Tag: RIIZE

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Here’s the Line-up for SMTOWN Live Concert in Tokyo in 2024

RIIZE and TVXQ pose together for MAMA 2023. Credit: Twitter/RIIZE

SM Entertainment has unveiled the stellar lineup for the highly anticipated SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo concert series. 

Taking place at the iconic Tokyo Dome from February 21-22, 2024 this marks the 20th installment of the prestigious SMTOWN LIVE show at this renowned venue.

Building on the success of last year’s SMTOWN LIVE 2022: SMCU Express @Tokyo, which drew a staggering 150,000 attendees over three days, the upcoming concerts on February 21 and 22 are poised to continue this legacy. Notably, this event will mark the return of SMTOWN LIVE to the Tokyo Dome after the sold-out shows last August 2022.

The star-studded roster includes Kangta, TVXQ, Super Junior, Taeyeon and Hyoyeon from Girls’ Generation. Also performing are groups Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, and NCT NEW TEAM. From the teaser alone, fans are already anticipating unforgettable performances from these diverse and talented roster of artists. 

Beyond individual performances, the audience can anticipate special collaboration stages featuring members from different groups. Although there’s no confirmation yet as to which artists will be collaborating, it still adds  an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying concert experience. 

As SM Entertainment brings its signature concert series to Tokyo once again, fans can expect a celebration of music, unity, and unforgettable moments at the SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo.

SMTOWN in 2023

Unsurprisingly, the SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo will be one of the most anticipated events from SM Entertainment after the agency had a series of shake ups this year. 

As for the lineup, it’s noticeable how EXO is not part of the performers. Although the agency didn’t disclose any reason, fans are attributing it to the possibility of the members’ contract with the label. To recall, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin had a legal battle with SM Entertainment, while members Sehun and Chanyeol were also rumored to leave the agency. Meanwhile, D.O. has signed with Company SooSoo for his individual activities. 

Aside from EXO, NCT also had a series of changes. In May, SM Entertainment announced the departure of Lucas from NCT and WayV. Meanwhile, former NCT members Sungchan and Shotaro debuted with SM Entertainment’s newest boy group, RIIZE, instead. Furthermore, NCT has also formed NCT NEW TEAM, the last chapter to their expansion concept. 

Given these changes, fans are looking forward to seeing how SM Entertainment would fare in 2024.

Featured image: RIIZE and TVXQ pose together for MAMA 2023. Credit: Twitter/RIIZE

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RIIZE Makes First 6-Member Public Appearance Following Seunghan’s Suspension

SM Entertainment’s rookie boy group RIIZE made their first public appearance without Seunghan. This marked their debut appearance as a 6-member group, addressing the public following Seunghan’s suspension.

RIIZE Attends Breast Cancer Awareness Event As 6-Member Group

On November 24, RIIZE was in attendance at the 18th W Korea Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign event held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Jongno-gu, Seoul. The members who were present were Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton. This also marks the first time that RIIZE made an appearance as a 6-member group.

The group’s appearance comes after a series of controversies involving Seunghan, which led to his indefinite hiatus from group activities. The controversies emerged when online posts exposed past photos of Seunghan, alleging behavior such as asserting dominance over fellow idol trainees at SM Entertainment and his previous agency, along with engaging in negative behavior during Instagram Live sessions.

RIIZE’s public appearance at the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign event serves as an opportunity for the group to make a collective statement and showcase their unity as a 6-member ensemble. It also allows them to engage with the public and fans, emphasizing their commitment to the group’s objectives and activities despite the challenges they have faced.

Seunghan’s Suspension Proves Image is Everything in K-Pop

The controversy surrounding Seunghan prompted SM Entertainment to take decisive action by announcing his indefinite hiatus from RIIZE’s group activities. The agency also aims to address and manage the situation, ensuring the well-being and reputation of the group.

The K-pop industry often navigates challenges related to the public image and behavior of its idols. Agencies play a crucial role in managing and addressing controversies to protect the reputation of their artists and groups. RIIZE’s public appearance also reflects the agency’s efforts to continue promoting the group while addressing and managing the aftermath of the controversy surrounding Seunghan.

