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Epex (Korean이펙스; RRIpekseu; stylized in all caps) is a South Korean boy band formed and managed by C9 Entertainment. The group consists of eight members: Wish, Keum, Mu, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff. They debuted on June 8, 2021, with their first extended play (EP) Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety.

Key Information

Name

[edit]

The group's name, Epex, which stands for "Eight Apex". The meaning of the group is said to be when the gathering of eight youths reaches eight different apexes.[1]

History

[edit]

Pre-debut activities

[edit]

Keum is a former contestant of Mnet's Produce X 101. As a 2-year old trainee representing C9 Entertainment, he was eliminated in the final episode and was ranked 17th place.[2]

2021: Introduction, debut and Bipolar series

[edit]

On March 1, 2021, C9 Entertainment announced would introduced the members of their upcoming boy group under the tentative name C9Rookies.[3][4] The group's members were revealed individually starting on March 2 (in order: Keum, Baekseung, A-Min, MU, Yewang, Jeff, Wish and Ayden).[5][6][7][8][9] On April 1, the group's logo and official name were revealed.[1] A teaser titled "Prelude of Anxiety" was released on May 7. Their debut EP, Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety and its lead single "Lock Down", was released on June 8.[10]

On September 24, 2021, a teaser titled "Prelude of Love" was released on the group's social media accounts. Their second EP, Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love and its lead single "Do 4 Me" was released on October 26.[11]

2022–2023: Prelude of Anxiety and Love series

[edit]

On March 15, 2022, a teaser titled "21st Century Boys" was released on the group's social media accounts. Their third EP, Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 1. '21st Century Boys' and its lead single "Anthem of Teen Spirit" was released on April 11.[12]

On October 26, they released their fourth EP Prelude of Love Chapter 1. 'Puppy Love' , a sequel of their 2021 EP Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love, alongside the lead single "Hymn To Love".[13][14] To commemorate the EP release, they held an online showcase in the same day.[15] The group also announced would be embarking on their first concert tour, "Eight Apex", kicking off in Seoul on November 19–20, with ensuing shows in Osaka, Tokyo, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur and more cities.[16][17]

On March 27, 2023, the group released a logo animation for their upcoming fifth EP Prelude of Love Chapter 2. 'Growing Pains', set to be released in April.[18][19] Later that day, the timetable was released and confirmed that their fifth EP would be released on April 26.[20][21] The EP consists of four tracks including the lead single "Sunshower".[22] On April 26, the group held a showcase at Shinhan Play Square Live Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul to commemorating the release of their fifth EP.[23] Following the release of their fifth EP, the group announced to embarking their first fan-con "Sunshower" would held in June across four cities in Asia.[24][25]

On September 4, 2023, the group announced schedule to be release their sixth EP Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2. 'Can We Surrender?' on October 4.[26] Pre-orders for the EP surpassed 260,000 copies.[27] The sixth EP was officially released on October 4, containing four tracks including the lead single "Full Metal Jacket." It was the final chapter of Prelude of Anxiety series.[28][29]

On November 17, it was announced that Epex would perform another live show, "So We Are Not Anxious", in Seoul's Blue Square Mastercard Hall on December 16 and 17.[30]

In December, Epex collaboration with Japanese boy group Fantastics from Exile Tribe for the song "Peppermint Yum".[31]

2024–present: Youth series and collaboration

[edit]

In January 2024, Epex was announced to appear on the Japanese variety show K-Pop House for two weeks.[32] Not long after that, they were confirmed to perform "Peppermint Yum" in the Japanese music program CDTV Live! Live! on January 22.[33]

On February 26, 2024, the pre-release song "Graduation Day" for their upcoming first full-length album was released.[34][35] On March 18, Epex confirmed that their first full-length album Youth Chapter: Youth Days would release on April 9.[36] The album contains eight tracks including the lead single "Youth2Youth", the coupling song "Breathe In Love" and the pre-released "Graduation Day".[37] On April 22, the coupling song "Breathe In Love" also released music video that filmed in Taiwan.[38] The album surpassed 231,247 copies in the first week after release.[39]

On May 4, 2024, it was announced that Epex would held their second fan-con "Youth Days" in Seoul's KBS Arena on July 27 and 28.[40] On June 7, the second fan-con was also announced, to be held in Osaka's Zepp Osaka Bayside on September 1 and in Tokyo's Zepp Haneda on September 3.[41] Epex released its second full-length album "Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency” on November 5.[42] Following the release, the band went on another tour, visiting Macao, Taipei, and beyond.[43]

On May 6, 2025, Epex released the single "So Nice" in collaboration with the Arkansas-based indie rock band joan.[43]

On May 31, 2025, Epex performed in Fuzhou, China as part of their Youth Deficiency Asia Tour. The show was the first performance by an all-Korean K-pop group in mainland China since the nation's unofficial K-pop ban went into place in 2016.[43]

