AB6IX (Korean: 에이비식스; pronounced [e.bi.sik.sʰɯ]) is a South Korean boy band formed in 2019 by the entertainment company Brand New Music.[1] The group currently consists of four members: Jeon Woong (born October 15, 1997), Kim Donghyun (born September 17, 1998), Park Woojin (born November 2, 1999), and Lee Daehwi (born January 29, 2001).[1] AB6IX debuted on May 22, 2019, with their first extended play (EP), B:COMPLETE, marking Brand New Music's first boy group launch.[2]The group's name, AB6IX, is an abbreviation for "Absolute Six" and "Above Brandnew Six," symbolizing the "absolute completeness" achieved when the original five members unite with their fandom, known as ABNEW, to form a transcendent entity.[1] Originally a five-member group that included Lim Youngmin (born December 25, 1995), AB6IX continued activities as a quartet following Youngmin's departure on June 8, 2020, after a drunk driving incident.[3][4] The members bring diverse pre-debut experiences: Park Woojin and Lee Daehwi rose to prominence as part of the project boy band Wanna One, formed through Mnet's survival program Produce 101 Season 2 in 2017, while Kim Donghyun and former member Lim Youngmin had debuted as the duo MXM in September 2017, also originating from Produce 101 Season 2 contestants.[5] Jeon Woong joined as a Brand New Music trainee, adding fresh talent to the lineup.[5]Since their debut, AB6IX has released multiple EPs and singles, blending pop, R&B, and dance elements in their music, with notable tracks like "Breathe" from their debut album.[5] The group has built a dedicated fanbase through fan concerts, such as the 2025 BE:6IX event held in Seoul in June, and continued promotions, including their tenth EP, Upside Down, released on August 25, 2025, and a performance at the 2025 ChangwonK-POP World Festival in October.[6][7] As of November 2025, AB6IX remains active under Brand New Music, focusing on domestic and international fan engagement.[6]
Name and concept
Etymology
The name AB6IX is an abbreviation for "Absolute Six," representing the absolute completeness and perfection achieved when the group's original five members unite with their fandom, who serve as the symbolic sixth member.[1] It also stands for "Above Brand New Six," reflecting the aspiration for the members and fans to elevate the legacy of Brand New Music beyond its established boundaries.[8]The name is pronounced as "A-B-Six" in English and "에이비식스" (Eibisikseu) in Korean.[1] Following the departure of member Lim Young-min in June 2020 due to a drunk driving incident, the group continued activities as a four-member unit while retaining the AB6IX name unchanged, preserving its core symbolism of wholeness through the enduring bond with fans as the completing element.[3]
Group concept
AB6IX is conceptualized as an "absolute" boy group, embodying the pinnacle of completeness and synchronization in performance and artistry under Brand New Music. This vision stems directly from the pre-debut BRANDNEWBOYS project, a survival-style program that selected and honed the members to form a unit where individual strengths merge into a flawless collective, emphasizing harmony, versatility, and unyielding unity.[9] The core idea portrays the group as the "absolute complete body" of Brand New Boys, achieving true wholeness only through the integration of its members with their dedicated fandom, ABNEW, forming an indivisible six despite lineup changes.[1]AB6IX's thematic progression reflects an artistic evolution, starting with the fresh, youthful energy of their formative phase that captured raw potential and group synergy, gradually shifting toward mature, futuristic narratives that explore introspection, resilience, and forward-looking innovation in subsequent eras. This development underscores the group's commitment to growth, adapting their "absolute" identity to deeper emotional and conceptual layers while maintaining core synchronization.[10]
History
Pre-debut
Brand New Music initiated the BRANDNEWBOYS project in 2017, selecting members through internal trainee evaluations to form a new boy group. As part of this effort, four trainees from the agency—Lim Young-min, Kim Dong-hyun, Lee Dae-hwi, and Park Woo-jin—participated in Mnet's survival program Produce 101 Season 2, which aired from April to July 2017.[11]Lim Young-min and Kim Dong-hyun were eliminated during the competition, with Young-min placing 15th overall and Dong-hyun ranking around 29th before the final episode.[12] In contrast, Lee Dae-hwi and Park Woo-jin achieved higher rankings of 3rd and 6th, respectively, securing positions in the temporary boy group Wanna One, which promoted from August 2017 to January 2019.[13]While Dae-hwi and Woo-jin were active in Wanna One, Lim Young-min and Kim Dong-hyun debuted as the duo MXM—the first subunit under the BRANDNEWBOYS project—on September 6, 2017, with the mini album Unmix and lead single "I'm the One."[14] Throughout 2018, MXM released additional pre-debut content for the upcoming group, including the singles "Match Up" and "Rematch" in early 2018, followed by "One More" later that year, and their first full-length album More Than Ever in August.[15]Jeon Woong, the fifth member, joined Brand New Music after training at JYP Entertainment, where he honed his skills as a vocalist and dancer over several years.[16] In preparation for the group's official debut, Brand New Music released individual teaser images and videos for all five members starting in April 2019, building anticipation for their launch as AB6IX.[17]