As RIIZE moves forward, the group will likely focus on their music and performances, seeking to build a positive image and regain the support of fans. The K-pop industry’s resilience is often demonstrated by how agencies and artists handle challenges and controversies, emphasizing growth, professionalism, and the pursuit of their artistic goals.

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RIIZE’s Seunghan Pens Heartfelt Letter Following Activity Suspension

Seunghan has written a heartfelt letter following SM Entertainment’s announcement that he will be suspended from RIIZE’s upcoming activities. The rookie idol issued an apology to fans who were disappointed about his recent controversies.

RIIZE Member Seunghan Pens Heartfelt Letter for Fans

On November 22, Seunghan penned the heartfelt letter which was shared on the official RIIZE Weverse account. 

“First of all, I want to sincerely apologize,” Seunghan wrote. “I am well aware that my past thoughtless actions are causing a lot of harm to many people now. I truly regret and reflect on my behavior.”

He added, “I want to express my deepest apologies to the fans who have supported me and the members of RIIZE.”

Seunghan further stated, “I deeply regret that I have caused so much damage during a time when I should be working harder and striving for self-improvement. I will genuinely reflect on my actions and make a sincere effort to become a better person.”

“Once again, I want to apologize to the members, fans, and staff for any inconvenience I have caused,” the letter concluded.

SM Entertainment had previously confirmed that Seunghan will be suspended from the group’s upcoming activities. “Seunghan is sincerely sorry and reflects on the disappointment and confusion caused to the team and members as well as the fans due to issues related to his personal life. Seunghan felt a burden and responsibility and after deep consideration, made the best choice for the team. He expressed his intention to suspend his activities. We respected his opinion and decided to suspend his activities indefinitely,” their statement read.

Seunghan’s Many Controversies

Last week, Seunghan found himself at the center of yet another controversy related to his private life, as a live stream video from his private social media account was leaked. K-netizens expressed dissatisfaction with the RIIZE member for making disparaging remarks about another idol while casually referring to a female idol as if they had a close personal relationship. In the wake of the video leak, another clip emerged, this time depicting Seunghan smoking on the streets.

This incident marks the second time Seunghan has faced public scrutiny due to his controversial personal life. In a prior instance in August, the idol stirred controversy when alleged pre-debut photos circulated on the internet, showing Seunghan and a suspected girlfriend at a hotel. The resurfacing of such incidents has led to increased attention on Seunghan’s behavior offstage, generating discussions among fans and the public alike.

RIIZE is currently promoting the single “Talk Saxy”.

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RIIZE’s Seunghan to Go On Indefinite Hiatus Amid Online Controversy

Seunghan in concept photos for RIIZE's 'Get A Guitar.' Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

SM Entertainment announced on Wednesday, November 22, that Seunghan will be taking a break from doing activities with K-pop boy group RIIZE due to an ongoing online controversy surrounding his personal life. 

Seunghan, who made his debut under RIIZE in September, found himself in the midst of a public uproar as leaked photos from his pre-debut days circulated online. These images depicted him smoking, dating, and engaging in video calls with other singers.

Following these incidents, SM Entertainment said that the idol is “feeling severely apologetic” to his members and fans. According to the translation from Soompi, the label added that Seunghan is “reflecting on himself for causing disappointment and commotion.” 

As he felt the weight of mental pressure and a sense of responsibility in light of the issue, Seunghan shared his intention to suspend his activities with the team. 

“We also judged that it is too difficult for him to continue activities through this situation, and respecting his opinion of no longer wanting to cause harm to the team, and members,” we decided on the indefinite suspension of his activities,” SM Entertainment said. 

Seunghan pens letter to fans

In respect of the idol’s decision to take a break, SM Entertainment announced that RIIZE will operate with six members starting November 22, excluding Seunghan. 

Furthermore, the agency apologized for the abrupt decision but asked for fans’ understanding since it was a decision they made under “deep contemplation.” Moreover, SM Entertainment also expressed their regret for its oversight in artist management although said incidents happened before  their debut.  

Following the announcement, Seunghan also shared a handwritten letter to fans through Weverse. “First of all, I’d like to say I’m really sorry. I know very well that my rash actions in the past are hurting too many people now,” he said. 

The idol continued that he is currently “deeply reflecting” as he thinks he’s “caused too much damage” already. Ending his letter, he promised fans that he will work harder in becoming a better person.” 

