Close Your Eyes (Close Your Eyes) captivated the hearts of Billboard critics in the United States for the second consecutive year, solidifying their status as next-generation global artists.
Recently, U.S. music publication Billboard released the "2026 Best K-Pop Songs of 2026 So Far (25 Best K-Pop Songs of 2026 So Far)", and Close Your Eyes' "POSE," released on April 21, proudly made the list.
Billboard praised "POSE," saying, "It is a song that captures bold yet restrained propulsion based on the dynamic groove of baile funk." It added, "The seven members' diverse vocal tones sit organically on the beat while the sound never feels overcrowded," and lauded, "The varied colors and restrained sense of balance create the group's distinctive relaxed charm, allowing them to assert their presence clearly without overexerting themselves even in the fiercely competitive 2026 boy group market."
With this, Close Your Eyes has continued the rare achievement of consistently attracting Billboard's attention since their debut. Last year, their debut song "All the poems and novels inside me" was included in the "2025 Best K-Pop Songs of 2025 So Far," and their debut album "Eternalt (ETERNALT)" was consecutively selected for the "2025 Best K-Pop Albums 25," earning recognition for its outstanding musicality.
Billboard's affection for them does not end there. After being named a "Billboard K-Pop Rookie" in December last year, this year they achieved the feat of being selected as the sixth-ever "Billboard Korea Artist," following NewJeans, Blackpink Jeesoo, PLAVE, ATEEZ, and Charlie Puth, proving their solid standing in the global music market.
Riding strong growth with overwhelming support from music fans and critics worldwide, Close Your Eyes is currently on a global tour, passionately connecting with fans in each country. Building word of mouth with strong live skills and highly polished performances, they have erected the landmark achievement of "winning nine rookie awards," the most among male idols who debuted in 2025.
Having achieved significant global results and expanding onto the world stage immediately after their debut, attention is focused on what music and performances Close Your Eyes will use next to capture the eyes and ears of fans around the world.
[Photo] UNCORE
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