss.
Sungchan showcases his dual nature: impressing with his physical strength during the day but getting adorably scared when faced with a horror mission at night. Wonbin begins as an innocent and carefree participant, but after being betrayed by his bandmates, he quickly shifts gears, determined to play the game to win. Sohee, described as struggling to find his footing on his first variety show, nonetheless remains cheerful and constantly laughing amidst the chaos.
Lastly, youngest member Anton is seen diligently working on chores, with a hopeful glint in his eye as he muses, “If I work hard, wouldn’t I be able to become boss Anton?”
“BOSS RIIZE” is set to premiere on August 28, and fans can catch all the action on Viki. With its intriguing premise and lively cast, the show is sure to be a hit among viewers.
“Music Bank” is getting ready to take over Spain! The amazing lineup for “Music Bank in Madrid” has been confirmed to feature aespa, ENHYPEN, RIIZE, and so much more!
‘Music Bank in Madrid’ Lineup Announced
On July 5, the performer lineup for the upcoming special “Music Bank in Madrid” was announced. The highly anticipated event will bring together some of the biggest names in K-pop, creating a night filled with electrifying performances and unforgettable moments.
¡La espera llegó a su fin!
Estos son los ocho increíbles grupos que harán vibrar el Estadio Santiago Bernabéu el próximo 12 de octubre.
ENHYPEN, aespa, BOYNEXTDOOR, RIIZE, NMIXX, KISS OF LIFE, MAMAMOO+, and P1Harmony will all be performing at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium—the home of Real Madrid—on October 12, 2024. The iconic venue, known for hosting legendary football matches, will also transform into a vibrant stage for these world-renowned artists, providing an unforgettable experience for K-pop fans in Europe.
Tickets for the event will go on pre-sale starting on July 15 at 12 p.m. CEST, offering an exclusive opportunity for eager fans to secure their spots early. Following the pre-sale, the general sale will then begin on July 17 at 12 p.m. CEST, opening up more chances for fans to be part of this spectacular concert.
The ‘Music Bank’ World Tour Continues
“Music Bank” is a popular South Korean music program that showcases live performances from the hottest K-pop idols and groups. Known for its international special editions, “Music Bank” has brought the best of K-pop to cities around the world, creating a global wave of excitement and fandom. The “Music Bank in Madrid” also promises to be another monumental event, featuring a star-studded lineup that highlights the diversity and talent within the K-pop industry.
ENHYPEN, aespa, and other top acts will also deliver their hit songs and captivating performances, making it a night to remember. Fans can also expect high-energy dance routines, stunning visuals, and powerful vocals that define the K-pop phenomenon.
As the countdown begins for this exceptional event, fans are also eagerly awaiting their chance to witness their favorite idols live in action at one of the most prestigious venues in Europe. “Music Bank in Madrid” is also set to be a landmark event in the 2024 K-pop calendar, celebrating music, culture, and the unifying power of entertainment.
RIIZE concluded a flawless week of music show victories by claiming their fifth trophy for the new title track “Boom Boom Bass”!
During the June 30 episode of SBS’s “Inkigayo,” RIIZE competed against aespa’s “Supernova” and NewJeans’ “How Sweet” for the top spot. Ultimately, RIIZE secured the win with an impressive total of 6,353 points. This achievement signifies their consecutive wins across all major music shows throughout the week, including “The Show,” “Show Champion,” “M Countdown,” and “Music Bank.”
RIIZE, a South Korean boy group under SM Entertainment, has been causing a stir in the K-pop realm with their latest single “Boom Boom Bass”. Featured on their debut mini-album titled “RIIZING”, the track has garnered acclaim for its infectious melody and dynamic rhythm.
RIIZE made a remarkable impact in the K-pop world shortly after their announcement by quickly amassing one million Instagram followers within just four days of launching their account. This rapid growth highlighted their burgeoning fanbase and generated significant excitement ahead of their debut.
The buzz continued to build with the release of RIIZE’s captivating performance video for “Siren,” showcasing their exceptional dance skills and solidifying their reputation as dynamic performers. Additionally, their pre-debut track “Memories” resonated deeply with fans, further heightening anticipation for their official debut.
On September 4, RIIZE officially debuted with the single “Get A Guitar,” which promptly received over one million physical pre-orders—a testament to the group’s strong pre-debut momentum and fan support.
This milestone was accompanied by a groundbreaking announcement: RIIZE had secured a major partnership with RCA Records, a prominent division of Sony Music. This collaboration marked a significant achievement for RIIZE, positioning them uniquely as global leaders in the next generation of K-pop, having secured a major U.S. record label partnership before their official debut—a rare accomplishment in the industry.
As RIIZE continues to make waves with their music and performances, their rapid rise and early successes illustrate their potential to make a lasting impact in the global music landscape.