The members of RIIZE are experts in not wasting all these special feelings. The K-Pop boy group just finished off their US leg for their RIIZE CONCERT TOUR [RIIZING LOUD], and they’re reminscing on all the fond memories in the states.
The group—consisting of SHOTARO, EUNSEOK, SUNGCHAN, WONBIN, SOHEE, and ANTON—has been making waves ever since their debut in 2023. Just before embarking on their world tour, they released their debut full-length album Odyssey, which amped up anticipation for their beloved fans BRIIZE. They made stops in Los Angeles, Chicago, and dropped by New York City to take some snaps across the city.
For some members, it was their first time exploring the US, and they wanted to relish in all the activities like ice skating at Rockefeller Center, fanmeets at K-Pop Nara, and lighting up the Empire State Building. For ANTON, their show at The Theater at Madison Square Garden was very special since he grew up in New Jersey. The members even surprised him on stage to create a moment they’ll always remember.
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Below, we caught up with the members about their experiences and what they look forward to after the exhilarating tour.
How was the start of the tour at Rosemont?
WONBIN: The energy in the U.S. just hits different. At Rosemont, the roar literally cut through my in-ears, I can’t help but get swept up in it every time. I had the best time performing! Lately, I’ve been practicing my English a lot too because I really want to connect more with our fans and make every show even more special and unforgettable.
What’s it like backstage before the show? Are there any pre-performance rituals that you do?
SOHEE: Backstage, we’re all busy getting ready — everyone’s stretching, warming up, and getting in the zone. About thirty minutes before the show, we huddle up to run through our comments, choreography, and vocals one last time.
You’ve met a lot of artists when you were here for ACL and KCON. I remember Anton made a Weverse post about meeting Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast and saying that it was really cool, and also watching Sabrina Carpenter perform! Did any of the artists give any tour advice, or is there something that you learned from these artists when you watched them perform?
ANTON: I’d say just being in that whole festival atmosphere was the biggest takeaway for me. Meeting Michelle Zauner (Japanese Breakfast) and seeing Sabrina Carpenter was definitely memorable, but what stood out most was witnessing the sheer number of people there — especially since I haven’t been to many festivals yet. Watching the headliners close out their sets was so cool and genuinely inspiring. Hopefully one day, at an event like that, even more people will know RIIZE. I can’t wait for that day to come.
How did your ACL performance prep you to perform for the tour?
SUNGCHAN: Performing at ACL was such an unforgettable experience. Since it was an outdoor show, I got to really understand the sound and distance of the stage, which helped me grow a lot as a performer. But honestly, BRIIZE’s energy made all the difference — the crowd was so passionate, it totally fired me up and got me hyped for the tour.
You’ve explored some cities during your tour and walked around, and done some sightseeing. What’s your favorite part of exploring a new city, and how does it compare to when you’re in Korea?
EUNSEOK: My favorite part is getting to really feel the vibe of each city. I love going around with the members and trying famous local spots — especially the food! Even just walking down the streets and meeting people there feels fresh and exciting every time. I also enjoy seeing our fans.
Was there anything that you ticked off your tour bucket list?
SOHEE: I’ve always wanted to visit Times Square and the Empire State Building, and I finally got to see them in person! It felt a little surreal. I want to keep checking out iconic spots in every city and make fun memories I can share with BRIIZE.
All the members have also been making really cool content on the road with your TikTok videos. How has that experience been?
SHOTARO: Every city we visit has its own vibe and such beautiful scenery that honestly, anywhere you film looks great. I often discuss ideas with our content team, and I’m always scrolling through shorts and TikToks too. Whenever I find something fun, I’ll send it to the members right away and go, “We have to try this!”
How were your activities at the Empire State Building?
ANTON: I’ve been to the Empire State Building before, but it had been a few years, so I was really excited to go again. Taking part in the donation to the nonprofit organization Musicians On Call through our collaboration with Amazon Music — and seeing the building lit up in our color, orange — was something I never could’ve imagined just a few years ago. The craziest part was going all the way to the top, to an area that’s usually off-limits to the public, and seeing the city stretch out across the river to Jersey. It was such an unforgettable sight, and I feel really lucky to have had that experience.
What’s your favorite stage and/or song to perform?
WONBIN: I’d say “Siren” for sure. The moment I sing the first line, it’s like my adrenaline just explodes! It’s definitely one of our toughest songs to perform, but that’s what makes it so exciting. I think it shows RIIZE’s energy better than any other track.
Where does your mind go when you’re on stage performing?
EUNSEOK: When I’m on stage, I try not to think too much — I just focus and let myself get completely lost in the performance. Since we don’t get to see our fans in North America often, I want every second to count. In that moment, all I’m thinking about is giving them the best show possible.
Do you have any favorite and specific memories with BRIIZE during the tour?
SUNGCHAN: The eye contact moments I had during our Japan show really stayed with me. Later, I remember reading a fan letter that said, “You brightened my day,” and it truly moved me. Moments like that remind me why I love performing.
What’s a rewarding moment during tour that you’ll always cherish?
SOHEE: Every moment on tour is special, but one that I’ll always cherish is singing “Show Me Love” together with our fans. Hearing everyone’s voices fill the venue gave me chills — it was pure happiness. It was actually one of the things on my bucket list, and now it’s a memory I’ll keep forever.
Do you reflect after each performance?
SHOTARO: Yes! After every show, we always go back and review our performances. I’ll think, “Maybe I should try this move or say that line differently tomorrow,” and start coming up with new ideas. For this tour, there’s a freestyle part during “Fly Up”, and I pick a different member each time — it’s a little surprise for the crowd. I even come up with new solo dance moves late at night in my hotel room. I just can’t help it!
Does touring help you with your creative process for any upcoming music projects?
ANTON: Touring means spending a lot of time in hotel rooms, which also means a lot of time alone with your thoughts. Meeting fans from all over the world is also very inspiring — their energy and stories always spark new ideas for me. So yes, being on tour has a way of fueling creativity, sometimes even without me realizing it.
What’s something that you’ll take and remember from this tour that you’ll apply to every performance hereafter?
EUNSEOK: I’ve realized how important it is to have fun on stage and enjoy every moment with the audience. When we’re all having a good time together, that energy becomes something truly special. It’s a feeling I want to bring into every performance from now on.