Members

[edit]

Adapted from their official website.[44]

  • Wish (위시)
  • Keum (금동현)
  • MU ()
  • A-Min (아민)
  • Baekseung (백승)
  • Ayden (에이든)
  • Yewang (예왕)
  • Jeff (제프)

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
List of studio albums with selected details, chart positions and sales
Title Details Peak chart positions Sales
KOR
[45]
Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days
Track listing
  1. "Killshot"
  2. "Breathe in Love"
  3. "Painkiller"
  4. "Youth2Youth" (청춘에게)
  5. "Dominate"
  6. "Lay Up"
  7. "My Secret" (말할 수 있는 비밀)
  8. "Graduation Day" (졸업식)
1
Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency
  • Released: November 5, 2024
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
4
Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth
  • Released: July 28, 2025
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
2

Extended plays

[edit]
List of extended plays with selected details, chart positions and sales
Title Details Peak chart positions Sales
KOR
[45]
JPN
[49]
Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety
  • Released: June 8, 2021
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. "Go Big"
  2. "Lock Down"
  3. "Cyanide"
  4. "No Question"
  5. "Sling Shot"
10 26
Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love
  • Released: October 26, 2021
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. "Love Virus"
  2. "Do 4 Me"
  3. "Breathtaking"
  4. "Traveller" (지구핼 여행자)
6
Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 1. '21st Century Boys'
  • Released: April 11, 2022
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. "Lone Wolf"
  2. "Anthem of Teen Spirit" (학원歌)
  3. "Burnout" (번아웃)
  4. "Strike"
  5. "I'll Go First"
5
Prelude of Love Chapter 1. 'Puppy Love'
  • Released: October 26, 2022
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. First Love's Law (첫사랑의 법칙)
  2. Love Bomb (고백 Bomb)
  3. Hymn to Love (사랑歌)
  4. The Vow (작은 언약식)
4
Prelude of Love Chapter 2. 'Growing Pains'
  • Released: April 26, 2023
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. My Darling (사랑하는 내 님아)
  2. Sunshower (여우가 시집가는 날)
  3. Goodbye, My First Love (안녕, 나의 첫사랑)
  4. Skyline (꿈의 능선)
6 24
Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2. 'Can We Surrender?'
  • Released: October 4, 2023
  • Label: C9 Entertainment
  • Formats: CD, digital download, streaming
Track listing
  1. Surrender
  2. Full Metal Jacket
  3. Hit the Wall
  4. No Roof
3

Singles

[edit]
List of singles, showing year released, selected chart positions, and name of the album
Title Year Peak chart position Album
KOR Down.
[58]
"Lock Down" 2021 Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety
"Do 4 Me" Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love
"Anthem of Teen Spirit" (학원歌) 2022 Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 1. '21st Century Boys'
"Hymn to Love" (사랑歌) 127 Prelude of Love Chapter 1. 'Puppy Love'
"Sunshower" (여우가 시집가는 날) 2023 96 Prelude of Love Chapter 2. 'Growing Pains'
"Full Metal Jacket" 150 Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2. 'Can We Surrender?'
"Youth2Youth" 2024 39 Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days
"Universe" 25 Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency
"Grateful to Tears (눈물나게 고마워)" 2025 67 Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.

Other charted songs

[edit]
Title Year Peak chart positions Album
KOR Down.
[58]
"First Love's Law" (첫사랑의 법칙) 2022 158 Prelude of Love Chapter 1. 'Puppy Love'
"Love Bomb" (고백 Bomb) 160
"The Vow" (작은 언약식) 162
"My Darling" (사랑하는 내 님아) 2023 145 Prelude of Love Chapter 2. 'Growing Pains'
"Goodbye, My First Love" (안녕, 나의 첫사랑) 146
"Skyline" (꿈의 능선) 149
"Killshot" 2024 68 Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days
"Breathe in Love" 65
"Painkiller" 70
"Dominate" 71
"Lay Up" 72
"My Secret" (말할 수 있는 비밀) 69
"Graduation Day" (졸업식) 75
"My Girl" Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency
"So Nice?" (featuring. Joan) 2025 Non-album single

Videography

[edit]

Music videos

[edit]
Title Year Director(s) Ref.
"Lock Down" 2021 Kim Woo-je
(ETUI Collective)
[59]
"Do 4 Me" [60]
"Anthem of Teen Spirit" 2022 [61]
"Hymn to Love" [62]
"Sunshower" 2023 [63]
"Full Metal Jacket" [64]
"Graduation Day" 2024 Gustavo Ku
(THIRDEYEVIDEO)
[65]
"YOUTH2YOUTH [66]
"Breathe in Love" Sunnyvisual [67]
"My Girl" [68]
"UNIVERSE" Gustavo Ku
(THIRDEYEVIDEO)
[69]
"Closer" [70]

Concerts and tours

[edit]

