TUIDE has been named Billboard’s K-Pop Up & Comer of the Month for September, highlighting the rookie girl group’s early rise following its debut in August. The seven-member act is Billboard’s latest spotlighted emerging K-pop group, with the feature accompanied by an exclusive photo shoot.
The group made its official debut on Aug. 24 with its first EP, TUNE & PLAY, through ABD, a new label under HYBE. TUIDE consists of Seohee, Seoyeon, Elena, Jia, Saki, Seah and Yi Hani, with members from South Korea, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom.
TUNE & PLAY introduced TUIDE with “SUN KISS” as its title track. The group has described its musical identity through a blend of R&B and electronic influences, with Billboard’s feature noting the members’ description of their sound as “Soultronic.”
Since the release, TUIDE has continued promoting “SUN KISS” through music programs, radio appearances and variety content in South Korea. A Sept. 17 report noted the group’s growing activities across television and radio while highlighting its live performances and individual personalities.
The group has also begun meeting fans through events tied to its debut release. TUIDE held its first offline fan party in Seoul on Sept. 19, featuring behind-the-scenes stories about TUNE & PLAY, games and individual photo sessions with the members.
TUIDE’s early chart activity has also added to its September momentum. Billboard’s latest chart rankings reported the group at No. 1 on the Emerging Artists chart, while TUNE & PLAY reached No. 3 on the World Albums chart.
The Billboard recognition arrives just weeks after the group’s debut and adds to a growing series of appearances and promotional activities surrounding its first EP. The exclusive photo feature presents the seven members during their first promotional era as they continue establishing TUIDE’s identity in the K-pop scene.
