BOYNEXTDOOR is a six-member K-pop boy group under KOZ Entertainment, growing in popularity since their debut in 2023. The group is highly regarded for its authenticity and participation in songwriting, which earned them a devoted fanbase nicknamed “Onedoor.” Their popularity is increasingly growing. With the release of their new mini-album 19.99 in September of 2024, BOYNEXTDOOR is ready to take on new challenges as they transition into adulthood.
The title 19.99 represents the members’ age and indicates change. For Woonhak, a 17-year-old member and maknae, it is an album about the emotions and experiences felt during this important phase in life, something that feels personal and candid for all members on the cusp of their twenties.
Members include Jaehyun, Sungho, Taesan, Riwoo, Leehan, and Woonhak; they pride themselves on their creative input, as Jaehyun, Taesan, and Woonhak participated immensely in the writing and production of their tracks—a rare feature of freshly debuted K-pop idols. “We could really speak from our hearts from the very beginning,” reflected Jaehyun as the musical journey molded the identity of the group. Such authenticity proved to be one of the major reasons for their success.
First off, their mentor is the famous K-pop artist Zico, the leader of the K-pop idol group Block B. From time to time, Zico is influential in being an utmost mentor to BOYNEXTDOOR. Zico’s hands-on approach helps in honing the skills of its members as artists. “He knows what we’ve been through and gives us constructive feedback,” shared Sungho. For Jaehyun, Zico’s advice means a lot; through that, he grew as the group’s leader.
One of the most memorable BOYNEXTDOOR moments was when they went live at KCON LA this July 2024. For the first time on American soil, the show was electrifying, especially for Woonhak, who still remembers how excited the crowd was. The connection with international fans has given rise to speculation about a future world tour—a dream which BOYNEXTDOOR hopes to make true when the time is right.
BOYNEXTDOOR’s viral moments aren’t limited to the stage: Jaehyun’s M Countdown cover of Taeyang’s “I Need a Girl” blew up on TikTok with over 5.9 million views and launched a dance challenge. “I was really happy to find out,” said Jaehyun, teasing more in store for the future.
While the quintet is focused on the present album, they do not forget about a plan for the future. Sungho mentioned an international tour: “There are definite things and stages that you can show only when you’re on tours.”
BOYNEXTDOOR is positioning themselves during this transition in life and career, combining together to take a firm footing within the K-pop scene. Authenticity, coexistence with their fans, and creative expression make them different, more than an evolving group. One thing is certain: BOYNEXTDOOR knows who they are and where they want to go as their journey goes on.
19.99 is now available on all streaming platforms and any further work by this brilliant group is well awaited.
