Often referred to as "Global Performance Idols" by Korean media and dubbed "Next Generation Leaders" by theKorean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2020, Ateez have sold over seven million physical albums worldwide. Their accolades include Worldwide Fans' Choice at the2019,2020, and2023Mnet Asian Music Awards andbonsang awards (main prize) at the 4thFact Music Awards, at the 30th and 31stSeoul Music Awards. They also won the Grand Honor's Choice award (daesang) at the 2024Korea Grand Music Awards.[9] The group has also served as official global ambassadors for Korean culture and tourism.[10][11] In 2024, Ateez became the first K-pop boy group to perform atCoachella and also the first K-pop group to headline theMawazine music festival in Morocco.[12][13]
Their primary producer is their labelmateEden, the leader of Eden-ary.[14]
Plans for a new KQ Entertainment boy band began after a staff member discovered a letter and samplemixtape from Kim Hongjoong, who would eventually become Ateez's leader, expressing interest in becoming atrainee at the company.[15]Hongjoong became the company's first official trainee and would remain the only one until Yunho joined six months later.[16][17] Over the next year, members Mingi,San, Seonghwa, Yeosang,Jongho, and Wooyoung joined KQ Entertainment as trainees. Many had previous training experience at other companies: Mingi atMaroo Entertainment, Jongho atTOP Media, and Yeosang and Wooyoung atBig Hit Entertainment.[18] They were known as "KQ Fellaz" prior to debuting.[19]
In late 2017, Hongjoong, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho competed on the survival reality showMix Nine, placing 42nd, 63rd, 72nd, and 43rd out of all male contestants, respectively.[20][21][22] On May 18, 2018, KQ Entertainment released theYouTube video "KQ Fellaz Performance Video I", which featured all eight Ateez members together for the first time, dancing to the song "Pick It Up" by rapperFamous Dex. Shortly after, the group premiered their pre-debut web series,KQ Fellaz American Training, showcasing the eight members inLos Angeles, California, training atThe Millennium Dance Complex.[23] During this period, a ninth trainee, Lee Jun-young, was promoted as a member of KQ Fellaz but ultimately not added to the final line-up.[24] For the finale of the web series, KQ Fellaz released the music video of "From", a song composed and produced by Hongjoong.[25][26]
Ateez during "Pirate King" promotions in November 2018
KQ Entertainment announced a debut reality show with a set of three teasers. The second teaser, released on July 3, 2018, revealed the official name for the group: Ateez. The name, short for "A TEEnager Z", symbolises the group's goal to represent everything about teenagers, from A to Z.[27] The show,Code Name Is Ateez, premiered onMnet on July 20.[28]
On October 24, 2018, Ateez released their debut EP,Treasure EP.1: All to Zero, alongside music videos for the two lead singles "Pirate King" (Korean: 해적왕;RR: Haejeogwang) and "Treasure". Their debut showcase was held on the same day.[29][30] The album peaked at number seven on the weeklyGaon Albums Chart, selling 23,644 copies in 2018.[31]
2019: Breakthrough, first tour, and first studio album
On January 3, 2019, Ateez announced their first comeback EP,Treasure EP.2: Zero to One, with a teaser photo on their social media accounts.[32] The EP was released on January 15, alongside a music video for the lead single "Say My Name".[26] A music video for the track "Hala Hala (Hearts Awakened, Live Alive)" from the EP was released on February 7.[33]
Ateez released their third EP,Treasure EP.3: One to All, on June 10.[41] The lead single, "Wave", was selected via fan vote, winning in the competition over "Illusion".[42] Music videos for both songs were released on the same day. On June 20, Ateez won their first music program award onM Countdown for "Wave", winning a second time onThe Show five days later.[43][44] On July 8, music video for the track "Aurora" was released. Ateez performed at KCON events inNew York City andLos Angeles in July and August, respectively, and received the Soribada Award for Best Performance on August 20.[45][46][47]
Ateez at theTreasure EP.Fin: All to Action showcase in 2019
On September 18, Ateez announced their third comeback withTreasure EP.Fin: All to Action, their first studio album.[48] It was released on October 8 with a music video for lead single "Wonderland".[49][50] The album sold 165,479 physical copies in South Korea in 2019 and became the first Ateez album to reach number one on the weeklyGaon Albums Chart.[51][52] On November 3, Ateez won the Best Korean Act award at the2019 MTV Europe Music Awards.[53]
On November 10, they released their first Japanese-language music video for the song "Utopia", originally a track onTreasure EP.3.[54] On December 4, their debut Japanese albumTreasure EP. Extra: Shift the Map was released, and they won the Worldwide Fans' Choice Award at theMnet Asian Music Awards inNagoya, Japan on the same day.[55][56]
2020: Conclusion ofTreasure series and start ofFever series
On January 6, 2020, Ateez released their fourth EP,Treasure Epilogue: Action to Answer, as the conclusion to theirTreasure series, alongside a music video for lead single "Answer".[57][58] The EP sold 179,796 physical copies in South Korea in 2020.[59] On February 12, Ateez released their first Japanese EPTreasure EP.Map to Answer, with the Japanese version of "Answer" as the lead single.[60]
The group's second world tour, The Fellowship: Map the Treasure, was scheduled to begin in Seoul in February before reaching seven European cities in March and two Japanese cities and five American cities in April. The Seoul tour dates were held as planned on February 8 and 9.[61] However, due to concerns over theCOVID-19 pandemic, the remaining tour dates were indefinitely postponed.[62][63][64] Several tour dates had already been sold out; the shows inAmsterdam,Madrid, andMoscow were reportedly since January. All dates in United States were also sold out, including some arenas with capacities of over 18,000 people.[65]
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Ateez hosted a free, virtual concert called "Crescent Party" on theV Live app, with over 1.4 million viewers tuning into the live event on May 30.[66] On June 26, they performed both the opening and closing stages at KCON:TACT 2020 and held their first virtual meet-and-greet with fans.[67]
Ateez during "Thanxx" promotions in 2020