2019–2020: Debut and early activities
AB6IX debuted on May 22, 2019, with their first EP B:Complete, released under Brand New Music, featuring seven tracks including the lead single "Breathe." The group, formed from members who had previously gained recognition through survival programs like Produce 101 Season 2 and MIXNINE, held their debut showcase at Olympic Hall in Seoul on the same day, performing "Breathe" alongside other tracks such as "Shining Star" and "Absolute." The single "Breathe," a pop track with electronic elements co-produced by Rhymer, debuted at No. 4 on the Gaon Weekly Digital Chart, marking a strong entry for the rookie group.[2][18]Following their debut, AB6IX released their first studio album 6ixense on October 7, 2019, comprising 11 tracks with the title track "Blind for Love," a deep house song that continued the atmospheric style of their earlier work. The album's promotions included music video releases and performances on shows like M Countdown, where the group showcased synchronized choreography and vocal harmonies. "Blind for Love" highlighted the members' growth, blending R&B influences with electronic beats, and helped solidify their presence in the K-pop scene during their inaugural year.[19][20]On June 8, 2020, Brand New Music announced the departure of member Lim Young-min following a drunk driving incident on May 31, after which his driver's license was revoked; the agency stated that AB6IX would continue as a four-member group. This led to the postponement of their second EP Vivid from June 8 to June 29, 2020, amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted live promotions and shifted focus to online activities. The EP, featuring six tracks with the lead single "The Answer"—an upbeat pop song emphasizing resilience—allowed the remaining members to adapt and maintain momentum through virtual performances and social media engagement.[3][21]Throughout 2019 and early 2020, AB6IX built their fanbase, known as ABNEW, by leveraging online content such as behind-the-scenes videos, vlogs, and live streams on platforms like YouTube and V Live, which fostered direct interaction with fans globally. Their first fan meeting tour, "1st ABNEW," commenced in July 2019 with sold-out shows in Seoul at Jamsil Indoor Stadium, attracting over 12,000 attendees across two days, followed by stops in Singapore, Tokyo, and other Asian cities, where they performed debut tracks and shared personal stories to strengthen fan loyalty.[22][23]
2021–2022: Expansions and Japanese entry
In January 2021, AB6IX released the repackaged version of their previous EP Salute, titled Salute: A New Hope, which included new tracks such as the title track "Stay Young" and "Encore" (feat. ABNEW).[24] The album aimed to provide comfort and hope during challenging times, incorporating rearranged versions of prior songs alongside fresh additions.[24]Early in the year, the group expanded internationally by collaborating with the American band Why Don't We on a remix of their track "Fallin' (Adrenaline)", released on January 7.[25] This marked AB6IX's second U.S. tie-up, following their 2019 remix of Lizzo's "Truth Hurts".[25]The Mo' Complete series began in April 2021 with the release of their fourth EP, MO' COMPLETE: Have a Dream, featuring the upbeat title track "Headline" and emphasizing themes of aspiration and growth.[26] The project concluded in September with their second studio album MO' COMPLETE, which included 10 tracks led by the R&B-infused title track "Cherry", composed by Lee Daehwi.[27] The album showcased the group's evolving sound, blending pop and electronic elements across songs like "Level Up" and "Off the Record".[27]In November 2021, AB6IX held their debut Japanese showcase and entered the market with their first Japanese EP Absolute 6IX under Victor Entertainment, featuring Japanese versions of "Breathe" and "Cherry" as double title tracks.[28]In May 2022, the group returned with their fifth Korean EP A to B, highlighting energetic tracks like "High Five" alongside the title track "Savior", which demonstrated their matured performance style through intricate choreography.[29] The EP performed well internationally, charting on Japan's Oricon Weekly Album list.[30]AB6IX further solidified their Japanese presence in August 2022 with their second Japanese EP Savior, including the bilingual title track "Savior -Japanese ver.-" and originals like "Umbrella", supported by promotional events and music videos tailored for the market.[31]
