Photo Credits: Billboard UNCORE
Close Your Eyes has made a striking impact on the global K-pop scene, recently being honored by Billboard as the K-Pop Rookie of the Month for December 2025. The seven-member group, formed through the survival show “Project 7,” has rapidly developed a reputation for musical versatility and bold visual concepts, capturing both critical acclaim and a passionate fanbase in just their debut year.
Billboard’s Recognition
Billboard’s Rookie of the Month award highlights emerging acts that demonstrate exceptional promise and originality. Close Your Eyes earned this accolade thanks to their dynamic third EP, “blackout,” which marked a bold shift from their earlier “literary boys” concept to a more confident, charismatic style. Billboard praised the group for their ability to “break boundaries and reveal new sides,” noting their rapid evolution from soft, emotive beginnings to a more mature, edgy sound.
Fan Reactions and Quotes
Fans have responded enthusiastically to Close Your Eyes’ transformation and Billboard’s recognition. On social media, fans have called the group “the most refreshing rookies of the year” and praised their willingness to take risks and reinvent their image. One fan on Reddit wrote, “It’s amazing to see a group born from a survival show develop such a strong musical identity so quickly. They deserve every bit of this award.” Billboard’s official statement emphasized, “No one would have expected a K-pop group born from an idol audition program to develop such a clearly defined musical identity. Yet that is exactly the story of Close Your Eyes.”
Group’s Own Words
Members of Close Your Eyes have expressed pride in their growth. Seo Kyoung-bae shared, “We wanted to show that we can do anything without limitations,” highlighting their desire to break free from expectations. Jeon Min-wook added, “We’re a team that does the music we want, unbound by boundaries, and always takes on new challenges.” Their ambition is evident in both their lyrics and performances, with the lead track “X” blending smooth bass rhythms and sleek aesthetics, and “SOB” featuring bold confidence and collaboration with Grammy-winning DJ Imanbek.
Styling and Visual Impact
The group’s styling in the Billboard photos showcases their new direction: driver-inspired outfits and chic all-white visuals that exude sensuous confidence. These looks mark a clear departure from their debut era and reflect their growth as artists. Billboard’s exclusive photos capture the group’s charisma and ambition, with fans noting the “sleek, mature energy” in every frame.
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