On July 4, Ateez released a promotional schedule for their fifth EP,Zero: Fever Part.1, their first release following the conclusion of theTreasure series.[68] The lead single, "Inception", was voted by fans over the track "Thanxx".[69] The EP was released on July 29, and Ateez received their third and fourth music program awards for "Inception" on August 4 and 5, onThe Show andShow Champion.[70][71] Music video of the other single, "Thanxx", was released on August 24.Zero: Fever Part. 1 sold 379,052 physical copies in South Korea in 2020, Ateez's first album to be certified platinum by theKorea Music Content Association, and made Ateez the second fourth-generation boy group to generate one million total sales as rookies.[5]
On August 29, Ateez appeared on the South Korean television programImmortal Songs: Singing the Legend.[72] They performed a cover ofTurbo's "The Black Cat Nero" and won the episode, making them the first fourth-generation group and the sixth idol group overall to win on the program.[73] On October 31, Ateez released a special Halloween music video version of "The Black Cat Nero", featuring the original artistKim Jong-kook.[74]
On November 15, it was announced that member Mingi would temporarily suspend promotional activities with the group in order to receive treatment for and recover from symptoms ofpsychological anxiety.[75]
On December 19, Ateez were the only idol group invited to theImmortal Songs year-end finale "King of Kings", where they performed their version ofSeo Taiji and Boys' "Anyhow Song".[78] According to an officialTwitter survey, Ateez were the fifth most tweeted-about musician in the United States in 2020, afterBTS,Kanye West,Beyoncé, andDrake, and the 10th most tweeted-about K-pop group in the world.[79]
On January 31, Ateez received their first Bonsang (main award) at the 30thSeoul Music Awards.[80] They returned toImmortal Songs: Singing the Legend for a third time and won the episode on February 6 by performing a rendition ofRain's "It's Raining", making them the only K-pop boy group with multiple wins on the program.[81]
On March 1, their sixth EP,Zero: Fever Part.2, was released with a music video for promoted single "Fireworks (I'm the One)" (Korean: 불놀이야;RR: Bulnoriya).[82][83] Ateez received their fifth music show win onThe Show on March 9 for the song.[84]Zero: Fever Part.2 was certified double platinum on July 8, having sold over 500,000 copies.[85][86] On March 24, Ateez released their first original Japanese studio albumInto the A to Z with "Still Here" as the lead single.[87]
In addition to their music releases, the group and individual members participated in various Korean television programs.[88] In March, Yeosang became a co-host ofSBS MTV's music programThe Show.[89] Meanwhile, Yunho, Jongho, Seonghwa, and San were cast in theKBS2 television dramaImitation, which aired from May to July.[90] The competition showKingdom: Legendary War that Ateez participated in alongside five other K-pop boy groups first aired on April 1.[91] For the final round, they released the song "멋 (The Real)" on May 28, which Mingi participated in recording but not performing.[92][93] The group finished in third place overall.[94] On May 22, Ateez returned toImmortal Songs for a fourth time, winning with their performance ofPsy's"Right Now" and consequently tying withMamamoo for most wins by an idol group on the show.[95]
On July 9, KQ Entertainment confirmed that San tested positive but was asymptomatic forCOVID-19. All members except Mingi suspended their activities to enter self-isolation until July 23, and San stayed at a treatment center until he was released on July 19.[96][97][unreliable source?] On July 19, it was announced that Mingi would be returning to group activities.[98]
On July 28, Ateez released their first Japanese single "Dreamers", which served as the fifth ending theme for the 2020 reboot anime seriesDigimon Adventure.[99] On August 4, Ateez announced an album collaboration withKim Jong-kook titledSeason Songs, with lead single "Be My Lover" (Korean: 바다 보러 갈래?;RR: Bada Boreo Gallae?), which was released on August 16.[100][101] On August 19, it was announced that Ateez collaborated with Americana cappella groupPentatonix on the single "A Little Space", set for digital release the following day.[102]
On September 13, Ateez released their seventh EP,Zero: Fever Part.3. The lead single "Deja Vu" was voted on by fans over the track "Eternal Sunshine".[103] Pre-orders for the EP surpassed 800,000 copies, more than double that of their last release.[104] It debuted at number one on theBillboardWorld Albums Chart, and the group reached a new peak on theBillboardWorld Digital Songs Chart with "Deja Vu" charting at number four. The EP debuted at number 42 on theBillboard 200, their first appearance on the chart. Ateez also topped theBillboardEmerging Artists Chart.[105] Domestically, they received their sixth music show win onMBC M'sShow Champion for "Deja Vu" on September 22.[106] The EP received double platinum certification on November 11, having surpassed the 500,000 copies sales mark.[107][86]
On October 2, Ateez won the Artist of the Year award onThe Fact Music Awards.[108] On October 31, They performed at the SBS Super Concert in Daegu, where Yunho was appointed as one of the hosts.[109] On November 14, it was announced on their virtual concert "Fever: eXendtion edition" that the group's third world tour, The Fellowship: Beginning of the End, would be held in 2022. The world tour was scheduled to begin with three dates in Seoul in early January and proceed to five cities in the US in the latter part of the month before concluding on March 1 after shows in six European cities.[110]
On December 10, Ateez released their eighth EP,Zero: Fever Epilogue, featuring the lead singles "Turbulence" (Korean: 야간비행;RR: Yaganbihaeng) and "The Real (Heung version)" (Korean: 멋 (흥 ver.);RR: Meot (Heung ver.)).[111] The album included tracks previously introduced as performances onKingdom, and was certified platinum.[86] On December 25, Ateez made a return toImmortal Songs year-end finale "King of Kings" with a mashup ofBlock B's "Nillili Mambo",Big Bang's "Fantastic Baby", and their own song "The Real (Heung version)".[112]
2022: Two world tours,Beyond: Zero,The World EP.1: Movement,The World EP.Paradigm andSpin Off: From the Witness
Ateez at The Fellowship: Beginning of the End world tour in 2022
Ateez held their first offline concerts in two years in Seoul from January 7 to 9. The Fellowship: Beginning of the End world tour continued with six sold-out shows inChicago,Atlanta,Newark,Dallas andLos Angeles in the United States in January.[113] On January 18, it was announced that Yeosang would continue his role as co-host ofThe Show for a second year.[114] On January 23, Ateez won the main award on the 31stSeoul Music Awards.[115]
On January 31, they released thepromotional single "Don't Stop" throughUniverse Music for the platform Universe.[116] On February 3, it was announced that Ateez would appear on Global Spin Live at theGrammy Museum on February 8.[117] They performed and participated in an interview, as well as an audience question-and-answer segment on the live event.