2023: The Future Is Ours series
In 2023, AB6IX launched their "The Future Is Ours" album series with the seventh mini album The Future Is Ours: Lost, released on May 29. The EP featured five tracks, including the title track "Loser," a pop song that delves into themes of inner conflict, anxiety, emptiness, and the determination to overcome doubts in pursuit of a brighter future.[32][33] The album's concept embraced a dystopian aesthetic with sci-fi visuals, portraying the group's journey through a narrative of struggle and ambition toward an "absolute future."[32][34]Building on their growing Japanese market presence from 2022, AB6IX promoted Lost actively throughout the year, securing their first music show win for "Loser" on The Show on June 6, 2023.[35][36][37] The track debuted at number 175 on the Circle Digital Chart, reflecting streams from platforms like Melon and Genie, and contributed to the EP topping album sales charts in its debut week.[38]Mid-year activities included announcements for the 2023 AB6IX World Tour "The Future," which kicked off with fan concerts in Seoul in September, followed by international dates, emphasizing live performances that tied into the series' futuristic theme.[39][40]
2024–2025: Recent comebacks and tours
In July 2024, AB6IX embarked on their "Find YOU" fan concert tour across North America, performing in nine cities—Toronto (July 3), Montreal (July 5), New York (July 7), Mexico City (July 10), Miami (July 12), Atlanta (July 14), Austin (July 16), Denver (July 18), and Los Angeles (July 21)—showcasing a setlist featuring hits like "TRAVELER" and "GRAB ME" from their previous EP, alongside fan-favorite tracks such as "THE ANSWER," emphasizing high-energy choreography and member interactions to celebrate their growing international fanbase.[41][42]Following the tour, the group released their special EP Find YOU on August 13, 2024, compiling solo performances from the concerts into four tracks, including member-specific songs that highlighted individual vocal and artistic styles. The EP served as a direct extension of the tour's intimate fan engagement, with promotional activities focusing on behind-the-scenes documentaries and highlight clips shared via official channels.[43][44]On October 10, 2024, AB6IX returned with their ninth EP, BORN LIKE THIS, which delves into themes of self-discovery and personal growth through its five tracks, led by the title track "NVKED." Each member contributed to songwriting, infusing the album with reflections on individuality and resilience, as evidenced by the diverse genres ranging from intense pop to introspective ballads like "Butterfly Effect." The release was promoted through concept photos emphasizing bold aesthetics and a highlight medley that garnered attention for its emotional depth.[45][46]Marking their sixth anniversary, AB6IX held the fan concert "BE:6IX" on June 14 and 15, 2025, at the Universal Arts Center in Seoul, drawing thousands of fans with a setlist revisiting past hits like "Music" and "Close," alongside newer tracks from BORN LIKE THIS. The two-day event featured special stages, fan games, and heartfelt messages from the quartet lineup, reinforcing their bond with supporters since their 2019 debut. Behind-the-scenes content, including choreography practices, was later released to extend the celebratory atmosphere.[47][48]The group's momentum continued with the release of their tenth EP, UPSIDE DOWN, on August 25, 2025, featuring the title track "Stupid" and exploring dynamic pop sounds across its tracks. Promotional efforts included a detailed schedule with teasers, visualizers for each member's contribution, and music video releases that emphasized playful yet introspective visuals, achieving strong streaming performance on platforms like Spotify. In November 2025, AB6IX announced their 2026 Season's Greetings package, titled "PROJECT 6: PROTOTYPE ARCHIVE," with pre-orders opening on November 7, offering exclusive photobooks and digital content to fans.[49][50]Throughout 2025, AB6IX maintained visibility through key performances, notably at the ChangwonK-POP World Festival on October 17, where they delivered energetic sets including "STUPID," captivating an international audience and contributing to the event's broadcast on KBS2. These activities underscored the group's sustained activity as a quartet, building on their established discography and global outreach.[51]
Members
Current members
