RIIZE Members Share 2026 Goals After Historic Year-End Performances

As 2026 kicks off, RIIZE is approaching their packed schedule with fresh enthusiasm. The SM Entertainment group recently reflected on their standout 2025 year-end stages and revealed what they're most excited about in the months ahead.

Fresh off performances at major award shows including the Melon Music Awards, where they delivered a trilogy of "Fame," "Bag Bad Back," and "Fly Up," the six members opened up about their ambitions and upcoming milestones.

MMA Performance Stands Out Among Year-End Stages

Several members pointed to the Melon Music Awards as their most memorable performance of the season. The show, held December 20 at Gocheok Sky Dome, saw RIIZE earn Top 10 Artist recognition.

Shotaro recalled the musical-style "Fly Up" performance that drew strong crowd reactions. "We tried various approaches that day," he said, though he admitted injuring his ankle during preparation made it challenging.

Eunseok highlighted the group's chemistry during MMA rehearsals. "Coordinating everything was difficult, but when it all came together, it was thrilling," he explained.

Wonbin noted how exhaustion never dampened their determination. "We kept encouraging each other because these year-end stages matter so much to us," he said.

At the SBS Gayo Daejeon, individual dance breaks surprised even the members themselves. Sohee mentioned being particularly shocked by Shotaro's section.

How Each Member Defines 2025

When asked to describe their year in one word, the responses varied:

Shotaro chose "New," emphasizing growth through new challenges. Eunseok picked "Diversity" for the range of activities and unforgettable memories created.

Sungchan selected "Unity," referring to how preparing their first full album "ODYSSEY" and concert tour brought everyone closer. "In 2026, I want to soar higher with that strength," he added.

Wonbin kept it simple with "You worked hard," acknowledging the physical toll but praising how they pushed through.

Sohee went with "Contemplation," explaining how the team constantly strategized about standing out in 2025's competitive landscape.

Anton chose "ODYSSEY" itself, their debut album title. "We truly realized RIIZE's own odyssey last year," he said, adding that he's learned there's no end to growth.

What's Ahead in 2026

The group's schedule launches immediately with Samsung Electronics' "The First Look" event at CES 2026 in Las Vegas on January 4. Eunseok expressed particular excitement about seeing new gaming monitors, given his interest in gaming.

Their world tour resumes with Asian dates: Jakarta on January 10, Manila on January 17, and Singapore on January 24. Macau follows on February 7.

The biggest milestone comes February 21-23 at Tokyo Dome, where they'll become the fastest K-pop boy group to perform at the venue-just two years and five months after their September 2023 debut. Shotaro called it a childhood dream, while Sohee declared his determination to captivate the audience completely.

"I won't just stand on that stage-I'll make people say RIIZE deserves even bigger stages," Sohee emphasized.

Their second Japanese single "All of You" drops February 18, featuring the title track plus B-side "Flashlight." Shotaro recommended it as his New Year song pick.

The tour concludes March 6-8 at Seoul's KSPO Dome with "RIIZING LOUD FINALE IN SEOUL." Wonbin, born in the Year of the Horse, hopes 2026-also a Horse year-brings passionate energy both personally and for the team.

Song Recommendations for 2026

Members shared RIIZE tracks that embody their hopes for the year.

Eunseok recommended "Sticky Like" to showcase their mature side. Sungchan and Anton both chose "Odyssey" from their first full album, while Wonbin picked "Fly Up" to symbolize soaring freely. Sohee suggested "Fame" alongside his Tokyo Dome determination.

Anton also mentioned wanting to grow as a musician and person. "Beyond confidence, I want to become someone I'm proud of," he said.

Sungchan expressed similar creative ambitions: "I want to pour my heart into our upcoming album so it becomes a masterpiece people remember."

The members wrapped their reflections with appreciation for fans, staff, and each other-ready to tackle 2026's challenges with the same unity that defined their breakthrough year.