NEXZ returns to K-pop scene with bold, bass-driven 'Mmchk'

Members of K-pop boy band NEXZ pose during a media showcase for the group's latest music release, "Mmchk," at Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

JYP Entertainment's seven-member global boy group NEXZ opened its 2026 chapter, Monday, with the release of its second single album "Mmchk," signaling a confident new push for wider recognition at home and abroad.

The group, composed of Tomoya, Yu, Haru, So Geon, Seita, Hyui and Yuki, is returning roughly six months after its October mini-album "Beat-Boxer" and nearly two years since its global debut with "Ride the Vibe" in May 2024.

To mark the occasion, NEXZ took the stage at a press showcase at Blue Square in Yongsan District, Seoul, just a few hours ahead of the album drop, so that members could discuss its creative process and what lies ahead.

For Yu, whose birthday happened to fall on release day, the moment carried personal weight.

"We're already entering our second year, and it still doesn't feel real," he said. "I still vividly remember our debut. We've gained so much experience along the way, and starting with this album, we want to work harder to introduce ourselves to even more people."

Members of K-pop boy band NEXZ pose during a press event for the group's latest release, "Mmchk," at Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

The album title itself is deliberately hard to pin down.

"Mmchk," the eponymous title track, lands somewhere between onomatopoeia and attitude, and according to JYP, the term is meant to capture the group's ethos of embracing the moment and moving without hesitation.

"Rather than fitting into a set mold, we wanted to tell our own story in our own way," Tomoya said. "It captures both our playful energy and our confidence."

The single album contains three tracks, including the title track, the B-side "HYPEMAN" and an English version of the lead single. Tomoya, Hyui and Yuki are credited as lyricists.

Sonically, "Mmchk" builds on a bass house foundation layered with playful rap and a hook that sticks. The production is energetic without being cluttered, letting the group's free-spirited image come through.

Where NEXZ continues to distinguish itself most clearly, however, is on stage. The group's choreography has a polished, confident quality that balances bold movement with genuine fluidity, a combination that speaks to K-pop's unique strength.

K-pop boy band NEXZ performs the group's latest release, "Mmchk," at Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap

Hyui singled out the choreography's central idea.

"The main move of the title track is designed to match the groovy rhythm, and it reflects our hope to draw more attention from listeners," he said.

The comeback arrives with an ambitious international schedule. Following a fan listening party on April 26 and a comeback showcase on April 27, the group heads overseas with showcase events planned in Taipei on May 4, Hong Kong on June 6 and Bangkok on July 4.

A first arena tour in Japan, with stops in Tokyo and Osaka, is also on the calendar, as is an appearance at Rock in Rio in Brazil this September.

Tomoya closed with a message aimed at the fans.

"With this comeback coming after six months, we know our fans have been waiting for us," he said. "Starting with today's showcase, we'll do our best as we begin our promotions."

Members of K-pop boy band NEXZ perform "HYPEMAN" from the latest "Mmchk" album at Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Seoul's Yongsan District, Monday. Yonhap