Jeon Woong (전웅), born October 15, 1997, in Daejeon, South Korea, serves as the main vocalist and lead dancer of AB6IX.[52] Standing at 172 cm with blood type B, he trained for approximately six years across JYP Entertainment, Woollim Entertainment, and YG Entertainment before joining Brand New Music.[52][16] His vocal range, particularly high notes, has been highlighted in performances of tracks like the debut single "Breathe."[52] A fun fact about Woong is that he is allergic to cat fur.[52]Kim Dong-hyun (김동현), born September 17, 1998, acts as the lead vocalist, visual, and leader of the group.[52] At 180 cm tall with blood type O, he gained pre-debut experience as part of the Brand New Music duo MXM alongside former member Lim Young-min, where he contributed to ballads and showcased his vocal stability.[52]) Dong-hyun is a fan of the group SEVENTEEN.[52]Park Woo-jin (박우진), born November 2, 1999, holds positions as main rapper, main dancer, and sub-vocalist.[52] He measures 178 cm in height with blood type A and was a former JYP Entertainment trainee before ranking sixth on Produce 101 Season 2, leading to his time as a member of the project group Wanna One from 2017 to 2019.[52][53] As a versatile dancer proficient in styles like B-boying, popping, crumping, and locking, Woo-jin often provides input on choreography for AB6IX's performances.[52]Lee Dae-hwi (이대휘), born January 29, 2001, is the main producer, lead vocalist, lead dancer, center, face of the group, and maknae.[52] At 173 cm with blood type A, he previously lived in the United States and Japan, is fluent in English, and is left-handed; he also ranked third on Produce 101 Season 2, debuting in Wanna One.[52][54] Dae-hwi contributes significantly to songwriting and composition, including co-writing and co-composing the title track "Vivid" from the group's 2020 EP of the same name.[52][55]
Former members
Lim Young-min (born December 25, 1995) was the leader, lead rapper, and vocalist of AB6IX.[52] Prior to the group's formation, he debuted as part of the project duo MXM alongside Kim Dong-hyun in September 2017, contributing vocals and rap to tracks including "Switch" from their mini-album Unmix.[56] In AB6IX, he played a pivotal role in the group's early promotions from their debut in May 2019 through early 2020, leading performances for the studio album B:Complete—where he co-wrote lyrics for several songs—and the extended play5!X, including music show stages and fan events that helped establish the group's all-rounder image.[57][58]Lim Young-min's tenure ended abruptly on June 8, 2020, when Brand New Music announced his departure following a drunk driving incident on May 31, 2020; he had halted group activities on June 4 after the agency confirmed the violation.[3] The decision came after internal discussions, with the agency stating it respected his choice to leave amid the controversy, and he issued a public apology acknowledging his responsibility and the disappointment caused to fans and members.[3][59]His exit significantly altered AB6IX's dynamics, reducing the lineup to four members and prompting adjustments in leadership and performance roles as the group postponed their Vivid comeback to June 29, 2020, to regroup.[60] Fan reactions were mixed, with expressions of shock and concern over the scandal's timing during the group's rising popularity, though many supported the agency's swift handling to protect the remaining members' activities.[61]Following his departure, Lim Young-min enlisted for mandatory military service in August 2020 and was discharged in May 2022.[62] He made his solo debut on August 29, 2023, with the EP Room under BRANDNEW-A, Brand New Music's sub-label, marking his return to music after reflection. His exclusive contract with the agency concluded mutually on June 26, 2025.[62]
Other activities
Endorsements and ambassadorships
AB6IX secured several commercial partnerships shortly after their debut, enhancing their visibility in the beauty and fashion sectors. Prior to their official debut, the group was selected as models for the Korean skincare brand Acwell in April 2019, promoting products through pictorials and campaigns that aligned with their youthful image.[63]In August 2019, AB6IX was announced as models for Elite school uniforms, targeting the 2020 semester market in collaboration with actress Shin Ye Eun; the behind-the-scenes footage highlighted their energetic promotion of the brand's casual and stylish designs for students.[64]Individual members also pursued endorsements, with Lee Dae-hwi partnering with the beverage brand Fanta in July 2019 to promote pineapple and orange flavors alongside Jeon Somi; the campaign featured Dae-hwi in vibrant advertisements, earning him the playful nickname "Human Fanta" among fans.[65]The group was appointed as public relations ambassadors for the Korea Scout Association on September 19, 2019, participating in promotional activities to encourage youth involvement in scouting programs.[66]In May 2025, AB6IX was named promotional ambassadors for Lotte Hotel's Hallyu campaign, contributing to initiatives that spotlight Korean culture through hotel promotions and events.[67]
Philanthropy