The European leg of the Fellowship: Beginning of The End world tour was rescheduled to late April and May; eight shows inMadrid,London,Paris,Berlin andAmsterdam were held, while theWarsaw show was cancelled. Three additional shows inYokohama, Japan in mid-July were also announced.[118]
On May 25, Ateez released their second Japanese EP,Beyond: Zero, with lead single "Rocky (Boxers Ver.)".[119] The EP charted at number two on theOricon weekly album chart,Line Music weekly album chart andBillboard Japan Top Album Sales chart.[120]
On June 30, they performed at the Jeddah K-pop Festival in Saudi Arabia.[121] On July 3, they closed the second day of UNI-KON 2022 in Seoul.[122]
On July 29, Ateez released their ninth Korean EPThe World EP.1: Movement, featuring the lead single "Guerrilla".[123] Pre-orders exceeded 1.1 million copies, making it their first million-selling EP.[6] Album sales in the first week totalled to over 930,000 physical copies, and the EP topped South Korea'sCircle Album Chart for two consecutive weeks.[124] The album charted at number three onBillboard 200 in the United States, Ateez's first top 10 on the main chart. The group wrapped up their album promotions with six music program awards for "Guerrilla", winning first places onThe Show,Show Champion andMusic Bank.[125]
On August 22, Ateez performed at KCON 2022 LA and were selected to perform the LA version of KCON 2022's signature song "Poppia".[126] On September 8, it was reported that Hongjoong and Yunho had been chosen as DJs forMBC Radio'sIdol Radio Season 3 and that the show would incorporate Ateez's colours by adopting a "space pirate" concept.[127] On September 9, Ateez released an original soundtrack for the web dramaMimicus, titled "Let's Get Together".[128]
Ateez performed in several joint concerts across Asia during September and October, including Kpop Land 2022 inJakarta, K-pop Masterz Ep.2 inManila andBangkok, KCON 2022 Saudi Arabia inRiyadh, PowerfulDaegu K-pop Concert Restart, and KCON 2022 Japan inTokyo.[129][130][131][132][133][134] On October 8, Ateez received the Artist of the Year Bonsang, as well as the Best Performer award atThe Fact Music Awards.[135]
Ateez opened their second world tour of the year, The Fellowship: Break The Wall, with two sold-out concerts in Seoul on October 29 and 30.[136][137] They embarked on the North American leg, comprising eleven shows inOakland,Anaheim,Phoenix,Dallas,Chicago,Atlanta,Newark andToronto. They closed the 2022 part of the tour with two shows inChiba, Japan.[136][138] KQ Fellaz 2, a pre-debut boy group from the same label as Ateez, served as the opening act of all the shows except for the one in Canada.
