Who did ATEEZ perform with in KPOPPED episode 5? Details explored 

ATEEZ grabbed the spotlight in Episode 5 of KPOPPED, Apple TV+'s global music mash-up that launched on August 29, 2025. The group split in half. One unit teamed with Kylie Minogue to remix her electro hit Can't Get You Out of My Head, while the other joined J Balvin for a fresh twist on Mi Gente.

KPOPPED’s setup pushes K-pop acts to break into smaller crews and rework Western hits with their own style, blending sharp moves, vocals, and stage flair into brand-new performances. Each round plays out live in Seoul, where the audience picks the winning collaboration on the spot.

This time, Mi Gente with Balvin took the win, but the KPOPPED episode was about more than scoring votes. ATEEZ proved just how easily they can bounce between sleek electronic pop and fiery reggaeton, showing off their range. At the same time, the performances hinted at the tricky side of global teamwork, where the magic can explode on stage even if the process hits bumps behind the curtain.

How did their performance on KPOPPED go and why did J Balvin face backlash?

ATEEZ divided strategically for their dual performances in Episode 5 of KPOPPED. Jongho, Yunho, Wooyoung, and Seonghwa formed the first unit. They worked alongside Kylie Minogue to transform her 2001 hit “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” into a K-pop-influenced arrangement.

The electronic dance track presented unique opportunities for K-pop reinterpretation. Minogue’s signature song features repetitive hooks and dance-friendly beats that align well with K-pop’s emphasis on catchy melodies and synchronized choreography.

Meanwhile, Yeosang, San, Hongjoong, and Mingi comprised the second unit, collaborating with J Balvin on “Mi Gente.” The Latin reggaeton anthem required different vocal and performance approaches compared to Minogue’s electronic style. Both units had to adapt their usual group dynamics to work effectively in smaller configurations. Meanwhile, they also had to accommodate their respective Western collaborators’ artistic visions and performance styles.

In Episode 5 of KPOPPED, the Seoul public declared J Balvin and ATEEZ the victors after their scorching rendition of Mi Gente outperformed Kylie Minogue’s duet. The combination of reggaeton sounds and ATEEZ’s high-energy stage presence resonated with voters, demonstrating how effectively Latin rhythms and K-pop flair can mingle.

Kylie’s team did not go empty-handed, however; their reworked electronic classic received accolades for highlighting ATEEZ’s ability to stretch across styles. Both numbers proved the group could keep their identity intact while weaving in Western pop influences and honoring each artist’s musical roots.

The KPOPPED episode also shed light on some rough edges in the partnership. Balvin stumbled in rehearsals, at times seeming unsteady in adapting to the fast-paced K-pop prep style. Even small things, like repeatedly mispronouncing ATEEZ’s name, stood out more because of his earlier connection with the group. Just a year prior, he’d cheered them on at Coachella and even shared photos with them online, hinting at mutual respect. That history made the collaboration feel like it should have been smoother, which only threw the bumps in their teamwork into sharper focus.

What are the implications of a collaboration like this?

The KPOPPED Episode 5 fallout put a spotlight on the tricky side of cross-cultural music mash-ups. When musicians from diverse backgrounds share a stage, the balance can only be maintained if both parties show respect and remain completely involved. ATEEZ’s constant professionalism throughout the process shows why they are known as adaptable performers who are unafraid of new challenges.

Their collaborations with Kylie Minogue and J Balvin revealed that they could shift styles without losing their individuality. At the same time, the behind-the-scenes disagreement illustrated how language limitations, cultural conventions, and varying work cycles can hinder even the best-intentioned relationships.

Mi Gente eventually won the audience prize, but the larger narrative was about how these collaborations highlighted both the benefits and difficulties of global partnerships. ATEEZ came out looking polished and versatile, showing they could carry their professionalism into any genre. The episode itself underlined just how fragile cross-border creative chemistry can be.

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You can watch KPOPPED exclusively on Apple TV+.

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