AB6IX has engaged in several philanthropic initiatives, primarily centered on youth welfare, anti-bullying efforts, and community support, often in collaboration with their agency Brand New Music and fan community. Since 2020, the group has served as official ambassadors for the Blue Elephant campaign under the Blue Tree Foundation, a program dedicated to preventing cyberbullying and promoting safe online environments for teenagers. Through this role, they have participated in awareness events, educational workshops, and donated funds specifically for healing and preventing school violence, contributing to broader youth protection efforts.[68]In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Brand New Music, AB6IX's agency, donated 5,000 masks to the Blue Tree Foundation in February 2020 to aid in infection prevention and support vulnerable youth communities affected by the crisis. This initiative aligned with the group's ambassador activities and highlighted their early commitment to public health during the outbreak. Additionally, in June 2023, AB6IX performed at the Seowon Valley Charity Green Concert, an event focused on environmental and social causes, further demonstrating their involvement in charitable performances.[69][70]The group's philanthropy extends to fan-driven efforts, which have become long-term initiatives tied to milestones like birthdays and anniversaries. Fans of member Park Woo-jin, for example, donated 112 snack packages, 60 kg of fruits, and 10,000 KF-AD masks to orphanages in Busan (Aea Won) and Daejeon (Jahye Won) in 2020, emphasizing support for underprivileged children. Similarly, through the CHOEAEDOL platform, supporters of member Lee Dae-hwi have secured multiple "Charity Fairy" titles—achieved via fan voting—resulting in recurring donations of 500,000 KRW each to the MIRAL Welfare Foundation in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025, aiding children's welfare programs. These fan-led campaigns underscore the symbiotic relationship between AB6IX and their global fandom, ABNEW, in fostering ongoing charitable impact.[71][72][73][74][75]Individual members have also contributed personally, with the group collectively participating in creative philanthropy projects. In April 2022, ahead of World Health Day, AB6IX posed for charity photo shoots with Good Neighbors Korea, raising awareness and funds for global children's health and well-being; member Kim Dong-hyun featured prominently in one such session, highlighting accessible healthcare for youth. These activities reflect AB6IX's sustained emphasis on youth education and emotional support, often integrated with their artistic endeavors.[76]
Discography
Studio albums
AB6IX released their debut studio album, 6ixense, on October 7, 2019. The 10-track album, produced primarily by in-house Brand New Music team members including Lee Dae-hwi, showcases a mix of pop, R&B, and dance tracks, with the lead single "Blind for Love" highlighting the group's vocal harmonies and choreography. It debuted at number 2 on the Gaon Album Chart and sold 141,293 copies.[77][78]
The group's second studio album, Mo' Complete, was released on September 27, 2021. The 10-track album peaked at number 2 on the Circle Album Chart.Collectively, AB6IX's studio albums have sold over 250,000 copies in South Korea as of 2025.[79]
Korean extended plays
AB6IX debuted with their first EP, B:Complete, released on May 22, 2019, by Brand New Music, which debuted at number 2 on the Gaon Album Chart and sold 168,075 copies in its first year.[80] The six-track EP featured the lead single "Breathe," a dance-pop track that highlighted the group's synchronized choreography and vocal harmonies, peaking at #79 on the Circle Digital Chart and earning 2 music show wins.Their second EP, Vivid, arrived on June 29, 2020, peaking at number 3 on the Gaon Album Chart with sales exceeding 120,000 units.) This five-track release included the lead single "The Answer," an upbeat pop song emphasizing emotional lyrics and dynamic production, peaking at #70 on the Circle Digital Chart.Subsequent releases include Salute (November 2, 2020, peaked #5 Circle Album Chart, lead "Salute" #93 Digital), Mo' Complete: Have a Dream repackage (April 26, 2021, #3), Complete with You (January 17, 2022, #9), A to B (May 18, 2022, #4, lead "Savior" #105 Digital), and Take a Chance (October 4, 2022, #4).The seventh EP, The Future Is Ours: Lost, was released on May 29, 2023, peaking at number 7 on the Circle Album Chart with first-month sales of 25,000 copies. This five-track project led with "Loser," peaking at #175 on the Circle Digital Chart. Its counterpart, The Future Is Ours: Found, followed on January 22, 2024, peaking at #3 with first-month sales of 25,000 copies, featuring the lead single "Grab Me" #150 Digital.[81][82]Born Like This, released October 10, 2024, peaked at #3 on the Circle Album Chart.Find YOU, a special four-track EP released on August 13, 2024, debuted at number 3 on the Circle Album Chart and consisted entirely of solo tracks from each member, with no designated lead single to emphasize individual artistry.[44]The group's tenth EP, Upside Down, launched on August 25, 2025, peaked at number 9 on the Circle Album Chart with first-week sales of 29,495 copies. This five-track EP's lead single "Stupid" incorporated experimental electronic influences.[83][6]
