InterviewBoy band xikers channels chaos, confidence in 'SUPERPOWER (Peak)'

K-pop boy band xikers appears in the official teaser video for its upcoming release, “SUPERPOWER (Peak),” set to drop Friday. Courtesy of KQ Entertainment

For K-pop boy band xikers, chaos isn't something to tame; it's the group's fuel.

Formed in 2023 under KQ Entertainment, the label behind global sensation ATEEZ, the 10-member act — Minjae, Junmin, Sumin, Jinsik, Hyunwoo, Junghoon, Seeun, Hunter, Yujun and Yechan — quickly made its mark with raw, energetic stages.

The group's debut project, "HOUSE OF TRICKY: Doorbell Ringing," introduced xikers as time-traveling adventurers leaping through eras — a fitting metaphor for its own rapid rise.

That strong start quickly propelled the group onto Billboard's Top Album Sales and World Albums charts, and across global stages as they completed a North American and European tour, earning praise for a strong stage presence reminiscent of their label seniors.

Now, the group returns to write another chapter. With its sixth mini album, "HOUSE OF TRICKY: WRECKING THE HOUSE," featuring title track "SUPERPOWER (Peak)," out Friday, xikers is stepping into its boldest era yet, ready to turn chaos into power.

The 10 members of the K-pop boy band xikers / Courtesy of KQ Entertainment

"Through this new album, we wanted to really break out of the box and show what makes us us," said Minjae, who co-wrote parts of the album with Sumin and Yechan, during an interview with The Korea Times at a cafe in Seoul's Yongsan District on Wednesday.

"Our goal for this promotion is to perform like there's nothing to lose, singing until our voices give out if that's what it takes. If fans can feel that energy, that's our biggest success."

The group's new single, "SUPERPOWER (Peak)," is a fitting reflection of xikers' identity: unrestrained and explosive.

"There's even choreography that feels like popping open and chugging down a can of energy drink," Junmin said, laughing. "We want the audience to feel that rush too."

While the concept of "superpower" could be metaphorical, the members each had their own interpretation.

"For me, my superpower comes from our fans," said Yujun. "They're why I can perform with confidence, even on bigger stages."

Yechan found his strength closer to home. "Watching the other members grow motivates me not to fall behind. That becomes my own power," he said.

Hunter, the group's sole Thai member, believes xikers' magic lies in their contrasts.

"We're very playful and sometimes even mischievous offstage, but we turn that energy into something wild and powerful when we perform," he said. "That's our unique chemistry, our superpower."

10-piece K-pop boy band xikers / Courtesy of KQ Entertainment

For xikers, being under the same roof as K-pop juggernaut ATEEZ means inheriting not just their company's pedigree, but also their mentorship. The xikers members recalled moments of encouragement from their seniors that helped shape their perspective.

Yechan said San's praise for his dancing "gave me so much strength," while Minjae remembered Hongjoong's heartfelt words after xikers' first Seoul concert.

"He told us our passion gave him energy, and that it came at just the right moment for him," Minjae shared. "Hearing that kind of feedback from artists we admire made us realize we're on the right path, giving people strength and encouragement through our songs."

After earning attention on Billboard charts and completing the group's first global tour, the xikers members have set their sights even higher for their latest work.

Hunter said he hopes this album will help them land on top of the Billboard 200. "Winning first place on a local music show will always be our dream," Jinsik added with an ambitious grin.

And if there's one thing that defines this new chapter, Junghoon described it simply.

"The new song is an energy drink you drink with your ears. I hope people get that same boost when they listen. For us, it's a ten out of ten."

K-pop boy band xikers appears in the official teaser video for its upcoming release, “SUPERPOWER (Peak),” set to drop Friday. Courtesy of KQ Entertainment