Headlining tours

[edit]
  • Eight Apex (2022)[16]
  • So We Are Not Anxious (2023–2024)[71][72]
  • Youth Deficiency Asia Tour (2024–2025)[43]

Fancon

[edit]
  • Sunshower (2023)[73]
  • Youth Days (2024)

Filmography

[edit]

Television shows

[edit]
Year Title Network Role Notes Ref.
2021 Welcome 2 House Mnet Main Reality show (with TO1) [74]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Name of the award ceremony, year presented, award category, nominee(s) of the award, and the result of the nomination
Award ceremony Year Category Nominee(s) Result Ref.
Asia Artist Awards 2021 Male Idol Group Popularity Award Epex Nominated [75]
Gaon Chart Music Awards 2022 New Artist of the Year – Physical Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love Nominated [76]
Golden Disc Awards 2022 Rookie Artist of the Year Epex Nominated [77]
Hallyu Influencer Grand Prize Awards[A] 2022 The Male Idol in the Rise Won [78]
Hanteo Music Awards 2021 Rookie Award – Male Group Won [79]
2022 Emerging Artist Award Won [80][unreliable source?]
K Global Heart Dream Awards 2023 K Global Next Leader Award Won [81]
Korea Culture Entertainment Awards 2021 Best New Male Artist Won [82]
Mnet Asian Music Awards 2021 Best New Male Artist Nominated [83]
Artist of the Year Longlisted
Album of the Year Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety Longlisted
Seoul Music Awards 2022 Rookie of the Year Epex Won [84]
Popularity Award Nominated [85]
K-wave Popularity Award Nominated

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia

EPEX (Korean: 이펙스; RR: Ipekseu; stylized in ) is a South Korean formed and managed by . The group consists of eight members: Wish, Keum, Mu, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff. EPEX debuted on June 8, 2021, with their first Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety. The group's name derives from "Eight Apex," representing the gathering of eight youths aspiring to reach the pinnacle of success.
EPEX's discography is structured around a narrative concept exploring bipolar themes, beginning with psychological states such as anxiety and progressing through chaos, recovery, and climax in subsequent releases like Bipolar Pt.2: Polar Dive and Anticipate. This storytelling approach distinguishes them within the landscape, emphasizing emotional depth and thematic continuity across albums. The group has performed internationally, including as the first all-Korean act in certain regions, contributing to their growing fanbase known as . While not yet achieving the commercial dominance of senior acts, EPEX has garnered attention for innovative music videos and live performances that align with their conceptual framework.

Name

Etymology and concept

The name EPEX derives from a portmanteau of "eight," referring to the group's original eight members, and "apex," denoting the highest point or peak. This combination symbolizes "the gathering of eight youths reaches eight different apexes," illustrating the members' collective journey toward individual and shared pinnacles of achievement. EPEX's artistic concept emphasizes narrative-driven storytelling centered on the psychological and emotional facets of youth, including anxiety, love, heartbreak, and personal evolution. Debuting with the Bipolar series, the group explores mental health themes, such as the duality of emotions in adolescence, through serialized albums that form interconnected story arcs. Subsequent releases, like the Prelude of Anxiety and Love and Youth series, delve into real-life experiences of young people, drawing from the members' own encounters to resonate with listeners facing similar challenges. This approach positions EPEX as chroniclers of generational struggles, prioritizing authenticity over idealized portrayals, though it has sparked debate over the handling of sensitive topics like mental disorders.

History

Pre-debut activities

The members of EPEX underwent rigorous training at prior to their group's formation and debut, with individual training periods varying from approximately 1 year and 10 months for Yewang to up to 5 years for members like Wish and A-Min. This preparation focused on vocal, , and skills typical of trainees, though specific details on daily regimens remain limited in public records. Keum, whose real name is Keum Dong-hyun, gained early visibility as a C9 trainee by competing on Mnet's survival program Produce X 101 in 2019, where he ranked 29th and was eliminated in episode 11 after two years of training at the agency. Baekseung also appeared publicly as a trainee on the survival show CAP-TEEN, a program featuring C9 prospects, providing one of the few pre-debut exposures for the lineup. No other members had notable individual public activities, such as acting or modeling, documented before the group's official introduction in March 2021. C9 Entertainment began teasing their upcoming boy group—initially branded as C9 Rookies—by revealing member profiles and concept photos starting March 1, 2021, building anticipation through and teaser content without full-group performances. These activities marked the transition from internal training to public promotion but preceded the official debut announcement.