AB6IX expanded into the Japanese market with Absolute 6ix, their first Japanese EP released on November 24, 2021, by Victor Entertainment, which peaked at number 15 on the Oricon Albums Chart.Savior, their second Japanese EP released on August 17, 2022, peaked at number 8 on the Oricon Albums Chart. The five-track EP featured the Japanese version of "Savior" as the lead single.[88]Their third Japanese EP, TRAP / GRAB ME (Japanese ver.), was issued on July 3, 2024, peaking at number 18 on the Oricon Albums Chart, including Japanese adaptations of tracks from recent Korean releases, with "Grab Me - Japanese ver." as the lead single.[89]
AB6IX's singles discography includes lead tracks from their Korean and Japanese releases, with several achieving positions on major charts. Their debut single "Breathe" from B:Complete peaked at #79 on the Circle Digital Chart in 2019 and earned 2 music show wins. The group has since released singles blending pop, R&B, and dance elements.Subsequent Korean singles include "Blind for Love" (2019, #67 Digital, 4 wins), "The Answer" (2020, #70), "Salute" (2020, #93), "Stay Young" (2021, #58), "Cherry" (2021, #56), "Savior" (2022, #105), "Loser" (2023, #175), and "Grab Me" (2024, #150).In the Japanese market, "Fly Away" (2023) peaked at #33 on Oricon Singles Chart.[90]
Title
Year
Peak Chart Position
Album/EP
Music Show Wins
Breathe
2019
#79 (Circle Digital)
B:Complete
2
Blind for Love
2019
#67 (Circle Digital)
6ixense
4
The Answer
2020
#70 (Circle Digital)
Vivid
0
Salute
2020
#93 (Circle Digital)
Salute
0
Savior
2022
#105 (Circle Digital)
A to B
0
Loser
2023
#175 (Circle Digital)
The Future Is Ours: Lost
1
Grab Me
2024
#150 (Circle Digital)
The Future Is Ours: Found
0
Fly Away
2023
#33 (Oricon Singles)
Non-album
0
Other charted songs
Several non-lead tracks from AB6IX's discography have charted, particularly on digital platforms. Beyond traditional charts, album tracks have accumulated streams on platforms like Melon, driven by fan engagement.
Videography
Music videos
AB6IX's music videos emphasize the group's charismatic performances and thematic storytelling, often blending high-energy choreography with visual narratives that reflect their song concepts.The debut music video "Breathe" (2019) revolves around an urban dance theme, portraying the members breaking free from constraints through dynamic street-style choreography and vibrant city aesthetics. Uploaded to their official YouTube channel, it has approximately 14 million views as of November 2025, excluding teasers and behind-the-scenes content.[91]
Concert films
AB6IX's first major concert film documented the Seoul finale of their inaugural world tour, titled 6ixense, which took place on November 9, 2019, at the SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium. The recording was released as a two-disc Blu-ray on June 10, 2020, featuring the complete live setlist spanning their debut tracks like "Switching" and "Blind for Love," alongside behind-the-scenes making-of content and interviews.[92] Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the postponement or cancellation of the tour's North American and European legs starting in March 2020, promotional elements including teasers were shared online via V LIVE to reach global fans.[93][94]In June 2025, AB6IX held their fan concert BE:6IX at the Universal Arts Center in Seoul on the 14th and 15th, marking a milestone post their 2024 activities with live band accompaniment for the first time. Highlights from the event, including key performances of hits like "Savior" and newer tracks, were subsequently compiled and released as official behind-the-scenes videos and fan cam montages on their YouTube channel, offering multi-perspective captures to enhance fan engagement.[67][48]Associated with their 2023 mini-album The Future is Ours: Lost, AB6IX produced multi-angle performance videos during promotional stages, notably at KCON Japan 2023, where footage of tracks like "Savior" and "Mirror" was edited into synchronized multi-cam formats for immersive viewing. These album-tied videos emphasized the group's synchronized choreography and vocal dynamics from the tour era.[95]In August 2025, AB6IX released the music video for "Stupid," the title track from their tenth EP Upside Down, continuing their thematic visual style.[96]Distribution of AB6IX's concert films has primarily occurred through YouTube exclusives for global accessibility, with select releases on physical media in Japan, such as the 2022 fan meeting AB_NEW AREA Blu-ray/DVD issued on December 21, capturing their Yokohama and Osaka events with bonus content.[97] Full concert details are covered in the tours section.