SM Entertainment to pursue legal action

However, in response to the unauthorized distribution of Seunghan’s private videos and photos, the agency announced its intention to take legal action. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment pointed out that those involved in leaking and circulating these materials have resorted to malicious tactics, including creating baseless false information and fabricated messenger conversations. This, in turn, has led to severe defamation of the artist by spreading distorted information that deviates from the truth.

To address the situation,, the agency initiated monitoring efforts and identified the individuals responsible for the unauthorized leaks. Now armed with substantial evidence, they plan to file a legal complaint at the local police station soon to  address these violations.

“For the sake of the artist and team, as well as the fans who love the team, the agency will not only file legal complaints but also respond strongly without any settlement or leniency,” the agency promised. 

Featured image: Seunghan in concept photos for RIIZE’s ‘Get A Guitar.’ Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

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Wonbin Dishes on Favorite RIIZE Member and Other K-Pop Group Biases

There is little doubt that RIIZE has been making waves in the K-pop industry as one of the fifth-generation boy groups under SM Entertainment. Still, they all started out as fans who had biases in other idol groups. But which K-pop stars do Wonbin look up to? The idol dished on his favorite members and even revealed which member of RIIZE he admires!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Reveals His NCT, WayV, SEVENTEEN, and TXT Biases

In a recent video call event, a fan decided to inquire about Wonbin’s biases from other boy groups, including those outside the SM Entertainment umbrella. When asked about his favorite member from NCT Dream, Wonbin promptly responded with Mark‘s name. Continuing the inquiry, the fan wondered about members from NCT’s other subunits, NCT 127 and WayV. Wonbin revealed that Taeyong and Xiaojun were his favorites from these respective groups.

The fan then expanded the scope to non-SM Entertainment idols, beginning with the Pledis Entertainment group SEVENTEEN. To this, Wonbin expressed his fondness for Hoshi. Transitioning to TXT, he indicated Yeonjun as his favorite member.

Lastly, the fan asked Wonbin to name his favorite member from his own group. In good spirits, Wonbin humorously declared Sohee as his favorite RIIZE member within their own group. Still, fans believe that he gets along well with Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Seunghan, and Anton.

Wonbin’s responses shed light on his passion for K-Pop, revealing his appreciation for members from various idol groups and confirming that he has his biases just like everybody else. With his evident enthusiasm for the genre, fans can hope to see him collaborating with some of his favorite artists in the future.

RIIZE officially debuted with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’ in September. They are currently preparing for their first comeback with the single “Talk Saxy” on October 27, 2023.

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RIIZE to Release Soundtrack Album for 3D Animation ‘Sealook’

The group releases a teaser for their comeback single 'Talk Saxy.' Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

Exciting news await fans of monster rookies RIIZE as the K-pop group is confirmed to release an original soundtrack album for the beloved 3D animation series Sealook. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Million Volt, the animation studio behind the series, confirmed that they’re collaborating with RIIZE. 

Accordingly, the soundtrack album is set to include the songs “Happy! Happy! Happy!” and “Look at me Sealook,” both in their Korean and English versions.

Moreover, “Happy! Happy! Happy!” is described as a calming pop song while “Look at me Sealook” has colorful and lively tones. 

To tease the collaboration, Sealook has been releasing teasers and snippets for the upcoming tracks.

For those unfamiliar, Sealook is a 3D animation series that premiered in South Korea in December 2022. It is co-produced by The Pinkfong Company, who is known for the television sensation Baby Shork, and Million Volt. According to its press release, the series is a “mockumentary-style sitcom about the daily lives of ‘fun-loving seals.’” 

Notably, Sealook features a unique format – a series of 90-second-long short-form videos, completely devoid of dialogues. Despite this, it has managed to amass an impressive following with over six million subscribers and one billion accumulated channel views on its official channel in less than a year since its premiere. 

RIIZE is set to release their soundtrack album for Sealook on November 4. 

RIIZE is on the roll

Following the news, fans of RIIZE can’t help but be excited for the group’s first OST participation. Especially that the act is collaborating with a popular series just months after their debut. 

Composed of members Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton, RIIZE is the latest addition to SM Entertainment’s roster of artists. Interestingly, two of the group members, Shotaro and Sungchan, have previously made their debut in 2020 as part of NCT. 