2021: Formation, debut, and Bipolar series

EPEX, an eight-member boy group under C9 Entertainment, was officially introduced in early 2021 as the label's second male act following C9 Boyz. The group, comprising members Wish, Keum, Mu, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff, marked its formation through pre-release teasers beginning in March, building anticipation for a concept-driven debut focused on youth psychology. C9 Entertainment positioned EPEX as representing the "apex" of eight individuals navigating emotional extremes, with the name deriving from "eight" and "apex." The group debuted on June 8, 2021, with the mini-album Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety, a five-track release led by the title track "Lock Down." Produced amid ongoing restrictions, the EP's themes centered on isolation, anxiety, and struggles among young people, encapsulated in depicting a "lock down" of emotions. The album debuted at number 10 on the Gaon Album Chart and achieved over 50,000 first-week sales, signaling modest initial commercial reception for a group. The Bipolar series served as EPEX's inaugural narrative arc, framing the group's as a serialized exploration of bipolar emotional states—shifting between anxiety and —to mirror the internal conflicts of . Bipolar Pt.1 established this foundation with tracks like "Intro: Bipolar" and "My Youth," emphasizing disorder and self-doubt through introspective production blending hip-hop and pop elements. On October 26, 2021, EPEX continued the series with Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love, a four-track mini-album featuring the upbeat title track "Do 4 Me," which contrasted the debut's darker tones by delving into romantic longing and vulnerability. This release peaked at number 4 on the Gaon Album Chart and sold approximately 70,000 copies in its first week, reflecting growing fan engagement. The dual EPs together solidified EPEX's conceptual storytelling approach, though the themes drew mixed reactions for potentially trivializing clinical conditions like .

2022–2023: Prelude of Anxiety and Love series

On March 15, 2022, announced the Prelude of Anxiety and Love series as a continuation of EPEX's narrative universe, alternating between themes of inner turmoil and romantic emotions. The series began with the group's third EP, Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 1: '21st Century Boys', released on April 11, 2022, featuring five tracks including the lead single "Anthem of Teen Spirit," which addressed adolescent pressures through intense rock-infused production. Later that year, EPEX shifted to the love theme with their fourth EP, Prelude of Love Chapter 1: 'Puppy Love', issued on October 26, 2022, containing four songs led by the title track "Hymn to Love" (사랑歌), a upbeat pop number evoking youthful . To promote the release, the group held their first concert, Eight Apex, starting November 19, 2022, at Coex Artium in , performing hits from the series alongside earlier material. In 2023, EPEX extended the love arc with their fifth EP, Prelude of Love Chapter 2: '', launched on April 26, 2023, comprising four tracks with "Sunshower" as the title track, depicting heartbreak through a melodic, rain-inspired . The series concluded its 2022–2023 phase with the sixth EP, Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: 'Can We Surrender?', released October 4, 2023, featuring four songs including the hard-hitting lead "Full Metal Jacket," which critiqued systemic oppression in educational environments.

2024–2025: Youth series, international expansions, and challenges

In April 2024, EPEX released their first full-length album, Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days, marking the start of their Youth trilogy, which draws on the members' experiences to explore the concealed pains and secrets of early adulthood. The album includes tracks like "KillsHOT" and "Breathe in Love," emphasizing amid societal pressures. The series progressed with Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency on November 5, 2024, depicting emotional shortcomings in youth and the search for completeness through decision-making and self-confrontation. This release continued the from the prior chapter, focusing on internal voids and resilience. The trilogy concluded on July 28, 2025, with Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth, their third full-length album, which integrates romance with underlying darkness to resolve the youth journey's tensions. The work reflects growth pains and empathy, aligning with the group's emphasis on and relational complexities. Parallel to domestic releases, EPEX pursued international growth, starting with a two-week stint on Japan's K-Pop House in 2024. They followed with the "So We Are Not Anxious" Japan tour in February 2024, performing in Fukuoka, , , , and , alongside appearances at Dream Concert World in on August 10–11, 2024. In 2025, activities intensified, including a solo fan concert in August and members Mu and Baekseung walking the runway at TGC Kagawa 2025 by in April. A pivotal expansion occurred in May 2025, when EPEX held the first concert in in nine years during their Youth Deficiency Tour stop in on May 31, navigating regulatory hurdles amid eased restrictions. They also pioneered as the first Korean boy group to launch limited merchandise collaborations with Japanese chains Don Quijote, Apita, and Piago in May 2025, enhancing fan engagement abroad. These efforts coincided with thematic and operational challenges, as the Youth series grappled with portraying authentic youth struggles like emotional deficiency and relational ambiguity, informed by the members' own pressures in a saturated industry. Album production demanded reconciling personal vulnerabilities with commercial demands, while international forays required adapting to diverse markets amid logistical and cultural barriers.