On November 30, Ateez released their third Japanese EP,The World EP.Paradigm, featuring the lead single "Paradigm".[139] It ranked first on the weekly edition of theOricon Albums Chart, as well as on the Oricon Weekly Combined Album Chart.[140][141] The album also ranked first on theBillboard Japan Top Album Sales chart with 124,584 physical copies sold in the first week, making it Ateez's first EP to top these charts.[142]
On December 7, Ateez released the soundtrack song "Like That" for the animeLookism, an adaptation of the eponymous webtoon.[143] On December 15, it was announced that the group would release the opening theme "Limitless" for the animeDuel Masters WIN.[144]
On December 22, KQ Entertainment released a comeback trailer for Ateez's first Korean single album,Spin Off: From the Witness, which was released on December 30, led by the single "Halazia".[145][146] The single album entered the top 10 ofBillboard 200 at number seven and theBillboard's Top Album Sales at number two, making it their third and second time on the two charts, respectively.[147][148] "Halazia" brought Ateez their 13th music show trophy, winning first place onMusic Bank on January 6.[149]
2023: Continuation of the Break the Wall world tour,Limitless,The World EP.2: Outlaw andThe World EP.Fin: Will
After finishing their domestic promotions forSpin Off: From the Witness, Ateez promoted their EPThe World EP. Paradigm in Japan from January 29 to February 3.[150] On February 10, the group embarked on the European leg of the Fellowship: Break The Wall world tour inAmsterdam, followed by eight shows inBerlin,Brussels,London,Madrid,Copenhagen andParis.[151] On March 8, Yeosang was announced to continue as one of the hosts ofThe Show for a third consecutive year.[152] On March 19, Ateez performed at KCON Thailand at theIMPACT Arena.[153]
On March 22, the group releasedLimitless, their second Japanese single album, including the opening song of the same name they recorded for the animeDuel Masters WIN.[154]
Between April and May, Ateez performed in multiple events such as the 2023 Lovesome Festival in Seoul,[155] the K-POP Super Live at Seoul Festa 2023,[156] the Dance Day Live 2023 in Tokyo,[157] and KCON Japan 2023 in Chiba.[158] They also carried out six encore concerts out of the Fellowship: Break The Wall tour inSeoul,Tokyo andChiba.[159][160]
On June 17, Ateez appeared onImmortal Songs: Singing the Legend for the sixth time. They performed their rendition of the song "Highway in the Gale", originally sung by Yoo Jung Seok and won their fourth trophy making them the K-Pop idol group with the most wins on the show.[165]
On July 8, Ateez opened their Asian leg of The Fellowship: Break The Wall world tour inTaipei, followed by concerts inHong Kong andBangkok. As a part of the world tour, they held a solo concert inJeddah on July 20, becoming the first fourth-generation idol group to do so. On August 23, they continued on with the Latin American leg of the world tour with shows inMexico City,São Paulo,Santiago andBogotá. They played their first ever stadium concert at theAllianz Parque in São Paulo. On September 9, they resumed their Asian leg of the tour with a concert held in Singapore. They closed the tour on the 16th with a show inManila.[166][167][168]
Ateez at the Towards the Light: Will to Power world tour in 2024
Ateez started the year by opening their world tour Towards the Light: Will to Power inSeoul, South Korea. The sold-out concerts were held on January 27 and 28 at theJamsil Indoor Stadium.[175] The tour continued as they performed at theSaitama Super Arena inSaitama, Japan on February 3 and 4 which were sold-out on both days.[176]
On March 5, it was announced that Yeosang would be stepping down as co-host forSBS MTV'sThe Show after three years.[181] On March 11, Hongjoong was featured inChung Ha's single "Eenie Meenie".[182] On March 28, it was reported that Ateez will be a part of the first K-pop exhibition hosted by theGrammy Museum from April 10 to June 10.[183] On March 31, Ateez performed atKCONHong Kong 2024.[184]
On April 12 and 19, Ateez became the first K-pop boy group to grace the stage atCoachella, one of the biggest music festivals in the world.[12] On April 20, Ateez were invited to throw the first pitch for theLA Dodgers in aMLB game against theMets.[185] On April 26 and 28, Ateez performed atCartier 'Crystallization of Time' exhibition and 'High Jewelry Gala Dinner' in Seoul.[186][unreliable source?]
On June 2, Ateez performed at the K-Wave Concert Inkigayo.[195] On June 10, they made their US television debut onThe Kelly Clarkson Show.[196] On June 23, Ateez became the first South Korean musical act to perform and headline theMawazine festival, the second largest music festival in the world. The group took the OLM Souissi stage as one of the two artists scheduled to play that day and attracted huge crowds of spectators.[13][197] On June 28 and 29, they performed at the BEAT AX Vol.4 music festival held at theMakuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan[198] and on June 30, they performed at Show! Music Core in Japan.[199]
On August 1, Yunho appeared in the music video for the song "Kung Kung Dda" by Seo Eve.[203] On August 7,Mirani released the single "Hit Me Up" featuring Mingi.[204] On August 17 and 18, Ateez performed at theSummer Sonic festival held in Osaka and Chiba.[205] They held a second 'ATINY's Voyage: From A to Z' fanmeeting in Tokyo on August 21 and 22.[206]
On September 4, Ateez collaborated with the Japanese boy group Be:First for the second time for the digital single "Royal".[207]
On October 1, Ateez released their fourth Japanese single "Birthday".[208] It debuted No. 3 on theBillboard Japan Top Singles Sales Chart and No. 4 on theBillboard Japan Hot 100 Chart.[209][210]
On March 7, Seonghwa made his runway debut duringParis Fashion Week forIsabel Marant's Fall/Winter 2025 collection, after previously modeling for their Spring 2025 campaign alongsideKate Moss.[216] On March 18, Ateez woniHeartRadio's K-Pop Artist of the Year award.[217] On March 31, Ateez announced their fifth world tour, In Your Fantasy, covering South Korea, North America, and Japan.[218] They held a third 'ATINY's Voyage: From A to Z' fanmeeting in Kobe on March 28 and 29.[219]