On September 4, the septet officially made their debut with the song “Get A Guitar.”

Prior to their debut, the group has already gained worldwide popularity as evident on how they became the fastest K-pop group to reach 1 million followers on Instagram. 

Adding to the excitement, RIIZE has also announced that they’re set to make their first comeback. On October 27, the group will be releasing the new single “Talk Saxy.” Definitely, a lot of things to look forward to with the rookie boy group! 

Facebook: The group releases a teaser for their comeback single ‘Talk Saxy.’ Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

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Here Are All The Winners at the The Fact Music Awards 2023

The winners are here! The prestigious The Fact Music Awards 2023 unfolded on October 10 at Incheon’s Namdong Gymnasium and the event maintained its continuity by featuring the beloved hosting duo of Girls’ Generation’s Seohyun and Jun Hyun Moo. This is the duo’s second successful role as hosts in the previous year.

The Big Winners At The 2023 The Fact Music Awards

As expected, the TMAs brought together a dazzling array of K-pop idols representing various groups and entertainment companies, making it a truly star-studded affair.

SEVENTEEN emerged as one of the most significant winners at this year’s awards ceremony, securing the coveted Daesang (Grand Prize) and earning their place among the ten Artist of the Year (Bonsang) awardees.

https://youtu.be/aFXp-2fOZOc

BTS and Lim Young Woong both enjoyed considerable success, each clinching a remarkable five awards during the event. BTS proudly took home accolades for Best Music (Summer), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, with individual members Jimin and V securing the Idol Plus Popularity Award and Best Music (Fall), respectively.

Lim Young Woong stood tall with recognition, winning an Artist of the Year (Bonsang) award, in addition to Best Music (Winter), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, and the Fan N Star Best Ads Award. The night was filled with well-deserved accolades and exciting moments for these exceptional artists. Check out the full list of winners at The Fact Music Awards 2023.

The Fact Music Awards 2023 Full List

Daesang (Grand Prize): SEVENTEEN

Artist of the Year (Bonsang): aespa, ATEEZ, ITZY, IVE, Lim Young Woong, NewJeans, NMIXX, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TREASURE

Worldwide Icon: aespa

https://youtu.be/lTfweng8Rjg

Best Performer: IVE

Four Star Award: Stray Kids

Listeners’ Choice: NewJeans

Next Leader: RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE

https://youtu.be/YuA3fJ6NbUE

Best Music (Spring): Lee Chan Won
Best Music (Summer): BTS
Best Music (Fall): BTS’s V
Best Music (Winter): Lim Young Woong

https://youtu.be/dEQspHFhUPA

Idol Plus Popularity Award: BTS’s Jimin

Band Performer of the Year: Jannabi

Solo Performer of the Year: Kwon Eun Bi

https://youtu.be/OCr5lqMhPaE

Fan N Star Most Voted: BTS, Lim Young Woong

Fan N Star Choice Award (Group): BTS
Fan N Star Choice Award (Solo): Lim Young Woong

Hottest: BOYNEXTDOOR, xikers

Fan N Star Best Ads Award: Lim Young Woong

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RIIZE’s Eunseok Confirmed as Special MC on ‘Show! Music Core’

RIIZE member Eunseok is ready for his first solo endeavor as a special MC on MBC's 'Show! Music Core' later this week!

Eunseok is set to make a special appearance as a guest MC on “Show! Music Core.” The RIIZE member has just been confirmed as a special MC in the MBC variety show later this week!

RIIZE Member Eunseok Announced as ‘Show! Music Core’ Special MC This Week

Reports have unveiled that Eunseok will be taking on the new role. He would mark his debut as a music show host on MBC’s “Show! Music Core” scheduled for September 9, 2023. Fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness the RIIZE member’s unique charms as he graces the stage as an MC, making this a highly anticipated moment for both the artist and his supporters.

Eunseok, alongside Shohei and Seunghan, was revealed as the newest member of SM Entertainment’s trainee team SM ROOKIES in July 2023. It was later confirmed that Eunseok and Seunghan will join RIIZE while Shohei is expected to debut in NCT Tokyo. Since then, fans have been anticipating Eunseok’s debut as an idol.

