ASEA 2026 lineup poster highlights WONHO, Kwon Eunbi, and VVUP ahead of the May event at Belluna Dome. (Photo / ASEA Organizing Comnittee )
WONHO, Kwon Eunbi, and VVUP Confirmed for ASEA 2026
Soloists Lee Ho-seok (WONHO), Kwon Eun-bi, and rookie girl group VVUP are set to perform at the upcoming “Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2026” (ASEA 2026), organizers announced last week.
The event will take place over two days, May 16 and 17, at the Belluna Dome in Saitama, Japan, bringing together top-tier artists from across Asia for a large-scale music festival and awards ceremony.
Organizers Confirm Expanding Global Lineup
The organizing committee stated that ASEA 2026 will feature a wide range of leading artists who have made significant achievements over the past year.
In addition to WONHO, Kwon Eunbi, and VVUP, confirmed performers include ATEEZ, ENHYPEN, &TEAM, Hearts2Hearts, IDID and xikers, among others.
The first day of the event will be hosted by Chae Hyung-won and Rei, while Lee Jun-ho and Go Youn-jung are also set to appear, further enhancing the event’s global appeal.
WONHO to Showcase Global Touring Momentum
WONHO, who debuted in 2015, has maintained a strong international presence through both music releases and live performances. His first full-length album SYNDROME, released in October last year, received positive responses from global fans.
He also successfully completed his second world tour “STAY AWAKE,” which spanned multiple regions including Latin America, Europe, and Japan. Known for his powerful live vocals and dynamic stage presence, WONHO is scheduled to perform on May 17.
Kwon Eunbi Continues Rise as ‘Performance Queen’
Kwon Eunbi first gained recognition through Mnet’s Produce 48 before debuting as the leader of IZ*ONE. Following the group’s disbandment, she launched her solo career in 2021 with the mini album OPEN.
Her track “Underwater” from Lethality experienced a notable chart resurgence, solidifying her reputation as a leading solo performer. She has also garnered attention for her performances at the Waterbomb festival, earning nicknames such as “Performance Queen” and “Waterbomb Goddess.”
Kwon Eunbi is set to take the stage on the second day of ASEA 2026, May 17.
VVUP Builds Global Momentum as Rookie Group
VVUP, consisting of members Kim, Pan, Suyeon, and Jiyoon, debuted in 2024 with the single “Doo Doom Chit.” The group has since released a series of tracks, including “4 Life,” “Giddy Boy,” and “House Party,” culminating in their first mini album VVON.
The album achieved notable success on international charts, reaching No. 1 on iTunes R&B/Soul album charts in Indonesia and Thailand. It also ranked across multiple global markets, including Russia, France, the United Kingdom, and Japan.
As a rising act with growing global recognition, VVUP will perform on May 16, the first day of the event.
About ASEA: A Growing Global Awards Platform
Launched in 2024, ASEA has quickly established itself as a major music awards event that celebrates influential artists across Asia and beyond. The ceremony combines awards presentations with high-quality live performances, attracting a global audience.
This year’s event is co-hosted by South Korean media outlet Newsen and magazine @style, marking their 21st and 14th anniversaries, respectively.
Industry Context: Expanding Global Awards Circuit
The increasing scale of events like ASEA reflects the continued globalization of K-pop and Asian pop music. Major award shows are evolving into international platforms that not only recognize achievements but also serve as key promotional stages for artists.
Industry experts note that participation in such events can significantly boost global visibility, particularly for emerging acts like VVUP.
Future Outlook
With a diverse lineup spanning established soloists and rising groups, ASEA 2026 is expected to deliver high-impact performances and further solidify its position in the global music awards landscape.
Additional details, including award categories and evaluation criteria, will be announced through the event’s official channels. Ticket sales began on April 16.
David Kim is a senior author at KpopBreaking, focusing on major K-pop events, industry trends, and global entertainment news. He has experience covering large-scale concerts and international promotions.
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