Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to receive insights and game coverage for your favorite teams. The rising K-pop band xikers, hailing from South Korea, is aiming to follow in the footsteps of BTS and Ateez by embarking on their first world tour in the United States. Signed under KQ Entertainment, known for their successful K-pop acts Ateez and Maddox, this 10-member group made their debut in March 2023. Within just eight months, they have achieved record-breaking sales with two mini-albums and their music video “TRICKY HOUSE” has garnered over 29 million views. Now, xikers is gearing up for a six-city world tour.
amNewYork Metro had the opportunity to meet xikers at the Sony Music Office in the Flatiron District, where the group expressed their excitement about meeting their fans, lovingly referred to as “roadies.” They shared their journey to becoming rising stars, emphasizing their gratitude towards their fans and their dedication to creating a positive atmosphere through their music. The members of xikers, including Minjae, Junmin, Sumin, Jinsik, Hyunwoo, Junghoon, Seeun, Yujun, Hunter, and Yechan, conveyed their enthusiasm for their first world tour, particularly inspired by Ateez’s performances. They expressed their eagerness to perform in front of their roadies and meet them in person.
Becoming xikers was no easy feat. The members underwent training in Los Angeles to become KQ Entertainment’s first boy band to debut in five years, following in the footsteps of Ateez. However, xikers successfully overcame language barriers and garnered a dedicated following, selling over 100K albums in the first week of their debut EP. The members credit their hard work and talent for their success, and they strive to show their roadies the best of themselves through their live performances.
The band’s name, xikers, holds a special meaning for the group. Minjae explained that the “x” symbolizes unknown variables in mathematics, representing the infinite possibilities they see for their future as artists. Additionally, the term “hikers” represents each member’s journey through time and space. Their music has resonated with fans, providing comfort and relatability as they navigate the challenges of young adulthood. xikers’ music has also transcended language barriers, serving as a bridge between Korean culture and the world.
During their six-city tour, which includes stops in Chicago, Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, xikers will showcase sidetracks that they were unable to perform before. They also promise a special segment of the show featuring a new side of Hunter and Junmin. The band’s comeback season will be a memorable experience for their fans, and they aspire to create a connection and synergy between themselves and their roadies during their live performances.
Before their concert, xikers had the chance to explore New York City, even hosting their own showtime dance in Times Square. The members, such as Seeun and Sumin, expressed their excitement about visiting iconic NYC landmarks like Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building. They also had specific food cravings, including bagels, pizza, Shake Shack, Five Guys, and cheesecake.
Following their time in NYC, xikers performed at the Patio Theater in Chicago. Their senior band, Ateez, is set to perform at the KBS Immortals Concert at New Jersey’s Prudential Center on October 26.
