One of the most fascinating groups in K-pop’s 4th gen is ATEEZ. Whether they’re pirates from another dimension, or sophisticated gangsters, you never know what to expect from the group when they have a comeback.
If you’re just discovering ATEEZ or you want to learn more about them, you came to the right place.
The Members
- Hongjoong: Leader, main rapper, vocalist, composer, and center. He is known for his strong leadership and creative input, having many songwriting credits.
- Seonghwa: Lead vocalist and visual. He is recognized for his striking visuals and vocal skills.
- Yunho: Main dancer and lead vocalist. Known as the “dance teacher” of the group for his fast learning and teaching of choreography.
- Yeosang: Lead dancer, sub-vocalist, and visual. He is also called the “workout-holic” due to his dedication to fitness.
- San: Lead vocalist and face of the group. He is considered one of the group’s visuals.
- Mingi: Main rapper and main dancer, but also recognized for his vocal ability and for being a key performer.
- Wooyoung: Main dancer, vocalist, and visual. Known for his high energy and lively personality, often called the “tension up” of the group.
- Jongho: Main vocalist and maknae (youngest member). Despite being the youngest, he is regarded as the most mature, earning the “big brother” title within the group.
The Basics
ATEEZ is a South Korean boy group formed by KQ Entertainment. They debuted on October 24, 2018, with their first mini album Treasure EP.1: All to Zero, and originally trained under the name KQ Fellaz. The group released a pre-debut track, “From”, in July 2018 with fellow trainee Junyoung. They also trained in Los Angeles, and some of the members even appeared on the survival show MIXNINE.
Their fandom is called ATINY, a combination of ATEEZ and DESTINY. The name was announced on November 17, 2018 and it’s a symbol of how the group’s future is tied to their fans.
Their music is an eclectic mix of genres, ranging from hip-hop, trap, dubstep, EDM, and pop, often with influences of Middle Eastern melodies, Latin pop, tropical house, and synthwave. Their songs are bold, versatile, and often revolve around themes of rebellion, teamwork, growth, and confidence.
Behind the scenes, ATEEZ are involved in the production and songwriting process. They also take an active role in shaping their concept by discussing storylines and styling with their company.
List of Achievements
ATEEZ has consistently pushed boundaries—and the numbers back them up. Here are just a few standout milestones:
- They were featured in the Grammy Museum’s first ever K-pop exhibit, alongside labelmates xikers.
- They have the most wins among K-pop groups on the South Korean series Immortal Songs.
- They’re the first K-pop group ever to have three albums in the UK Top 10 albums in a single year.
- They achieved this with THE WORLD EP. 2 : OUTLAW (No. 10 in 2023), THE WORLD EP. FIN : WILL (No. 2 in 2023), and GOLDEN HOUR : Part. 1 (No. 4 in 2024).
- They’re the first K-pop boy group to perform at Coachella.
A Universe of Their Own
ATEEZ’s concept revolves around anarchism, revolution, duality and individuality. This was originally expressed as the members being pirates rebelling against the status quo. But over time, their lore evolved to incorporate alternate universes, time travel, and mirror-worlds. Through their music videos and albums, they use symbols like hourglasses.
Signature Tracks
ATEEZ’s discography spans multiple Korean and Japanese albums, including standout series like Treasure, Zero: Fever, The World, and Golden Hour. Their lead singles tend to be explosive anthems, balanced by B-sides that explore moodier, softer, or genre-blending sounds.
Key tracks that you should listen to are:
- “Guerrilla” – A rock-influenced firestorm with Hongjoong’s unforgettable scream
- “HALA HALA” – Theatrical, dark, and iconic
- “Eternal Sunshine” – Light, melodic, and emotionally resonant
- “Treasure” – A powerful debut song with sweeping instrumentals
- “Pirate King” – Trap meets pirate-core, a fearless combination
- “Say My Name” – A breakout anthem that’s confident and explosive
- “Wonderland” – Vibrant, orchestral, and cinematic
- “Wave” – A bright summer track with bittersweet undertones
- “Answer” – Elegant piano meets hard-hitting raps
- “Halazia” – Church organs and anti-drops that feel epic and urgent
- “Deja Vu” – Groovy, smooth, and addictive
- “BOUNCY (K-HOT CHILI PEPPERS)” – Fun, charming and full of energy
- “WORK” – Catchy with an addictive melody and hook
- “Ice On My Teeth” – A chill and sensual hip-hop track
Going Global
ATEEZ’s reach extends beyond Korea. In 2019, they signed with RCA Records in the U.S. and Nippon Columbia in Japan and held world tours where they actually traveled outside of Asia.
With a passionate international fanbase and recognition as cultural ambassadors, they’re helping carry the Korean Wave to every corner of the world. Whether you’re new to their world or a seasoned ATINY, only one thing’s for sure: their journey is just beginning.