Controversies

2022: Anthem of Teen Spirit lyrics and imagery

On April 11, 2022, EPEX released "Anthem of Teen Spirit" (Korean: 학원歌; Hagwongwa) as the title track of their third EP Bipolar II: Youth Pt.1 Prelude of Anxiety (Chapter 1), which drew immediate criticism for lyrics and music video elements interpreted as allusions to Nazi Germany's of November 9–10, 1938. The controversial lyric phrase "Crystal Night is coming" (Korean: 수정의 밤이 다가와), repeated in the song, directly evokes the term for —known in Korean as "수정의 밤" (night of crystal or broken glass)—a coordinated anti-Jewish violence involving the smashing of windows, synagogues, and businesses, resulting in at least 91 deaths and the arrest of 30,000 Jewish men. Critics argued this phrasing, combined with themes of societal pressure and rebellion, insensitive paralleled the historical event's violence against marginalized groups, though the song's Korean lyrics frame it within metaphors of educational conformity. The music video amplified concerns with imagery of EPEX members in stiff, black military-style uniforms evoking Nazi officer attire, marching formations suggesting regimentation, and scenes of shattering glass and confrontational "battles" against oppressive structures, which some viewers linked to depictions of destruction and authoritarian control. Stage costumes for promotions similarly featured high-collared, peaked-cap designs perceived as militaristic echoes, prompting accusations of historical insensitivity or inadvertent glorification of fascist in a critique of modern youth pressures. International fans, including those highlighting , demanded accountability from , viewing the elements as more than coincidental given South Korea's exposure to history through media and . C9 Entertainment responded on April 13, 2022, with a statement denying any or Nazi association, asserting the song critiques South Korea's "robotized" () system that enforces uniformity and stifles individuality, using "crystal night" as a for a shattering awakening from illusion rather than historical violence. The label apologized for causing discomfort, emphasized no intent to reference tragedies, and committed to revisions: altering the to remove "crystal night," violent or uniform-heavy scenes in the music video, and updating promotional outfits to avoid militaristic connotations. These changes were implemented promptly, with the updated version distributed on platforms, though the incident underscored gaps in cultural and historical vetting within production amid global sensitivities.

2024: Livestream incident

On November 28, 2024, during a group livestream on the fan communication platform Bubble, members of EPEX, including Keum and Mu, imitated behaviors and phrases commonly used by fans at fansign events, such as exaggerated reactions and repetitive compliments toward the idols. This segment, intended as playful by the members, drew immediate backlash from some fans who interpreted it as derisive of their and devotion. platforms saw widespread criticism, with netizens sharing clips and expressing feelings of betrayal, arguing that the imitation trivialized genuine fan interactions. In response, , EPEX's agency, issued an official apology on November 29, 2024, via the group's channels, acknowledging the fans' discomfort and clarifying that the members had no intention of ridiculing their supporters. The statement emphasized that the livestream was meant to highlight appreciation for fans' energy but recognized how it could be misconstrued, promising greater caution in future content. While some fans accepted the explanation as a miscommunication during casual off-duty streaming, others remained critical, viewing it as indicative of insensitivity toward fan culture in , where such events are central to idol-fan bonds. The incident occurred amid EPEX's promotional activities for their series, but it did not lead to formal sanctions or activity suspensions, with the group continuing scheduled releases and performances shortly thereafter. Koreaboo, a primary reporter of the event, based its coverage on fan-uploaded clips and agency statements, though independent verification of the full context relied on publicly available excerpts, highlighting potential for selective editing in viral backlash.

2025: Member hiatus announcement

On May 16, 2025, C9 Entertainment, the agency's managing EPEX, issued an official statement announcing that member Keum (real name Keum Dong-hyun) would temporarily halt all group activities due to unspecified personal reasons. The agency stated that Keum's suspension would remain in effect until the related matters were resolved, without providing further details on the nature of the issues. The announcement specified that EPEX would continue promotions as a seven-member unit consisting of the remaining members—, Mu, Amin, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and —effective immediately. This adjustment came amid the group's ongoing "Youth" series activities, including preparations for releases like the single "Picasso" and the Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth, though no direct impact on scheduled music projects was detailed in the statement. Prior to the hiatus, Keum had participated in early 2025 promotions, such as the English version of "Fool," but his birthday livestream scheduled for May 3 was canceled on April 30 for unspecified health-related reasons, hinting at preceding personal challenges. The hiatus drew attention in the context of EPEX's international expansions, coinciding with the recent postponement of their planned concert in , —originally set for May 31 as part of the "Youth Deficiency" tour and notable as the first K-pop event there in nearly a —which had been deferred on May 9 due to unspecified local issues rather than directly linked to Keum's situation. As of October 2025, Keum remained on hiatus, with the group maintaining activities in his absence, as confirmed in subsequent interviews. emphasized support for Keum's resolution of personal matters while prioritizing the group's continuity.

Members

Current active members

As of May 16, 2025, EPEX promotes with seven active members after Keum's indefinite hiatus due to personal reasons, as announced by C9 Entertainment. The group maintains its core lineup focused on vocals, rap, and dance, with Wish serving as leader.
Stage NameReal NameBirthdatePosition(s)
WishKwak Da-witJune 11, 2002Leader, Vocalist, Dancer
MuSuh Kyung-minSeptember 14, 2003
A-MinCho Min-wooMay 22, 2004Vocalist, Main Dancer
BaekseungKim Hyun-wooOctober 5, 2004Rapper
AydenKwon Ye-junJanuary 24, 2005Lead Rapper
YewangSeo Ye-wangMarch 12, 2005Main Vocalist
JeffLee Jae-hoApril 21, 2005Main Rapper, Maknae
All active members are South Korean nationals born between 2002 and 2005, with positions distributed across leadership, vocals, rap, and performance roles to support the group's dynamic stage presence.

