[INTERVIEW] NAZE Ready to Take Over The World Following Their Debut

C9 Entertainment’s maknae group, NAZE, finally made their debut on May 9, 2026 with the release of a self-titled mini album. Following the milestone, the seven-member group shared their excitement, long-term goals, and the preparations that led to their breakthrough.

When asked about their feelings about finally making their debut, NAZE members admitted that they were nervous, but more than anything, they were excited. “We’re so excited to finally be able to show everything we’ve been working so hard on and practicing for a long time. I’m honestly so happy that I can barely sleep at night,” Younki shared. Yuya added that he could not wait to get on stage and meet the people who had been supporting them throughout their journey. He wanted to showcase NAZE’s music and personalities. Kimkun assured that they had many great songs, not only on their debut album but also on future releases.

Before officially debuting, NAZE members participated in a Japanese drama titled Dream Stage, which premiered in January. Dohyeok and Kimkun shared that the experience made them much more comfortable in front of the camera, serving as great preparation for launching their careers in the entertainment industry.“Although we’re newbies, we can show more confidence and presence that feels more experienced,” Kimkun expressed. The project also helped improve their teamwork. They believed they could overcome any challenges that came their way because of their strong bond as a team.

Aside from starring in the drama, the boys also released several songs for the drama’s OST, such as Wanderlust and Little Star. To broaden their experience, NAZE also held several showcases in Japan earlier this year. “Everything was challenging at first. As we went through the tour, we learned how to truly enjoy performing together as seven members and how to communicate with the audience. I feel like we learned so much from it. It became not only a great learning experience but also a really meaningful memory,” Ato noted. He treasured the experience as a valuable step in their journey.

Regarding their group identity, Kaisei hoped that people would see NAZE as a natural, fun, and diverse group with a lot of charm. Younki agreed, saying that he wanted the group to have fun and truly enjoy themselves on stage. He wanted them to feel completely free while showing their absolute best to the public. As performers, Younki hoped NAZE could express their feelings well and fully deliver the messages they wanted to share.

As for their long-term goals, the seven-member group placed “making it big” at the top of their list. The reason was simple, they wanted to hear their songs playing all over the world. “Whether it’s walking into a store or just traveling in another country, if we happen to pass by somewhere and hear a NAZE song coming from the speakers, that would make me incredibly happy,” Ato confessed. Dohyeok, on the other hand, expressed his desire for the group to grow to the point where there would be no place in the world where people did not know them. The group also dreamed of performing at huge overseas festivals, especially Coachella and Glastonbury Festival.

When asked about specific countries they would like to visit after debuting, Turn excitedly answered, “Definitely Thailand!” As the newest Thai idol to debut in the K-pop industry, Turn wanted to bring his members to his hometown. He shared that there are many delicious foods to try and that the hot weather is worth experiencing. Ato also mentioned that it would be nice to visit the United States, both to perform and to travel with the members.

Talking about performing, the group revealed that they had a special habit before going on stage. “We put our fists together in a circle and raise them. Then on the count of two, we shout ‘NAZE!’ while stomping our feet twice,” Kimkun explained. As for his personal habit, Younki usually says, “Let’s get it!” and “Just do it!” before performing. The self-cheer helps calm him down and gets himself into a fighting mindset.

Debuting with their self-titled mini album, NAZE, Ato revealed that the title reflected their desire to present their true selves and tell honest stories to the public. They hoped people could connect with their authenticity and enjoy their performances in a genuine and happy way. The positive energy was perfectly conveyed through the album’s four easy-listening tracks, Pretty Pink Socks, People Talk, Awesome, and Seoul. Although they started with hip-hop-based songs, the group does not want to limit itself to one genre. “We would love to try all the genres in this world because we just naturally love music,” Turn shared. “Don’t forget to check us out!”

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The Seoul Story would like to thank C9 Entertainment and NAZE for the interview opportunity!

Written by: Ilona Cecilia
Photos by: C9 Entertainment

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