RIIZE is comprised of seven members namely Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton. Shotaro and Sungchan were previous members of NCT before SM Entertainment announced they would be joining the new group. The members’ profiles were released in August 2023. Since then, the upcoming idols dropped their pre-release single “Memories” on August 21. The group officially debuted with their single album ‘Get A Guitar’, which was released on September 4, 2023.

In related news, RIIZE has announced that they are changing their fandom name just two days after the official announcement. Originally announced as SUNZ, SM Entertainment has decided to change the fan club name to BRIIZE following intense backlash. With the fandom finally getting a fresh redo, RIIZE and their fans are prepared for what lies ahead as the boy group begins promoting their debut single. In the meantime, the official fan club is set to open on September 12, 2023.

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RIIZE’s Shotaro Reflects on Moving From NCT to Rookie Group

Former NCT member Shotaro discussed what it was like making the big move to the latest rookie group RIIZE

Shotaro opened up about his honest reaction to the big change in his career. The former NCT member discussed what it was like to debut in an established K-pop act. Shotaro Osaki then reflected on what he faced when he joined SM Entertainment’s new rookie group RIIZE.

Shotaro Reflects on Moving From NCT to Rookie Group RIIZE

Back in May, SM Entertainment issued a statement regarding Sungchan and Shotaro’s status in NCT. The company revealed that the idols, who joined the group in 2020, will join a new group. Since then, Shotaro and Sungchan went from members of an established group, NCT, to starting over in a rookie group, RIIZE.

But what was it like to make the big change for Shotaro? The Japanese idol discussed his thoughts during RIIZE’s debut event on September 4. First, Shotaro stated that he was proud to have been part of NCT.

“I had been promoting as a member of NCT before and it was such an honor for me to perform in that group,” he said. “I really appreciate the fans and members for supporting me.”

Shotaro continued by admitting he is happy and excited to be a part of RIIZE.

“And now I’m debuting as RIIZE, I’m so happy to debut with the members I practiced with,” he said. “I’m excited for us to show you many things in the coming days. We’re also preparing a lot of things for you, so please look forward to them.”

Jung Sungchan and Osaki Shotaro debuted as part of NCT on October 12, 2020. They were featured as part of the group project NCT 2020 and participated in the album ‘NCT 2020 Resonance Pt. 1’. SM Entertainment initially planned for the two idols to become a part of a new NCT unit.

RIIZE released their debut single album ‘Get A Guitar’ and the title track of the same name on September 4, 2023.

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RIIZE Announces Official Fandom Name

RIIZE has finally announced their official fandom name after the release of their single album 'Get a Guitar'

RIIZE, the exciting new musical sensation, recently made a thrilling announcement that sent their fans into a frenzy of excitement. On the 4th of September, the group hosted a spectacular showcase titled “RIIZING DAY: RIIZE Premiere” to commemorate the launch of their debut single album, “Get A Guitar.”

RIIZE’s Official Fandom Name Finally Announced On Social Media

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the showcase, RIIZE took a momentous step by introducing their official fandom name, which they proudly christened as “SUNZ.” This announcement was met with resounding cheers and applause from their dedicated supporters in attendance, and it resonated far and wide as RIIZE spread the word through their official social media channels.

RIIZE also shared the news on X with a hopeful message for their fans. “SUNZ, who will always make RIIZE shine brightly from the same place and mature together with RIIZE, please continue to show great support for RIIZE,” it reads.

This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in RIIZE’s journey, solidifying the bond between the group and their devoted fans, who can now proudly identify themselves as “SUNZ.” As the group continues to captivate audiences with their music and performances, the SUNZ fandom is set to grow and thrive as an essential part of RIIZE’s vibrant and passionate community of supporters.

RIIZE is comprised of seven members namely Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton. Shotaro and Sungchan were previous members of NCT before SM Entertainment announced they would be joining the new group. The members’ profiles were released in August 2023. Since then, the upcoming idols dropped their pre-release single “Memories” on August 21. The group officially debuted with their single album ‘Get A Guitar’, which was released on September 4, 2023.

In addition to announcing their fandom name, RIIZE was also confirmed to promote internationally. The group has signed a contract with RCA Records for their promotion and activities in the United States.

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