K-POP Group T:EV Debuts in Japan, Reaching No. 7 on Oricon Daily Chart

On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, the South Korean group T:EV (トゥエバー) officially released their first Japanese single, '5AM.' The group, known for their performance skills honed through extensive live experience in both Korea and Japan, achieved a significant milestone by ranking 7th on the Oricon Daily Single Chart for May 12.

From Busking to Global Success: The Background of T:EV T:EV is a four-member dance and vocal group consisting of Bonggeun, Taeyeong, Yuseong, and their newest member, Gyurae. The group's origins lie in busking performances held in Seoul's trend-setting districts of Hongdae and Sinchon. Their vocal and dance abilities, developed in environments where the boundary between stage and audience is minimal, gained attention globally. After releasing original music and holding solo concerts in Korea, the group moved its primary base of operations to Japan in 2023, successfully conducting solo performances in Tokyo and Osaka.

Debut Work '5AM': A Message of New Beginnings The title track '5AM' represents T:EV’s evolution under its new four-member structure. The concept focuses on the moment the sun begins to rise at 5:00 AM, symbolizing the group's strong will to break through the darkness and reach new heights. This release combines the group's previous experience with a more refined audio and visual presentation.

Choreography by Member Taeyeong A key feature of this debut is the choreography, which was handled by member Taeyeong. Utilizing his deep understanding of the group's dynamics and individual member personalities, Taeyeong designed the performance to visualize the dramatic world of the song. The high level of technicality in the choreography serves as evidence of T:EV’s professional growth.

New Korean Music Production by THE ONE The Japan debut project was spearheaded by THE ONE Co., Ltd., the operator of 'RE:LIVE HALL' in Shinjuku. With comprehensive support from the company, '5AM' received a strong response during pre-release showcases, leading to its top-tier ranking on the Oricon charts despite a highly competitive K-POP market in Japan. The group plans to continue regular performances at their home ground, RE:LIVE HALL, allowing fans to experience their growth in a close-proximity setting.