RIIZE celebrates K-pop’s history with “Hug,” a remake of TVXQ!’s debut single, part of SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary.
RIIZE ushers in 2025 with “Hug,” a reimagining of TVXQ!’s 2004 debut single. Released as part of SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary album, the track combines Y2K-inspired elements with RIIZE’s distinct harmonies, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary sound that honors K-pop’s rich history.
The track is part of a larger anniversary celebration by SM Entertainment, which includes the SMTOWN LIVE 2025 Tour. The global tour begins January 11 and 12 in Seoul, with additional stops in Mexico City, Los Angeles, London, and Tokyo.
RIIZE made waves in 2024 with their debut album, RIIZING, earning spots on GRAMMY and Billboard’s Best K-pop lists. Their music also brought home multiple awards, including Best Male Group at the Melon Music Awards, cementing their position as one of K-pop’s fastest-rising groups.
With “Hug,” RIIZE demonstrates their ability to bridge generations of K-pop, reinterpreting a classic track with modern sensibilities. This release celebrates SM Entertainment’s remarkable legacy while spotlighting RIIZE as a leading force in the next era of K-pop.
