"Mmchk, the Sound of a New Era": NEXZ Proves Their 'Next-Gen' Status at Global Showcase

Recent
Writing a Happy Ending with '42': TWS Embarks on a Bold, "Straight-Line" Romance
Youn Yuh-jung vs. Song Kang-ho: 3 Key Reasons ‘Beef’ Season 2 is More Explosive Than Ever
Madonna Announces Long-Awaited Return with ‘Confessions II’ Slated for July 3
KATSEYE Set to Heat Up the Summer with New EP ‘WILD’ This August
IVE Proves Dominance in Japan with Sold-Out Kyocera Dome Dates Ahead of Tokyo Return

"We are breaking the mold. We’re here to crush the stage with a vibe that is uniquely NEXZ."

JYP Entertainment’s "Next Generation," NEXZ, has made a powerful return. The comeback begins with a cryptic title: "Mmchk." Neither an onomatopoeia nor a standard word, this curious term was coined specifically to define the group’s identity.

"Mmchk represents a presence—a 'heads-up' to the world," explained member Sogo. "Whenever we shout 'Mmchk,' it’s a signal to watch our overflowing charm and energy."

On the 27th, NEXZ held a media showcase at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their second single album, Mmchk. During the event, the group delivered high-octane performances of the title track and the B-side, "HYPEMAN."

This comeback feels particularly momentous. Marking their first showcase in two years since their global debut in May 2024, it served as a proving ground to show the growth and "inner strength" they have cultivated. The members appeared more poised than ever, sporting bold visual transitions—notably Hyui’s blonde transformation and Seita’s first-ever black hair since debut.

Reflecting on their two-year journey, Tomoya noted, "The 'NEXZ color' has become much more distinct. We’ve spent two years preparing the vibe to truly enjoy the stage." Sogo added that performing at year-end award shows alongside senior artists acted as a catalyst for their growth, providing the inspiration needed for this sophisticated return.

The title track, "Mmchk," is a high-energy dance track built on a Base House foundation, featuring playful rap verses and an addictive beat. True to their nickname as a group of "natural-born dancers," the performance was the highlight, capturing a sense of freedom and a "cool" aesthetic that prioritizes authentic attraction over rigid standards.

A defining feature of this album is the members’ creative involvement. Tomoya, Hyui, and Yuki are credited as lyricists for "Mmchk," while Yuki and Tomoya also penned "HYPEMAN." Yuki revealed that his favorite lyric—"Because you shine, I can shine too"—was inspired by the sight of fans glowing in the audience.

As a multinational group comprising six Japanese members and one Korean member, the creative process involved meticulous effort. Hyui joked about constantly checking dictionaries to ensure their Korean lyrics hit the right mark. Regarding their diverse background, Tomoya confidently stated, "There are no disadvantages. The greatest strength is that our multinational nature allows us to connect with fans in so many different cities."

Embracing the title of JYP’s "Next Generation" and the "younger brother group of Stray Kids," the members expressed more gratitude than pressure. "It’s a title we’ve always wanted," Hyui emphasized. Seita added, "We will continue the path our seniors paved while establishing our own unique musical identity."

NEXZ is now setting its sights on the global stage. Following this release, the group will hold showcases in Taipei, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, alongside their first arena tour in Japan. They are also slated to perform in Brazil this September.

Closing with a bold ambition, Seita declared, "We were nominees for first place during our last promotion, which left us hungry for more. This time, our goal is to hit No. 1 on the music charts."

Mmchk drops today at 6:00 PM KST, featuring the title track, "HYPEMAN," and an English version of "Mmchk."