RIIZE (라이즈) is the newest boy group launched by SM Entertainment. They debuted in September 2023 and quickly garnered significant attention for their unique sound, performance skills, and visual appeal.
Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about RIIZE:
RIIZE Profile
- Agency: SM Entertainment
- Debut Date: September 4, 2023
- Meaning of Name: The name RIIZE is a combination of “Rise,” signifying growth, and “Realize,” meaning to achieve. Together, it means “a team that grows and realizes dreams together.”
- Concept/Genre: They officially define their music as “Emotional Pop,” focusing on capturing and expressing everyday emotions and experiences through their songs. Their music often blends catchy pop melodies with R&B influences.
- Fandom Name: BRIIZE (브리즈) – Announced in December 2023. It’s a play on their name, symbolizing that fans are like a “breeze” that helps RIIZE fly higher and achieve their dreams.
Members (6 current members)
Originally a seven-member group, RIIZE currently promotes with six members.
- Shotaro (쇼타로)
- Born: November 25, 2000
- Nationality: Japanese
- Position: Leader, Main Dancer
- Fact: He was previously a member of SM Entertainment’s group NCT (specifically NCT U) before re-debuting with RIIZE. He’s known for his exceptional dance skills.
- Eunseok (은석)
- Born: March 19, 2001
- Nationality: Korean
- Position: Vocalist, Visual
- Fact: He was a member of SM Rookies (SM’s pre-debut training team) prior to joining RIIZE. Known for his charming visuals and stable vocals.
- Sungchan (성찬)
- Born: September 13, 2001
- Nationality: Korean
- Position: Rapper, Vocalist
- Fact: Like Shotaro, he was also a former member of NCT (NCT U) before re-debuting with RIIZE. He has a deep voice and a strong stage presence.
- Wonbin (원빈)
- Born: March 2, 2002
- Nationality: Korean
- Position: Vocalist, Dancer, Visual
- Fact: Known for his striking visuals, captivating stage presence, and powerful dance moves. He quickly became a fan favorite.
- Sohee (소희)
- Born: November 21, 2003
- Nationality: Korean
- Position: Main Vocalist
- Fact: He has a very distinct and powerful vocal tone, which is a key element in RIIZE’s sound.
- Anton (앤톤)
- Born: March 21, 2004
- Nationality: Korean-American
- Position: Maknae (Youngest), Vocalist
- Fact: He is the son of famous Korean singer-songwriter Yoon Sang. Anton is also skilled in music production and playing instruments.
Former Member:
- Seunghan (승한)
- Originally a seven-member group, Seunghan went on an indefinite hiatus in November 2023 and ultimately departed from the group in February 2024, citing personal reasons and responsibility. RIIZE currently promotes as six members.
Music & Key Releases
RIIZE quickly made a mark with their distinctive sound and compelling visuals.
- Pre-Debut Single: “Memories” (August 21, 2023) – A nostalgic track introducing their “Emotional Pop” concept.
- Debut Single Album: “Get A Guitar” (September 4, 2023)
- Title Track: “Get A Guitar” – A groovy, retro-inspired track that showcased their refreshing sound and synchronized choreography.
- B-side: “Memories”
- Digital Single: “Love 119” (January 5, 2024) – A melodic and emotional track that performed very well on Korean charts, solidifying their position as a rising act.
- Digital Single: “Impossible” (April 18, 2024) – A pre-release single for their first mini-album, showcasing a more energetic and house-influenced sound.
- Upcoming Release: “RIIZING” (June 2024) – Their highly anticipated first mini-album.
Why They’re Popular
- SM Entertainment Backing: As a group from one of the “Big 4” K-Pop agencies, they naturally receive significant industry attention and resources.
- Strong Visuals & Performance: All members are recognized for their striking visuals and powerful, synchronized dance performances.
- “Emotional Pop” Concept: Their focus on relatable emotions and a smooth, trendy sound has resonated with a wide audience.
- Member Backgrounds: The inclusion of former NCT members Shotaro and Sungchan, as well as SM Rookies Eunseok and Seunghan (initially), generated significant pre-debut buzz. Anton being Yoon Sang’s son also added to the public’s curiosity.
- Rapid Chart Success: Their singles, particularly “Love 119,” achieved remarkable success on domestic and international charts for a rookie group.
RIIZE has quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting new groups in K-Pop, and their future looks very bright as they continue to grow and realize their dreams.