On May 14, Ateez released the concert film,Towards the Light: Will to Power, showcasing their January 2024 performance at the Jamsil Arena in Seoul. The film was screened across Asia, North America, Europe, and other countries, and presented by CJ 4DPLEX and Trafalgar Releasing viaScreenX,4DX,Ultra 4DX, and traditional 2D formats.[221]
On June 10,Gallant released "Underpressure!" featuring Wooyoung, after performing the song together on June 1 prior to its release for theSeoul Jazz Festival.[222] On June 13, Ateez released their twelfth EPGolden Hour: Part.3, with the lead single "Lemon Drop". It debuted at No. 2 on theBillboard 200.[223] "Lemon Drop" debuted at No. 69 on theBillboard Hot 100, marking Ateez's first entry on the chart and making them the third K-pop boy group to chart on theBillboard Hot 100.[224]
On July 10, it was announced that all eight members of the group had decided to renew their contracts with KQ Entertainment for the next 7 years.[225] They opened the North American leg of In Your Fantasy world tour with shows in Atlanta, New York, Baltimore, Nashville, Orlando, Chicago, Tacoma, San Jose, Los Angeles, Glendale, Arlington and Mexico City.[226]
From September 13 to October 23, they held concerts in Saitama, Nagoya and Kobe.[227] On September 17, Ateez released their second Japanese full length albumAshes to Light.[228]
According toRolling Stone India, Ateez blendship-hop,trap,dubstep, andpop to craft their signature sound. From Middle Eastern flavours, traces ofindie pop,tropical house,synthwave, and trap-infusedslow jams they have created a strong singular identity without sacrificing creativity and variety. Their B-side tracks explore and present several sides of the group. The group makes sure to be deeply involved in thesongwriting,production, andconceptualisation of each album. Most of their lyrics are motivational and revolve around teamwork, success, togetherness, and confidence. Their lead singles tend to be anthemic and incite a sense of euphoria in their audiences.[229]
According toForbes, Ateez's multifaceted artistry is reflected in their style and youth-focused messaging. Their lyrics delve into the growth and decision-making process that humans experience duringadolescence.[230]Earmilk describes the group's discography as a powerful combination of hip-hop andelectronic trap. And that it is dark-tinged and of boldmusicality.[231]USA Today describes the group's music as having a "varied nature", which highlights their versatility and adaptability.[232]
ATEEZ has always taken on new challenges in terms of sounds and genres throughout the various albums we've released until now. Honestly, I think we've enjoyed challenging ourselves to try new things because there's no need to confine ourselves to a specific genre if the music can highlight and bring together the strengths of the individual members. While we've had songs where we focused on a more cinematic and dramatic style to follow a storyline, we also understand the joy of the entertainment that can be found in the music itself. This track brings this to the forefront, even bolder in sound and creative in the blending of each member's unique abilities. I'm excited for us to be able to continue to showcase ATEEZ's distinct identity within a framework we create for ourselves through various musical challenges and performances.
Rolling Stone India observed that Ateez created intrigue with their polished dance moves and compelling facial expressions. Unlike most groups that rely on a specific 'concept' formula for their debut, Ateez focuses on their execution on stage. They exude confidence, have phenomenal stage presence, has developed a hard-hitting signature sound, and fit together seamlessly as a team. Their work meets the K-pop industry's standards of cinematic production and penchant for hidden narratives, but the symbolism lies in their movements.They move like clockwork, intricate details woven in seamlessly in every piece of choreography and their facial expressions are striking.[229]
Consequence described that the group tends to explore various genres but excels in explosive, theatrical performances. Their group concept incorporates pirate imagery. The "Ateez" style of music and dancing stands out from that of many of their peers in the industry. While precise choreography has typically been the industry standard, the members of the group aren't afraid to let their individual strengths shine onstage.[234]
Billboard noted that the group was known for honing its intense choreography andshowmanship during performances.[235] According toUSA Today, Ateez are known for their powerful performances and concepts. They bring high energy with a flair of cool.[232]
TheClash Music report on Ateez' Towards the Light: Will to Power world tour in Washington D.C talks about the storyline that is woven into each project and performance which adds to theworldbuilding experience for the audience. The report notes that performing is their way of "rebelling" against the real-life industry that had little faith in them, and the fictitious oppressive government in their storyline.Anarchy andmutiny appeared to be the dominant themes in their narrative.[236]1883 Magazine elaborates on the comprehensive concept where the group members exist as pirates in search of their treasure. They've created an expansive universe that explores themes of fixation, discovery, being outcasts, ambiguousmorality, and obsession, all of which transcend language barriers to resonate with people worldwide.[233]
On May 8, 2020, theKorean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism named Ateez as its 2020 ambassador to help promote Korean culture and tourism abroad.[237] The group participated in the "Overcome Together" relay challenge to encourage safer practices to avoid COVID-19 and served as ambassador of the Talk Talk Korea Contest in 2020.[238][239][240]
On January 28, 2021, Ateez filmed a commercial for theLG webOS TV.[241] On July 1, it was announced that members Hongjoong and Yunho would participate in the 2021Pepsi Taste of Korea Campaign,[242] in collaboration with K-pop artistsRain,Brave Girls andMonsta X for the song "Summer Taste", which was released on July 14.[243]
