Photo = Hanteo Global

 

Group NAZE (Ato, Kaisei, Younki, Turn, Yuya, Kimkun, and Dohyeok) has taken its first step into the music industry.

 

NAZE recently met with Hanteo News at Whosfan Studio and shared stories about their first mini album NAZE.

 

The group name “NAZE” refers to a geographical formation where the sea and land meet. It reflects their ambition to find their true selves within infinite possibilities, able to move in any direction. They are also C9 Entertainment’s first new boy group in five years and the company’s first multinational boy group. From a b-boying talent to an Overwatch, ranked gamer and former trainees from major agencies, the seven members each bring out their distinct colors.

 

The title track “People Talk” conveys confidence in not being shaken by others’ opinions. Ato explained, “It’s a song that expresses our carefree and happy moments regardless of what others say. It starts with a lively piano sound from the intro, and all seven members sing together in the chorus.” Kimkun added, “When I first heard it, the chorus melody stayed in my head for weeks. I remember thinking that if it was this catchy for me, others would enjoy it easily too, so it had to be the title track.”

 

The members’ role models were also diverse. Kaisei said, “I’ve wanted to become a K-pop artist since I was young after watching Jimin. His stage presence and aura are amazing.” Kimkun shared, “Zico is my role model because he creates everything himself, from rap and producing to challenges, and his fashion is always trendy.” Dohyeok said, “I want to resemble BTS’s Jungkook, who continues to evolve even after many years since debut,” while Turn added, “BTS’s j-hope started with dance and excels in rap and vocals too. I want to become that kind of artist.”

 

Yuya said, “I admire Stray Kids’ Hyunjin for his unique vibe and aura, and I want to become an idol with that kind of individuality.” Ato added, “RIIZE’s Sohee looks genuinely happy when performing on stage, which inspires me a lot. I also want to become a versatile idol.”

 

Each member’s individuality stands out. Younki, who trained at both YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment, said, “Some friends I trained with have already debuted, and some are my age. I hope we can do a year-end collaboration stage someday.” Yuya, from Japan, is skilled in b-boying and shared, “I want to show big moves like windmills or flares on stage someday.” Kimkun is passionate about gaming, having once ranked between 200–300 in Overwatch, saying, “I’d like to communicate with fans by playing games together someday.”

 

Ato and Turn use stage names within the group. Ato recalled, “We wrote down over 100 candidates and discussed them, and then the name just suddenly came to me.” Turn, who is from Thailand, said his name means “turn” or “chance,” explaining, “I thought ‘my turn’ fit well with debut, so I suggested it to the company myself.”

 

They also shared stories about their dorm life, where all seven live together. They always eat meals together. Younki said, “The happiest moments are when all seven of us eat together. Everyone loves food, so no one skips meals.” There were also fun roommate stories. Turn joked about Kaisei, saying, “The one thing I’d like him to fix is the smell and sound of him eating snacks at night—it makes me want to eat too.” Ato added, “Dohyeok also suddenly eats snacks at night, and it sounds like ASMR, which makes me hungry.” When asked if he had any complaints about the older members, the youngest Dohyeok replied calmly, “I really don’t,” drawing laughter.

 

Regarding their team structure without a leader, Ato explained, “All seven members have very distinct personalities, so when we come together, we create synergy. Instead of fixed positions, we blend together and carry out our roles collectively.”

 

Their goals and ambitions were also clear. Ato said, “We want to leave a strong impression of NAZE as we are to global audiences and become artists who represent Korea. I also want to stand on the Tokyo Dome stage someday.” Turn added, “I would be very happy if we could win Rookie of the Year, and we’ll show NAZE’s unique charm.”

 

At the end of the interview, NAZE left messages for themselves one year later. Younki said, “You’re doing well, keep going and let’s get it.” Turn added briefly, “What do we need to do? Just work hard.” Yuya said, “Let’s keep trying new things and continue doing well as NAZE,” while Dohyeok encouraged himself, “You’re doing great and will keep doing well. Fighting.”

 

Ato said, “Did you achieve all the promises you made a year ago? I believe you did, let’s keep going.” Kimkun joked, “Don’t get arrogant just because it’s your first anniversary. Stay humble and handle things properly.” Kaisei concluded, “Don’t forget your初心 and keep working hard.”

 

NAZE’s first mini album NAZE was released today (4th) at 6 PM on major music platforms.