Members on hiatus

Keum (Keum Dong-hyun), born May 3, 2003, entered an indefinite hiatus from EPEX group activities on May 16, 2025, as announced by . The agency cited unspecified personal reasons for the suspension, stating that his participation in promotions would halt until the issues were resolved, with the group proceeding as a seven-member unit in the interim. This development followed the cancellation of Keum's scheduled birthday livestream on April 30, 2025, and contributed to the postponement of EPEX's planned concert in , , originally set for May 31, 2025, marking the first K-pop performance there in nearly a . The announcement's vagueness regarding "personal reasons" prompted fan speculation and criticism toward for inadequate communication, though no further details have been disclosed by the agency or Keum as of October 2025. EPEX continued releases and activities without Keum, including the single "Fool (English Version)" in 2025, while maintaining their eight-member lineup in official profiles but noting his absence in live promotions. No timeline for his return has been provided, and he has not participated in subsequent group endeavors, such as the "Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth" album promotions.

Discography

Studio albums

EPEX's studio albums comprise the Youth Chapter (소화(韶華)) series, a trilogy of full-length releases exploring themes of , deficiency, and romance, marking the group's transition from extended plays to longer-form works under . The debut installment, Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days (소화(韶華) 1장: 청춘 시절), was released on April 9, 2024, featuring 10 tracks including the "Youth2Youth." It sold 178,840 copies on the Circle Chart.
TitleRelease dateSelected details
Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days (소화(韶華) 1장: 청춘 시절)April 9, 2024Debut studio album; 10 tracks; lead single "Youth2Youth"; 178,840 Circle Chart sales
Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency (소화(韶華) 2장: 청춘 결핍)November 6, 2024Second studio album; 10 tracks; first-day Hanteo sales of 133,908 units, a group record
Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth (소화(韶華) 3장: 낭만 청춘)July 29, 2025Third studio album; continues thematic exploration of youth romance; specific tracklist and sales data reflect post-release performance as of October 2025
These albums contributed to EPEX surpassing 1.1 million cumulative sales across their discography by August 2025.

Extended plays

EPEX's extended plays form the core of their early discography, structured around the conceptual "Bipolar" series that alternates between themes of adolescent anxiety and budding romance, reflecting the group's exploration of youth experiences. Released under , these EPs typically contain four to five tracks each, with title tracks emphasizing narrative-driven music videos and performances. The series began with the debut EP and continued through six installments until shifting toward full-length albums in 2024. The following table lists EPEX's extended plays in order of release:
No.TitleRelease dateTracksTitle track
1stBipolar Pt.1: Prelude of AnxietyJune 8, 20215"Lock Down"
2ndBipolar Pt.2: Prelude of LoveOctober 26, 20214"Do 4 Me"
3rdPrelude of Anxiety Chapter 1: '21st Century Boys'April 11, 20225"Anthem of Teen Spirit"
4thPrelude of Love Chapter 1: ''October 26, 20224"Hymn to Love"
5thPrelude of Love Chapter 2: ''April 26, 20234"Sunshower"
6thPrelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: 'Can We Surrender?'October 4, 20234""
These releases achieved modest commercial success in , with debut-week sales for Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety reaching 33,538 copies on Hanteo Chart, marking a solid entry for a rookie group. Subsequent EPs built on thematic continuity, incorporating genre blends like hip-hop and EDM to depict emotional duality, though none topped major charts like during this period.

Singles as lead artist

EPEX has released several digital singles as lead artist, primarily as pre-release tracks ahead of full albums or standalone collaborations, often in Korean with select English versions or partnerships. These releases typically feature themes of , emotion, and relationships, aligning with the group's "Youth" series narrative.
SingleRelease dateNotes
"K-909 : Baby good night"May 28, 2023First digital single, part of the 'Next Generation' project series.
" Day" (졸업식)February 5, 2024Pre-release for first full-length album Youth Chapter 1: Youth Days, evoking nostalgia for school days.
"My Girl"October 14, 2024Pre-release for second full-length album Youth Chapter 2: Youth Deficiency.
"so nice" (with joan)May 6, 2025English-language collaboration with American synth-pop duo joan.
"Picasso" (피카소)July 21, 2025Pre-release for third full-length album Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth, inspired by artistic expression.
"FOOL" (English version of "Grateful to Tears")September 12, 2025English adaptation of the title track from Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth, reinterpreting themes of relational manipulation.

