Riize: A K-Pop Group Finding Its Identity Through Music and Connection
In the world of K-pop, where extravagant performances often overshadow intimate moments, the boy band Riize has found a unique groove. While on stage their energy is electric, behind the scenes, the six members—Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton—share a calmer, sillier side—a glimpse of young men navigating the whirlwind of fame as they soar between the ages of 21 and 25.
Fresh off the finale of their U.S. tour at the Peacock Theatre in downtown Los Angeles, the group gathered in a conference room at The Hollywood Reporter’s L.A. office. Despite the exhaustion of back-to-back performances, the young men radiated positivity and excitement. “We really felt ourselves growing with every show,” Sohee, 22, shared through a translator, reflecting on their journey through the U.S. They head to Mexico City shortly after, ready to wrap up their North American tour.
Embracing New Sounds with “Fame”
Just before the tour kicked off, Riize released their latest single album, Fame, showcasing three tracks that explore new sonic territories. “It’s a chance for us to reinvent ourselves,” Shotaro, 25, explained, emphasizing the group’s commitment to evolving musically. “Fans will get to see a darker, moodier side of us this time.”
A Different Kind of Sound
Anton chipped in about the lead track, “Fame,” describing it as a rage-type beat. “It’s a hip-hop-style track that feels very new for us,” he said. The genres the group is diving into are not just trendy; they’re a chance to push their boundaries as artists, something that all six members are excited to explore.
Recordings come with their share of fun and challenges. Anton noted that the songwriters who participated in the recording process infused the experience with energy and creativity. “They pushed us to try new things while keeping it fun,” he shared.
“Why do you think now feels like a good time for you to try a new style?” a question came their way. Eunseok replied thoughtfully, “This genre is trendy, but we genuinely believe that exploring new genres helps us grow.”
As they reflect on their past work, Anton shared, “With songs like those from our last release, Odyssey, we carried a message of rising since our debut. With Fame, we wanted to showcase a different take on Riize, revealing a new side of ourselves.”
Touring: A Chance for Growth
The lessons learned during their recent tour were abundant. Sohee mentioned how each city brought their connection with fans deeper. “With every new city, we could feel ourselves getting more acclimated,” she said, a smile lighting up her face. It was evident that the positive reception they received was a heartwarming part of their journey.
When asked about significant takeaways from the tour, Anton emphasized the importance of sincerity. “Being genuine resonates with the audience. Even though this tour was a new experience, we felt comfortable connecting with the crowd,” he remarked, recalling moments of laughter as they attempted to converse in English during their performances.
Reflecting on a special moment, Shotaro remembered their performance at the Peacock Theatre. “We returned to the same venue where we showcased our first overseas performance last year,” he said. “It felt like everything came full circle; it was truly special.”
An Unforgettable Song
As for songs that have gained new significance, Wonbin pointed to “Impossible.” “The chorus repeats three times, and by the end, it can be exhausting,” he said. “But the audience’s participation made it an entirely different experience. I didn’t even feel tired; the energy was incredible.”
Celebrating Two Years Together
Having just celebrated their two-year anniversary, the camaraderie among the members was evident. “We’re feeling closer than ever,” Shotaro commented, noting the growth in their musical abilities and teamwork. Eunseok agreed, citing their evolving communication style, adding, “It’s a back-and-forth dialogue we have with each other now.”
Sohee reflected on her personal growth: “It’s not just about singing and dancing; I’ve learned how to enjoy the show by truly connecting with the audience.” Her insights echo what many performers experience—the realization that it’s not just about the performance, but the relationships formed with fans.
Looking Ahead
As they look to the future, the members of Riize have clear goals. Anton expressed a desire to discover and solidify the group’s core identity. “We want to find our musical essence as we continue to experiment and challenge ourselves,” he said, excitement evident in his voice.
“Coachella or a stadium in New Jersey would be a dream performance,” Shotaro noted, with Anton adding, “The Sphere in Las Vegas would be amazing too.” Their aspirations are as vibrant as their onstage personas.
Building Connections and Strengths
When discussing their dynamics, Sohee talked about the learning process that comes from frequent interactions. “Being a group is like being a family,” she said. “We learn to work through disagreements and grow together.” It’s this kind of solidarity that helps them navigate the complexities of fame and performance.
Shifting focus to the group’s strengths, Sohee loves how much she’s learned from her members. “I admire Eunseok’s calmness and stability,” she said, highlighting the importance of each member’s traits.
As the members recognize their shy tendencies, they bring the same warmth into their interactions. Their shared growth reflects the reality of navigating fame while becoming open to change.
A Legacy in the Making
When asked what they want people to think of when they hear “Riize,” Sungchan said, “We want people to see our individual strengths, but also how we grow together.” It’s a collective spirit that underpins their art—each album, each performance weaving the threads of their experiences into a vibrant tapestry.
“We’re just a bunch of guys in our twenties,” Anton reflected, emphasizing that the themes they share in their music reflect real-world experiences. “We’ll continue doing what we do, and hope people resonate with it.”
Why Rioze Matters in Today’s K-Pop Landscape
In a constantly evolving K-pop landscape, Riize stands out not just for their music but for their authenticity and determination to grow as a group. They mirror the journey many young artists go through—finding their rhythm and voice in the world. As they embrace new musical styles and strengthen their bonds with fans, they show what it means to adapt, challenge norms, and remain genuine in an industry that often prizes flash over substance.
For fans and followers, Riize’s story is a reminder that the pursuit of identity is universal—whether in music, career, or life. They’re not just musicians; they’re relatable young men finding their way, and in the process, inviting us all to grow with them.
