[TMA Interview] RIIZE, from 'Next Leader' to 'Muse of the Year'

3 years after their debut, RIIZE took the stage at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS'Won 'Artist of the Year' and two other awards, vowing to "reach even higher"RIIZE won two awards, 'Muse of the Year' and 'Artist of the Year,' at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium on September 19. / Reporter Park Sang-min[By Reporter Park Ji-yoon] RIIZE, who received a rookie award in the year of their debut at the 'THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS', stood tall as the recipient of the grand prize three years later. Proving their explosive growth on the same stage, they reaffirmed their determination to reach greater heights, building on their dazzling achievements.RIIZE achieved a remarkable feat by winning two trophies, 'Muse of the Year' and 'Artist of the Year,' at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS (2026 TMA)' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium on September 19.Debuting in the K-pop scene in 2023, RIIZE became a million-seller upon debut and secured both mainstream popularity and a strong fandom by placing their debut song 'Get A Guitar' high on music charts. Buoyed by this success, they achieved remarkable results by winning the 'Next Leader' award at the 'THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' that year, given to the most outstanding rookie.And three years later, RIIZE returned to the 'THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS', captivating audiences worldwide with their unique music and message, solidifying their position as a muse of the era. They were awarded 'Muse of the Year,' presented to artists who inspire and move fans globally, and 'Artist of the Year,' recognizing the artist with the most outstanding performance throughout the year, once again proving their explosive growth.RIIZE, who has grown in stature through their active global endeavors, set the Busan night ablaze with their unique colors at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS'. Eunseok and Wonbin, Sungchan and Sohee, and Seunghan and Anton captivated the audience with their appearances across the stage, delivering a refreshing atmosphere and spectacular performances with 'D-D-DONE' and 'DO YOUR DANCE', igniting the crowd.RIIZE expressed their joy, stating, "It feels so good to be back at the 'THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' after three years and to receive such precious awards." The photo shows them performing at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium in Yeonje-gu, Busan, on September 19. / Reporter Nam Yong-heeAfter successfully completing their stage and receiving two trophies, RIIZE met with and shared their excitement, saying, "It feels so good to be back at the 'THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' after three years and to receive such precious awards. Thank you."Sohee said, "I've thanked our BRIIZE (fandom name) so many times, but I don't think I've properly told you I love you. BRIIZE, I love you," she said with a bright smile.Sungchan added, "I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my family. Mom and Dad, thank you so much."RIIZE's single 'Fame,' released last November, received critical acclaim from music media worldwide, including in the US and UK, and their second mini-album 'II,' released in June, made them a four-time million-seller, adding another irreplaceable record.Furthermore, the members achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the 'fastest K-pop boy group to enter Tokyo Dome,' holding their first world tour at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. They also heated up South America with performances in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil as part of Lollapalooza, creating unforgettable memories with fans worldwide.Looking back at their busy 2026, Eunseok recalled, "Our 3rd-anniversary fan meeting is the most memorable. It was a really fun memory," while Sungchan added, "I also remember our 3rd-anniversary fan meeting because it was held recently. And I remember our first world tour at the Tokyo Dome earlier this year."RIIZE added, "We plan to make a comeback with a new look and will release a full album next year, so please look forward to it." The photo shows them giving their acceptance speech after winning the 'Grand Prize MUSE OF THE YEAR' at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium in Yeonje-gu, Busan, on September 19. / Reporter LEE SAEROMSeunghan continued, "I also remember winning first place on a music show. And I'm so happy to receive the grand prize today," while Wonbin emphasized, "I think today's award will be the most memorable. It's been a while since we've been here, and we're so grateful for this valuable award. Please invite us again next time."Sohee shared, "The Lollapalooza tour in South America was impressive. I have vivid memories of performing powerfully with the members," and Anton added, "I feel the same way. Performing on stage on my birthday felt truly electrifying. It remains a good memory."Earlier, RIIZE held their 3rd-anniversary fan meeting in September, and immediately after the concert, they teased future activities, capturing fans' attention.The group will release their new song 'Insomnia' on the 26th, showcasing the distinct charms of each member's vocals. While reveling in the joy of their awards, they hinted at the team's future endeavors, drawing keen interest.Sohee urged, "We plan to make a comeback with a new look, so please look forward to it," while Sungchan emphasized, "We are diligently preparing for year-end stages and plan to release a full album next year, so please look forward to it."Having gone from receiving a rookie award to winning the grand prize at the same venue, RIIZE concluded by expressing their special affection for their fans: "We were able to receive awards and come this far thanks to our BRIIZE. We will continue to strive and reach even higher. We love you."jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]