Other charted songs

"Breathe in Love", a B-side from EPEX's first studio album Youth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS (released April 10, 2024), debuted at number 65 on the Circle Chart's download component. Similarly, "KILLSHOT" from the same album entered at number 68, while "My Secret" (말할 수 있는 비밀) reached number 69 on the download chart. "Painkiller" peaked at number 70, and "Dominate" at number 71, demonstrating modest digital traction for these non-title tracks amid the album's strong physical sales performance.
SongAlbumPeak (Circle Download)Year
Breathe in LoveYouth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS652024
KILLSHOTYouth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS682024
My SecretYouth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS692024
PainkillerYouth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS702024
DominateYouth Chapter 1: YOUTH DAYS712024
These entries reflect EPEX's reliance on album bundling and fan-driven downloads rather than widespread streaming dominance for B-sides, as the group has primarily excelled in physical metrics on platforms like Hanteo and Circle Album Charts. No other non-lead singles or prominent B-sides from prior EPs, such as Prelude of Anxiety Chapter 2: Surrender? (2023), achieved comparable documented positions on major Korean digital charts.

Videography

Music videos

EPEX's music videos, produced under , emphasize synchronized choreography, thematic storytelling aligned with their "youth" concept across releases, and high-production visuals often filmed in urban or school settings to evoke adolescent struggles and growth. These videos are primarily released for title tracks from their extended plays and albums, with occasional B-side or pre-release features, and are distributed via the official YouTube channel, garnering millions of views reflective of their growing domestic and international fanbase. The group's debut video for "Lock Down," released on June 8, 2021, alongside their first EP Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety, depicts themes of isolation and breakthrough with dynamic sequences in confined spaces. Subsequent videos include "Do 4 Me" from Bipolar Pt.2: Prelude of Love (January 24, 2022), featuring energetic performances emphasizing . "Anthem of Teen Spirit" (학원歌), the title track of Bipolar Pt.3: The Proven released April 11, 2022, portrayed school-life rebellion but drew criticism for perceived insensitive imagery, prompting an apology from regarding lyrical and visual elements. In the Youth series, "" (졸업식), a pre-release from their first full album Youth Chapter 1: Noise of the Youth dropped February 5, 2024, capturing nostalgic farewell motifs with over 10 million views accumulated. More recent entries feature "Picasso," a pre-release single for their third album Youth Chapter 3: Romantic Youth unveiled July 21, 2025, highlighting artistic expression through vibrant, surreal aesthetics. "Grateful to Tears" (눈물나게 고마워 or FOOL), from the same 2025 album cycle, incorporates emotional elements with intimate group dynamics. Additional videos for B-sides like "" (여우가 시집가는 날) and coupling tracks such as "Breathe in Love" (April 22, post-title release) expand their visual discography, often filmed internationally (e.g., for the latter).

Reality and promotional videos

EPEX participated in "Welcome 2 House," a reality series that premiered on April 27, 2021, alongside labelmates under . The program followed the 18 members as they shared living spaces, meals, and daily routines to build camaraderie and offer fans glimpses into pre-debut life, airing episodes on platforms including and . The group's debut was promoted through "EPEX Debut Show: Prelude," broadcast on on June 8, 2021, shortly after their January debut with the EP Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety. This one-episode special highlighted performances of debut tracks like "Lock Down," alongside introductory segments and production insights to introduce EPEX's concept of youth anxieties. In August 2024, EPEX launched "THE EPEX3," an ongoing YouTube-exclusive reality series produced by the group, featuring episodic content such as competitive games (e.g., shoe and pen drawing relays), busking challenges, and casual outings to engage their fanbase, . EPEX served as promotional ambassadors for "Talk Talk Korea 2025," a global contest initiative by the Republic of Korea, announced on June 5, 2025. They appeared in related videos and making-of content encouraging participation in categories like promotional videos on Korean culture, art & crafts, and memes, with episodes distributed via and the official campaign site.

Concerts and tours

Headlining tours

EPEX embarked on their debut headlining tour, titled EPEX 1st Concert , beginning with shows in on November 19, 2022. The tour expanded internationally, including a U.S. leg across nine cities from February 1 to 12, 2023, starting in New York and encompassing stops in Reading, , , , , , , and . The group's second headlining concert series, EPEX 2nd Concert , launched in at Blue Square on December 16–17, 2023. It continued as an tour in early 2024, with performances in Japanese cities such as (February 3), Fukuoka (February 5), and (February 7), followed by a show in on March 9. EPEX's third headlining effort, EPEX 3rd Concert <청춘결핍> (translated as Youth Deficiency), opened in on December 28–29, 2024. The Asia tour included dates in in March 2025 and extended to , , on May 31, 2025, representing the first solo concert by a group in the country in nine years amid prior regulatory restrictions on performances.