On February 3, 2022, Ateez collaborated with online fashion storePoshmark.[244] On July 14, Ateez was announced as advertising model for Koreancosmetics brand Mernel.[245]
On January 5, 2024, Ateez was selected by the cosmetics brand Nacific as its brand model.[246] On March 21, Ateez were revealed as the exclusive model for Cafe BomBom.[247] On March 22, Ateez was selected as an advertising model for the Japanese pharmaceutical brandRohto UV.[248] On April 23, Ateez collaborated withABC-Mart forAdidas' "CLIMACOOL" series campaign.[249]
On July 3, 2025, Ateez were selected as the new model for the Korean mud skincare brand BRMUD.[250] On September 5, American fashion brandAvirex and Ateez announced the release of a collaborative capsule collection to commemorate the brand's 50th anniversary.[251] On November 12, Ateez were selected as the promotional model forShilla Duty Free.[252]
On August 31, 2020, it was announced that Ateez members Mingi and Yeosang would participate in Star Bookstore, a relay donation campaign in which celebrities read books to children in disadvantaged situations.[253] The audiobooks that each member recorded surpassed 10,000 views within one day of release, leading to a donation of₩2 million from Happy Bean on behalf of the two members towards various welfare organisations in Korea.[254] On September 14, Ateez were announced as ambassadors for Polished Man, an initiative raising funds for trauma prevention and recovery programs for young survivors of violence.[255] Ateez member Hongjoong had raised awareness for the campaign since Ateez's debut by painting one of his nails,[256] leading fans to set up fundraising pages on Polished Man's website to raise hundreds of dollars in 2019 and early 2020 before Ateez officially partnered with the campaign.[257] As of July 2021, funds raised through the partnership with Polished Man have exceeded$30,000.[258]
On May 15, 2021, Ateez appeared on Identity 2021, a live stream fundraiser hosted byAmazon Music in honour ofAsian Pacific American Heritage Month.[259] The campaign raised over $20,000 towards Pacific Bridge Arts Musical Scholarships and the Gold House AAPI Community Fund.[260]
In November 2022, in the wake of theSeoul Halloween crowd crush, Ateez donated ₩100 million to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, using profits from their concerts to support those affected by the accident.[261]
On March 28, 2025, it was announced that Ateez had donated ₩100 million to the Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association to help with the recovery of wildfire stricken areas by providing emergency livelihood support, relief supplies, and operating temporary shelters for residents in Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam.[262]
^Co-sponsored by Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism,Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy,Korea Communications Commission, and Korea Creative Content Agency, it awards cultural icons and businesses that promote the sustainability of the Korean Wave and boost the industry's competitiveness.[376]
^abLee, Min-ji (September 10, 2020).여전히 뜨거운 싹쓰리, 8월 가온차트 2관왕.Newsen (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 9, 2020. RetrievedMarch 26, 2021.
^abKim, Ji-hye (April 20, 2024).에이티즈, 美 코첼라 공연 성료..퍼포먼스 최강자 우뚝 [ATEEZ successfully completed their performance at Coachella in the U.S., standing tall as the best in performance].Herald Pop (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 21, 2024. RetrievedApril 21, 2024.
^abGeum, Bit-na (June 24, 2024).에이티즈(ATEEZ), 세계적 음악 페스티벌 '마와진' 성료...거침없는 항해로 좌중 압도 [ATEEZ successfully completes the world-class music festival 'Mawajin'... overwhelming the audience with its unstoppable voyage].MK Sports (in Korean).Archived from the original on June 24, 2024. RetrievedJune 28, 2024.
^Kim, Na-young (June 25, 2019).에이티즈 '더쇼' 1위, SF9-우주소녀 이겼다.MK Sports (in Korean).Archived from the original on September 18, 2021. RetrievedApril 25, 2021.
^Park, Jung-sun (August 4, 2020).에이티즈, '인셉션' 컴백과 동시에 '더 쇼' 1위.Daily Sports (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 25, 2021. RetrievedApril 25, 2021.
^Yoo, Byung-chul (December 22, 2022).에이티즈, 30일 컴백 라이브 방송 진행...영화 같은 프롤로그 포스터 공개 [Ateez, comeback live broadcast on the 30th... Movie-like prologue poster released] (in Korean). Korea Economy TV.Archived from the original on December 22, 2022. RetrievedDecember 22, 2022 – viaNaver.
^Kim, Hyun-rok (June 18, 2023).에이티즈, '불후의 명곡' 4번째 우승 "아이돌 역대 최다" [ATEEZ wins 'Immortal Song' for the 4th time, "the most in idol history"].Naver News (in Korean).Archived from the original on March 20, 2024. RetrievedMarch 20, 2024.
^Kim, Jihye (May 5, 2023).에이티즈, 데뷔 첫 아시아 투어 개최..역대급 스케일 [ATEEZ holds its first Asian tour since debut.. on a record-breaking scale].Naver News (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 7, 2023. RetrievedMarch 21, 2024.
^Kim, Nayoung (June 6, 2023).에이티즈, 사우디아라비아서 단독 콘서트 개최...4세대 아이돌 중 최초 [ATEEZ holds a solo concert in Saudi Arabia... The first among 4th generation idols].Naver News (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 7, 2023. RetrievedMarch 21, 2024.
^Lee, Jaehoon (June 3, 2023).에이티즈, 8월 첫 남미 투어...네 개 국가 돈다 [ATEEZ's first South American tour in August... travels to four countries].Naver News (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 7, 2023. RetrievedMarch 21, 2024.
^Seon, Mi-Kyung (December 23, 2023).에이티즈, 트리플 크라운 달성하며 '미친 폼' 증명 [ATEEZ achieves triple crown, proving 'crazy form'].Osen (in Korean).Archived from the original on December 31, 2023. RetrievedDecember 31, 2023 – viaNaver.
^Kim, Ji-hye (January 30, 2024).더보이즈 선우, '아이돌라디오 시즌4' 이끈다..DJ 발탁[공식] [The Boyz's Sunwoo leads 'Idol Radio Season 4'.. selected as DJ [Official]].Herald Pop (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 30, 2024. RetrievedMarch 8, 2024 – viaNaver.
^Ji, Min-Kyung (January 27, 2024).에이티즈, 오늘(27일) 2024 월드투어 화려한 개막..관전포인트 4 [ATEEZ, spectacular opening of 2024 World Tour today (27th).. Points to watch 4].Osen (in Korean).Archived from the original on February 23, 2024. RetrievedFebruary 23, 2024 – viaNaver.