Filmography
Reality and variety shows
AB6IX has appeared in a number of reality and variety programs that highlight their pre-debut journey, group bonding, and entertaining performances. These shows have provided fans with insights into their preparation process and playful interactions.The group's first major reality program was the pre-debut series Brand New Boys, which aired on Mnet starting April 18, 2019. This eight-episode show documented the formation of AB6IX by combining the duo MXM (Lim Young-min and Lee Dae-hwi), former Wanna One members Park Woo-jin and Kim Dong-hyun, and new trainee Jeon Woong, capturing their training, challenges, and path to debut.[98]Following their May 2019 debut, AB6IX featured in AB4U, a four-part reality series launched on V Live (later available on YouTube) as part of their first anniversary celebrations in 2020. The program focused on team-building activities and personal challenges designed to deepen the members' camaraderie and showcase their off-stage personalities.[99]In the variety realm, AB6IX made a notable group appearance on Weekly Idol in episode 408, aired on May 22, 2019, where they participated in signature segments like random play dance and chit-chat games to promote their debut single "Breathe."[100]
Reality show exploring group dynamics and challenges (10 episodes).
2023
Chill Club
ViuTV
Variety appearances focusing on music and games.
2023
Where Do You Go
HOYTV
Travel and variety program with group activities.
Drama and web series appearances
AB6IX members have made notable forays into scripted acting, primarily through web dramas and supporting roles in television series, often leveraging their idol personas to portray youthful, relatable characters.The group collectively appeared in the promotional web seriesAB6IX: The Chaser in 2022, a series of skits and narrative segments produced in collaboration with the Universe app to engage fans with behind-the-scenes storytelling and light-hearted scripted scenarios tied to their music promotions.[102]Lee Dae-hwi debuted as an actor in the 2019 web drama Monchouchou Global House, taking the lead role of Dong Jin-woo, an orphan raised by his grandmother who navigates life in a shared house with international residents, blending comedy and slice-of-life elements.[103] In 2022, he portrayed Kim Sang-woo, a supporting character in the romantic comedy series Love Is for Suckers, contributing to the show's exploration of unrequited love and personal growth among friends.[104]Kim Dong-hyun gained recognition for his lead role in the 2021 web drama Convenience Store Fling, a short-form series depicting youthful encounters and budding romances in everyday settings, co-starring fellow idols like Golden Child's Jaehyun and PENTAGON's Wooseok.[105] He followed with a supporting part in the 2021 romance drama Let Me Be Your Knight, playing a band member in a story about an idol's personal struggles and redemption through music.
Concerts and tours
Showcases and fan meetings
AB6IX held their debut showcase for the extended play B:Complete on May 22, 2019, at Olympic Hall in Songpa-gu, Seoul, performing the title track "Breathe" alongside tracks such as "Shining Star" and "Absolute".[106][2] The event marked the group's introduction to fans, featuring live renditions of their debut material and initial interactions with attendees.In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, AB6IX hosted their first online fan meeting titled SO VIVID on September 12, conducted via the Fanbox Live platform.[107] This virtual event allowed global fans to engage through live streams, including mini-performances from their VIVID album and Q&A sessions, while offering exclusive digital merchandise and behind-the-scenes content.[108]To promote their entry into the Japanese market following the 2021 release of Absolute 6IX, AB6IX organized a fan meeting as part of the AB_NEW AREA tour on June 16 and 17, 2022, at a venue in Tokyo.[109] The shows included Japanese versions of select tracks, interactive Q&A segments, and limited-edition merchandise sales tailored for local fans.Celebrating their anniversaries, AB6IX conducted fan meetings integrated into tour formats in subsequent years. For their fourth anniversary in 2023, the THE FUTURE world tour fan meetings featured intimate performances, fan games, and Q&A interactions starting in Seoul and extending internationally.[110] In 2024, marking their fifth anniversary, the Find YOU fan concert series included similar elements like mini-performances and exclusive merchandise, with events across North America and Europe.[111]These showcases and fan meetings emphasized close fan engagement through Q&A sessions, short live performances, and special merchandise, paving the way for the group's expansion into larger-scale tours.
