ATEEZ: The Pioneers of K-pop's Next Generation
An eight-member South Korean boy group renowned for their powerful performances, intricate story-driven concepts, and global impact.Formed by KQ Entertainment, ATEEZ debuted on October 24, 2018, with the EP 'Treasure EP.1: All to Zero' and the title track 'Pirate King'. The group consists of members Hongjoong (leader, rapper, producer), Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi (rapper), Wooyoung, and Jongho (main vocalist).They quickly gained international attention for their high-energy stage presence, complex lore centered around finding their 'Treasure' and battling oppression (the 'Halateez' storyline), and self-produced music contributions, primarily from Hongjoong and Mingi.ATEEZ is known for breaking records on international music charts like Billboard and achieving significant global touring success.
- ATEEZ developed an extensive fictional universe (ATEEZ Universe) spanning music videos, web comics, and prequel content, involving parallel worlds, time travel, and rebellion against tyranny, captivating fans worldwide.
- They hold the record for the highest first-week sales for a debut album by a K-pop boy group at the time (2018) and were the first K-pop group to perform on Poland's 'Tylko Rock' Festival main stage in 2023.
- Member Mingi took a hiatus from late 2020 to mid-2021 due to anxiety, highlighting the pressures faced by idols; his return was met with overwhelming support from fans (ATINY).