^Ahn, Yun-Ji (February 3, 2024).에이티즈, 2024 월드투어 日 공연 개막..서울 열기 잇는다 [ATEEZ opens 2024 World Tour in Japan..Continuing the heat in Seoul].Star News Korea (in Korean). RetrievedFebruary 23, 2024 – viaNaver.
^Lee, Jaehoon (February 3, 2024).에이티즈, 日 싱글 3집 오리콘 일간 2위 출발...전작 판매량 8배↑ [ATEEZ's 3rd Japanese single starts at 2nd place on Oricon daily... Sales of previous work increased 8 times].Newsis (in Korean).Archived from the original on March 8, 2024. RetrievedMarch 8, 2024 – viaNaver.
^"【ビルボード】SKE48『愛のホログラム』39.9万枚でシングル・セールス首位" [[Billboard] SKE48's "Hologram of Love" tops single sales with 399,000 copies].Billboard Japan (in Japanese). March 4, 2024.Archived from the original on March 6, 2024. RetrievedMarch 8, 2024.
^Kang, Bo-ra (March 5, 2024).에이티즈 여상·템페스트 형섭, '더쇼' MC 하차...굿바이 메시지 공개 [ATEEZ's Yeosang and Tempest's Hyeongseop leave 'The Show' as MCs...Goodbye message revealed].Single List (in Korean).Archived from the original on March 8, 2024. RetrievedMarch 8, 2024.
^Hyun, Jong-min (March 2, 2024).청하, 에이티즈 홍중과 협업...'EENIE MEENIE' 더 기대되는 이유 [Chungha collaborates with ATEEZ Hongjoong... Reasons to be more excited about 'EENIE MEENIE'].Sports World (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 21, 2024. RetrievedJune 27, 2024.
^Park, Jeong-hoon (February 8, 2024).'에스파'부터 '제베원'까지...KCON HONG KONG 2024, 글로벌 K-POP 스타 총출동 [From 'Aespa' to 'Jebewon'... KCON HONG KONG 2024, full attendance of global K-POP stars].Seoul Press (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 21, 2024. RetrievedApril 21, 2024.
^Ahn, Yun-ji (April 21, 2024).에이티즈, 美 메이저리그 LA 다저스 마운드 올랐다..첫 시구 [ATEEZ ascends the mound of the LA Dodgers in the U.S. Major League..First pitch].Star News (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 21, 2024. RetrievedApril 21, 2024.
^KIA, 찐팬 릴레이 승리기원 시구 [KIA, first pitch to pray for victory in the fan relay].KIA Tigers (in Korean). May 21, 2024.Archived from the original on May 25, 2024. RetrievedJune 1, 2024.
^Gil, Jun-young (May 17, 2024).롯데, 24~26일 삼성과 9번째 '클래식 시리즈' 개최 [Lotte holds the 9th 'Classic Series' with Samsung from the 24th to the 26th].Osen (in Korean).Archived from the original on May 26, 2024. RetrievedJune 1, 2024.
^Ahn, Byeong-Gil (June 8, 2024).에이티즈, 英 '오피셜 앨범 차트' 새 역사 [ATEEZ, new history on UK's 'Official Album Chart'].Sports Kyunghyang (in Korean).Archived from the original on June 9, 2024. RetrievedJune 10, 2024.
^Kang, Da-yoon (June 7, 2024).에이티즈, 美 '켈리 클락슨 쇼' 출연 [공식] [ATEEZ to appear on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show' [Official]].My Daily (in Korean).Archived from the original on June 7, 2024. RetrievedJune 21, 2024.
^Hwang, So-young (May 2, 2024).에이티즈와 싸이커스 日 뮤직 페스티벌 동시 출격 [ATEEZ and Xikers to appear simultaneously at the Japanese Music Festival].JTBC (in Korean).Archived from the original on June 28, 2024. RetrievedJune 28, 2024.
^Jeong, Eui-jun (July 14, 2022).메르넬, 글로벌 엠버서더로 에이티즈 발탁.Seoul Economic TV (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 7, 2023. RetrievedAugust 15, 2022.
^Lee, Yun-jeong (January 5, 2024).네시픽, 2024년 브랜드 새 모델로 '에이티즈(ATEEZ)' 발탁 [Nacific selects 'ATEEZ' as new brand model for 2024].Edaily (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 5, 2024. RetrievedJanuary 5, 2024 – viaNaver.
^"ATEEZ"ロートUV"新CMに登場!白衣姿でダイナミックなダンスを披露" [ATEEZ "Rohto UV" appears in new commercial! Performing a dynamic dance in a white coat].The First Times (in Japanese). March 22, 2024.Archived from the original on March 24, 2024. RetrievedMarch 24, 2024.
^"ATEEZがABC-MARTとコラボ!アディダス"CLIMACOOL"の新ビジュア ル&ムービーに登場" [ATEEZ collaborates with ABC-MART! Appearing in the new Adidas "CLIMACOOL" visual and movie].The First Times (in Japanese). April 23, 2024.Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. RetrievedMay 15, 2024.
^Baek, Ji-eun (November 5, 2022).[단독] '선행돌' 에이티즈, 이태원 참사 지원금 1억원 기부...개념행보ing [[Exclusive] 'Leading idols' Ateez donates 100 million won to support the Itaewon disaster... concept walk].Sports Chosun (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 5, 2022. RetrievedNovember 5, 2022 – viaNaver.
