Rising K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR will make a comeback to the Philippines this September as the main act at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship opening ceremony.
This is the first time a K-pop artist has received an invitation to play at the occasion, which is scheduled for September 12 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
K-pop and volleyball
With 32 competing teams, including the nation's own Alas Pilipinas men's team, the Philippines has been selected to host the 2025 global tournament.
"We have carefully reviewed and decided on the selection of BOYNEXTDOOR, as a truly pivotal move in elevating the global profile of volleyball and igniting excitement for the event," said Ramon "Tats" Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and Asian Volleyball Confederation.
"With the championship proudly hosted in the Philippines, this partnership presents an incredible opportunity to engage fans across the world, with the BOYNEXTDOOR’s unique appeal and dynamic global influence to attract a wider and more diverse audience profile," he added.
Suzara is also the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball's (FIVB) executive vice president.
BOYNEXTDOOR’s appeal
BOYNEXTDOOR, which is made up of Jaehyun, Sungho, Riwoo, Taesan, Leehan, and Woonhak, made its debut in May 2023 under the HYBE sub-label KOZ Entertainment, which is run by producer and rapper Zico.
Thanks to a string of lively and catchy tunes, the group has become extremely successful since their debut. They became a "million-seller" in 2024 when their extended play, "19.99," sold more than a million copies.
