Photo Credits: MAPS Japan. LeanBranding
A fresh wave is sweeping through the K-pop scene with the debut of KIIRAS, a six-member girl group launched by LeanBranding on May 29, 2025. This group stands out not only for its dynamic blend of talent but also for its multinational composition, featuring members from South Korea, Japan, and Malaysia. The name KIIRAS merges the Korean word “Ki,” meaning energy, with the English word “Rascal,” reflecting the group’s spirited and mischievous charm aimed at making a memorable mark on the global K-pop stage.
The members of KIIRAS bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences that enrich their collective identity. Lingling, the Malaysian leader, is a notable figure as the first Malaysian female K-pop idol. Her journey includes training under major entertainment companies and competing on the survival show I-LAND 2, which helped her gain recognition before joining LeanBranding. The Korean members Harin and Kylie, along with Japanese main vocalist Kurumi, add to the group’s vibrant mix. Harin was selected through a nationwide audition, Kylie brings a carefree rap style, and Kurumi, trained in Japan, is known for her doll-like appearance and emotional ballads. The youngest members, Doyeon and Roah, also contribute unique talents; Doyeon was a child actress, while Roah has roots in traditional Korean gugak music and has appeared in various media, bridging traditional and modern Korean culture.
KIIRAS’s debut single, “Kill Ma Bo$$,” produced by the accomplished singer-songwriter and producer Saay, promises a fresh sound that blends R&B and pop influences, aiming to captivate audiences on music shows like Mnet’s M Countdown. Saay’s involvement, known for her work with prominent acts like EXO’s Baekhyun and aespa, adds a layer of credibility and anticipation to the group’s musical journey.
In parallel with KIIRAS’s rise, MAPS Korea magazine continues to solidify its position as a beloved publication among K-pop fans and artists alike. Established as a platform that showcases the latest trends and personalities in Korean pop culture, MAPS Korea has become a go-to source for exclusive pictorials and in-depth features. Its 2025 Fall Issue Vol.195, which previews KIIRAS, exemplifies the magazine’s commitment to spotlighting emerging talents alongside established stars. The magazine’s popularity is fueled by its high-quality photography, thoughtful interviews, and its ability to capture the essence of K-pop’s evolving landscape, making it a favorite among fans who crave a closer connection to their idols.
The synergy between KIIRAS and MAPS Korea highlights the vibrant ecosystem supporting K-pop’s global expansion. As KIIRAS embarks on their debut, they not only represent a new generation of idols but also the growing international appeal of K-pop, which continues to captivate audiences worldwide through innovative music, diverse talent, and engaging media like MAPS Korea. This collaboration marks a promising chapter for both the group and the magazine, reflecting the dynamic energy and cultural fusion that define contemporary K-pop.
Photography by Jang Jinwook @_jangjinwook
Produced by Park Minjeong @mjpxrk_
Styling Seo Minwoo @minu.west
Hair kim Yeseul @kiimyeseul
Make-up Jung Yoonsun @yoondol_ys
Models Lingling, Kurumi, Harin, Kylie, Doyeon, Roah of KIIRAS @kiiras__official
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