The group RIIZE and the soon-to-debut rookie group TWS are drawing attention with their 'universe expansion' through media that appeals broadly to not only MZ generation but also to the middle-aged, using web novels and comics. 

RIIZE has officially announced the production of Season 2 of their web novel ‘RISE&REALIZE,’ featuring themselves as the main characters, following its popularity. TWS, on the other hand, collaborated with K-comic master artist Cheon Kye-young, leading to a unique version of their debut album.

RIIZE released Season 2 of their web novel 'RISE&REALIZE' on KakaoPage on the 13th, following its sequel that was released in August last year to coincide with their official debut. With all members appearing as protagonists, the novel is based on the concept of 'idol growth story' and is rooted in 'faction' – a blend of fiction and non-fiction.

With its basis in reality but allowing for various storytelling interventions, this genre of novels has enabled RIIZE to build a 'unique universe' distinct from other idols. The popularity of the web novel, extending to Season 2 within just six months of debut, is likely to influence other artists who are eager to build their universes, accelerating the combination of idols and web novels even further.

TWS, counting down to their debut, successfully added an 'illustrated version' to their first album and managed to bring in K-comic master artist Cheon Kye-young. The special edition of their debut album 'Sparkling Blue,' named Weverse Ver., features original artwork from one of Cheon's representative works, 'Unplugged Boy,' as the cover. This version will be sold through the global life platform Weverse.

This collaboration with K-pop idols by Cheon Kye-young, widely known for the comic 'Audition,' comes 25 years after the group H.O.T. In 1998, Cheon gained significant attention for her character design in the music video for H.O.T.'s regular album track 'Our Promise.'