^Ateez(에이티즈) WANTED 공개 예정 안내.Ateez Official Site (in Korean). KQ Entertainment. March 18, 2019. Archived fromthe original on April 26, 2021. RetrievedApril 26, 2021.
^Choi, Hye-jin (February 12, 2023).에이티즈, 자체 예능 '원티즈' 컴백..한국의 '멋' 알린다 [Ateez makes a comeback with its own entertainment show 'Wanteez'] (in Korean). MT Star News.Archived from the original on February 13, 2023. RetrievedFebruary 13, 2023 – viaNaver.
^Kim, Hyun-sik (October 16, 2023).[문화대상 최우수작_콘서트]⑥에이티즈 월드투어 '더 펠로우십 : 브레이크 더 월' [[Culture Awards Best Work_Concert]⑥ ATEEZ World Tour 'The Fellowship: Break the Wall'].Edaily (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 14, 2023. RetrievedNovember 14, 2023.
^Kim, Hyo-jin (December 8, 2020).가온차트 2020, 글로벌 초이스상 1차 투표 시작...남자·여자 후보 공개 [Gaon Chart 2020, the first round of the Global Choice Award voting begins... Male and female candidates announced].Top Star News (in Korean).Archived from the original on December 29, 2020. RetrievedDecember 29, 2020.
^Won, Sena (January 13, 2020).[2021 가온차트] 방탄소년단 '넘사벽' 6관왕...아이유·블랙핑크 다관(종합) [[2021 Gaon Chart] BTS' 'Breakfast' 6 crowns... IU, Black, Pink, multifunctional (general)].The Fact (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 13, 2021. RetrievedJanuary 13, 2020.
^Kim, Soo-jung (December 24, 2019).틱톡 골든디스크어워즈 인기상 투표 나도 해볼까.News1 (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 27, 2021. RetrievedApril 27, 2021.The nominations for the Most Popular Artist are the same as the Nominees for the Main Prize (Best Album).
^Jo, Yeon-kyung (January 6, 2025).세븐틴·에스파 영예의 대상...39회 골든디스크어워즈 성료 [Seventeen and aespa Win Grand Prizes... 39th Golden Disc Awards Completed].JTBC News.Archived from the original on January 6, 2025. RetrievedJanuary 6, 2025.
^Jang, Do-min (December 5, 2024).마이원픽, 골든디스크어워즈 인기상 2개 부문 뽑는다 [My One Pick, Golden Disc Awards Popularity Award 2 categories].News1 (in Korean).Archived from the original on December 5, 2024. RetrievedDecember 5, 2024 – viaNaver.
^Kim, Na-young (December 21, 2021).BTS·세븐틴 등...2021 한터뮤직어워즈, '초동기록상' TOP10 수상자 발표 [HBTS, Seventeen, etc... 2021 Hanteo Music Awards, 'Initial Chodong Record Award' TOP10 Winners Announced].MK Sports (in Korean). RetrievedNovember 24, 2022.
^Jang, Woo-young (February 18, 2024).'한터뮤직어워즈' NCT DREAM→아이브 대상 영예..에스파는 3관왕 [종합] ['Hanteo Music Awards' NCT DREAM → IVE Grand Prize winners..Aespa wins 3 awards [Full Story]].Osen (in Korean).Archived from the original on February 18, 2024. RetrievedFebruary 18, 2024 – viaThe Chosun Ilbo.
^Jang, Seul-gi (November 30, 2023).31주년 한터뮤직어워즈 2023, '후즈팬덤상' 톱 40 후보 공개 [31st Anniversary Hanteo Music Awards 2023 Reveals Top 40 Nominees for 'WhosFandom Award'].Raon News (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 8, 2024. RetrievedJanuary 8, 2024.
^Lee, Sung-mi (December 20, 2024).'HMA 2024', 부문별 본상 투표 시작→팝업까지...다채로운 이벤트 진행 ['HMA 2024' Starts Voting for Main Prize by Sector → Up to Pop-Up...Various events are held].Biz Enter (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 2, 2025. RetrievedJanuary 2, 2025.
^Han, Hae-jin (November 27, 2024).'한터뮤직어워즈 2024', '후즈팬덤상' 투표 시작..TOP 40 아티스트 발표 ['Hanteo Music Awards 2024' and 'Who's Fandom Awards' voting begins.. Top 40 artists announced].Star News Korea (in Korean).Archived from the original on January 2, 2025. RetrievedJanuary 2, 2025.
^Lee, Jung-beom (November 3, 2020).에이티즈, 2020 'MAMA' 3개 부문 노미네이트 눈길.X Sports Korea (in Korean).Archived from the original on April 26, 2021. RetrievedApril 26, 2021.
^Jeong, Seung-min (November 29, 2023).에이티즈, '페이보릿 글로벌 퍼포머 남성 그룹'..."에이티니 사랑에 보답"(MAMA 2023) [ATEEZ, Global Favorite Male Performer Group..."Giving back our love to ATINY" (MAMA 2023)].MHN Sports (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 29, 2023. RetrievedNovember 29, 2023.
^Seoul Music Awards – 모바일 투표 현황 [Seoul Music Awards – Mobile Voting Status].Seoul Music Awards (in Korean).Archived from the original on November 8, 2023. RetrievedNovember 8, 2023.
^Park, Se-yeon (October 8, 2022).'대세' 에이티즈, '더팩트뮤직어워즈' 2관왕.The Fact (in Korean).Archived from the original on October 9, 2022. RetrievedOctober 8, 2022 – viaNaver.