Headlining concerts and tours
AB6IX's first major headlining tour, titled <6IXENSE>, was announced in late 2019 as their inaugural world tour, scheduled to span multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and North America starting in early 2020.[112] The tour was intended to feature performances in 19 countries, with confirmed stops in seven U.S. cities such as Newark, Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, Dallas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, alongside European dates in cities like Berlin and Japanese shows in Chiba and Osaka.[93] However, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the entire tour was postponed and ultimately canceled, with announcements citing health and safety concerns for artists and fans; this included the indefinite delay of European legs in February 2020 and full cancellation of U.S. dates by March 2020, as well as rescheduling of Japanese concerts that never materialized.[113] A DVD release of their Seoul showcase portion was later produced to commemorate the planned event.[93]In 2023, AB6IX embarked on their second world tour, , which included several Asia stops to promote their album of the same name.[40] The tour kicked off with concerts in Seoul on May 27 and 28 at Yes24 Live Hall, followed by performances in Macau on July 15, Osaka on October 14–15, and Tokyo on October 21–22.[114][115] These shows highlighted energetic setlists blending hits like "The Answer" and "Blaze" with newer tracks, drawing strong fan engagement across the region.[116]The group's 2024 fan concert tour marked their first dedicated North American headlining run, spanning nine cities and attracting over 10,000 attendees in total.[41] Beginning with Seoul dates in late May, the North American portion commenced on July 3 in Toronto at the George Weston Theatre, followed by stops in Montreal (July 5, Rialto Theatre), New York (July 7, Racket NYC), Mexico City (July 10, Auditorio BB), Miami (July 12, Lauderhill Performing Arts Center), Atlanta (July 14), Austin (July 16), Denver (July 18, Gothic Theatre), and Los Angeles (July 21).[117] The tour featured interactive fan segments and performances of fan-favorite songs, emphasizing the group's connection with international audiences.[118]In 2025, AB6IX held their BE:6IX fan concert in Seoul over two days, June 14 and 15, at the Universal Arts Center in Gwangjin District, marking their first live band accompaniment for a full-scale show.[47] The performances included a setlist of over 20 songs spanning their discography, from early hits like "Breathe" to recent releases, creating memorable moments with fans through special stages and encores.[67] Concert footage was later shared via official channels, capturing the event's high energy.[119]
Awards and nominations
Music program wins
AB6IX has secured a total of 8 wins on Korean music programs as of November 2025, primarily on cable channels such as The Show and Show Champion.[120] These victories highlight the group's strong performance in the early stages of their career, with their debut single "Breathe" marking their entry into the competitive music show landscape shortly after release in May 2019. Subsequent promotions for "Blind for Love" yielded their highest number of wins, demonstrating peak popularity in late 2019. The group has yet to claim victories on major broadcast programs like Music Bank or Inkigayo, focusing instead on consistent showings in digital and cable formats.[35]The following table summarizes AB6IX's music program wins, including the song, number of wins, specific shows, and episode dates where available:
Song
Release Year
Number of Wins
Shows and Dates
Breathe
2019
2
The Show (June 4, 2019); Show Champion (June 5, 2019)[121][122]
Blind for Love
2019
4
The Show (October 15, 2019); Show Champion (October 16, 2019); M Countdown (October 17, 2019); The Show (October 22, 2019)[123][124][125][126]
The Answer
2020
1
The Show (July 7, 2020)[127]
Loser
2023
1
The Show (June 6, 2023)[37]
Music program wins in Korea are determined by a combination of factors, including digital sales, streaming data, album sales, and viewer votes, varying by show—for instance, The Show emphasizes digital metrics and fan votes, while M Countdown incorporates a points system from multiple platforms.[128] AB6IX's achievements reflect their appeal in these criteria during promotional periods for the listed singles from their discography.
Year-end awards
AB6IX has garnered recognition at several prominent year-end award ceremonies in the K-pop industry, particularly during their debut year and the following period, highlighting their impact as rising artists.At the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), AB6IX received a nomination for Best New Male Artist, acknowledging their strong entry into the scene with debut releases like "Breathe" and "Blind for Love."[129]The group secured their first year-end win at the 2019 Melon Music Awards with the Hot Trend Award, which celebrates trending artists based on online buzz and popularity metrics.[130]In 2020, AB6IX continued their momentum by winning the Next Generation Artist Award at the 34th Golden Disc Awards, an honor shared with Kim Jae Hwan and ATEEZ and recognizing promising talents in physical and digital sales performance.[131]They also claimed the New Artist Award (Male) at the 29th Seoul Music Awards, selected through a combination of expert judging and fan voting for outstanding rookie achievements.[132]AB6IX received Bonsang awards—main prizes for top artists—at the Soribada Best K-Music Awards in both 2019 and 2020, reflecting consistent streaming and sales success across their early discography.[133][134]