TVXQ recently shared their experience of performing with SM Entertainment's junior group, RIIZE.

During a press conference held on December 26th at Conrad Seoul's Grand Ballroom in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their 9th regular album ‘20&2’, Yunho of TVXQ reflected on their performance at the ‘MAMA’ awards. “It’s been a while since we performed on the ‘MAMA’ stage, and performing ‘Rising Sun’ with RIIZE was quite enlightening. I learned about the exceptional physical abilities of our young juniors and also realized how seriously we still take our stage performances,” he confessed.

Celebrating their 20th debut anniversary, TVXQ had showcased a collaboration on ‘Rising Sun’ with RIIZE, an SM rookie boy group that debuted this September, at the ‘2023 MAMA AWARDS’ held at Tokyo Dome last month.

Yunho continued, “I gave a few lessons to the RIIZE members when they were trainees. Weren’t those little kids adorable? Our song is ‘Rising Sun,’ and the group’s name RIIZE seems to carry a similar meaning. The collaboration was meaningful and well-coordinated.” He expressed his gratitude, noting, “They prepared diligently. I saw them blend classical elements with their style. I learned a lot from them. They mixed trendy and classic elements well. I’m thankful they enhanced our performance.”

Praising RIIZE's stamina and energy, Yunho added, “They had impressive jumping abilities and different energy. Their stamina was really good. I hope they continue to manage their fitness well and keep delivering great performances.” Changmin joked, “Those kids seemed like they never ran out of breath. It was as if they had gills behind their necks.”

TVXQ, who debuted on December 26, 2003, marks their 20th anniversary today with the release of their 9th regular album ‘20&2’. This album, their first in about five years since December 2018’s special album ‘New Chapter #2: The Truth of Love’, includes ten tracks of various genres, including the title track ‘Rebel’.