“History in making”: Netizens react as RIIZE announces their debut studio album ODYSSEY out May 19

2024 MAMA Awards - Source: Getty
RIIZE announces their debut studio album ‘ODYSSEY’ (Image via Getty)

RIIZE, the popular South Korean boy band, plans to take a big step in their music career by dropping their first full album, ODYSSEY, on May 19. The boy band has six members: Eunseok, Shotaro,Sungchan, Sohee, Wonbin, and Anton. After a run of hit releases and promotions, the group wants to showcase a deeper, clearer artistic style through this project. The album will have 10 songs, and fans can pre-order it from April 28.

To shake things up, the group has set up a special promo event called "RIIZE PREMIERE." This event allows fans to hear all the tracks before they officially come out. Online sneak peeks start on May 14, with in-person events kicking off on May 15. The group also got fans excited by putting out a top-notch trailer at midnight on April 28 on their YouTube channel.

“History in making,” a fan wrote on X.

Netizens react as RIIZE announces their debut studio album ‘ODYSSEY’ out May 19

Fans reacted with their excitement for the release of the album stating they couldn't wait for May 19.

"Can't believe the debut is finally happening! Counting down to May 19th for 'ODYSSEY,'" a fan wrote.
"Wow im excited for this," another fan wrote.
"I would love to listen to ever bit of it," another user wrote.

Another user also remarked how this new album could potentially redifine emotional pop.

"RIIZE’s ODYSSEY is about to redefine Emotional Pop—mark your calendars for May 19th!" an X user wrote.

Looking at the portfolio this boy band already has and its popularity even before their debut album, one fan found it funny that they were calling this album their debut.

"RIIZE announces their debut" calling it a debut when you have like a playlist of songs out already," a fan commented on X.

While the band was receiving all this praise and support, some K-pop fans even remarked how there was still gender inequality in the music industry, comparing the girl band AESPA and how they had to wait even longer for an album.

"Really? AESPA has to wait 3 years of a Studio Album and a other group who debuted 1 year ago will had their Studio Album, SM girls & boys deserve the same tratement," an X user reacted.

Also read: From BTS’ Jin to SEVENTEEN to MEOVV: K-pop acts set to drop new music in May 2025


RIIZE gears up for "ODYSSEY" with bold moves and growing influence

Building up the buzz, the South Korean boy band set up a special Instagram account @riize_odyssey, to give fans up-to-the-minute news before the album drops. The group shared sneak peek pictures on different social media sites, which got fans and K-pop lovers all fired up.

Since their debut, the group has built a name for pushing the limits of music and concepts. Their unique "Emotional Pop" style has led to several hit songs and major awards, including chart wins and multiple honors at the end of 2024.

ODYSSEY is more than just a new album; it shows the group's goal to change their place in the industry. With a solid fan base and a clear creative path, the group's latest work aims to strengthen their growing sway in the changing world of K-pop.


As the wait begins, fans and industry watchers are eager to see how the group's next phase starts with ODYSSEY, a release that looks to show both artistic growth and a strong statement of purpose.

Edited by Ayesha Mendonca