Fan conventions and showcases

EPEX held their debut showcase on June 8, 2021, coinciding with the release of their first EP Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety, featuring performances of lead tracks such as "Lock Down" for media and initial fans. The event marked the group's introduction to the public following pre-debut teasers from . A subsequent showcase occurred on April 26, 2023, at Shinhan Play Square Live Hall in Seoul's Mapo-gu district to promote their fifth EP, emphasizing new material and direct fan interaction in a promotional format. The group initiated fan-focused conventions with their first fan meeting, titled "MY ZENITH," held on June 22, 2022, in Korea, followed by dates in and their inaugural event later that year, offering closer engagements like Q&A sessions and acoustic sets. EPEX's fancon series began with the "Sunshower" tour in June 2023, starting with two-day events in on June 10–11, extending to multiple Asian cities including stops, designed as intimate performances blending concerts with fan appreciation elements. The second fancon, "Youth Days," took place in July 2024, primarily in , with a runtime of approximately 100 minutes focused on thematic youth narratives through setlists and visuals. Their third fancon, "Romantic Youth," was scheduled for on August 23 at 6 p.m. and August 24 at 5 p.m. in 2025, with an additional Japan leg on August 26 at Zepp DiverCity in , continuing the tradition of region-specific fan engagements amid their growing international presence. These events, organized by , typically feature exclusive content, merchandise, and limited-capacity attendance to foster direct artist-fan connections distinct from larger-scale tours.

Filmography

Television appearances

EPEX first gained exposure on television through promotional activities following their debut, including appearances on music programs such as Music Bank where they performed "Lock Down" on June 11, 2021. The group continued to feature on major broadcasting networks' music shows, such as KBS2's Music Bank for "Youth2Youth" on April 12, 2024, "UNIVERSE" on November 8, 2024, and "Grateful to Tears" on August 8, 2025. In variety programming, EPEX participated in TV's on April 26, 2022, where they discussed their album and performed. They made recurrent guest spots on MBC every1's , including episode 587 alongside on March 26, 2023, episode 660 in 2023, episode 534 with T1419, and episode 689 with on November 13, 2024. The group expanded internationally with a two-week stint on Fuji Television's K-Pop House airing January 11 and 18, 2024, showcasing behind-the-scenes content from their agency . Additional variety engagements include JTBC's Music Universe K-909 as guests in episode 14 in 2023.

Web series and documentaries

EPEX featured in the web drama Cats Dream, an eight-episode series released on January 31, 2024, in which the members portray an idol band whose souls are transferred into kittens and cared for by a high school girl and her friends. The plot revolves around themes of and recovery from trauma through animal companionship. The group produced the documentary series 21st Century Boys (21세기 소년들), a multi-episode web program released on their official YouTube channel in 2022, profiling individual members' personal stories and growth, including episodes on Keum (April 24, 2022), Yewang (May 11, 2022), Ayden, and Jeff. EPEX launched the YouTube reality web series THE EPEX3 on August 26, 2024, featuring the eight members in various challenges, games, and behind-the-scenes content aimed at engaging fans with unscripted group dynamics. Earlier reality web content includes EPEX: GO Welcome 2 House (pre-debut, May 22, 2021), documenting their preparation and group bonding, and THE EPEX Season 1 episodes such as "EPEX's Cells" (2021), focusing on competitive activities like e-sports.

Awards and nominations

Major awards won

EPEX won the Rookie of the Year award at the , held on February 16, 2022, recognizing their debut performance and sales data from that year. The group also received the Rookie of the Year award at the on January 23, 2022, selected based on a combination of sales, votes, and expert evaluations for their 2021 activities. In 2022, EPEX earned the Rising Star Award in the singer category at the Asia Model Awards on October 16, honoring their emerging popularity and modeling-related influence. At the 32nd Hanteo Music Awards on February 15, 2025, EPEX secured the Post Generation Award, acknowledging their sustained growth and chart performance among post-debut groups from 2021 onward.
YearAwardCeremony
2022Rookie of the YearHanteo Music Awards
2022Rookie of the YearSeoul Music Awards
2022Rising Star Award (Singer)Asia Model Awards
2025Post Generation AwardHanteo Music Awards

Nominations and other recognitions

EPEX received a for Rookie Artist of the Year at the in 2022. The group was also nominated for New Artist of the Year (Physical) at the 2022 Gaon Chart Music Awards for their mini-album Bipolar Pt. 2: Prelude of Love. In music programs, EPEX earned a for first place on SBS MTV's The Show with "Lock Down" from their debut EP Bipolar Pt. 1: The Beginning of the End, just 15 days after their June 2021 debut. For emerging artist honors, EPEX was nominated for the Next Icon Award at the 2025 Newsis K-Expo and for the Male Group Popularity Award at the 2025 K-World Dream Awards. Beyond formal award nominations, EPEX has been recognized for commercial achievements, including topping album sales among groups that debuted in 2021 as of September 2025. The group was selected as a global super rookie in the Hanteo Global K-pop Fan Choice Awards.

References

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