[Exclusive] “Performing ‘Maniac’ in front of Stray Kids was so nerve-wracking!” Kickflip Recalls Thrilling KGMA Memories

With their unique “Kick-ral” (Kickflip-style cheerfulness) charm, the group Kickflip, who have emerged as a center of 5th generation K-pop boy groups, looked back on their thrilling memories of “2025 KGMA.”

Ilgan Sports met with Kickflip on the 7th, following the successful promotions for “I Want to Be an Eyesore,” the title track of their 4th mini album “My First Kick.” They shared their thoughts on completing their first album activities of the year and various stories about “2025 KGMA,” which served as a turning point for the team’s resurgence.

Kickflip achieved their goal of winning a rookie award in their debut year by taking home the IS Rising Star Award at the “2025 Korea Grand Music Awards with iM Bank (2025 KGMA)” Music Day, held on November 15 last year at the Inspire Arena in Incheon. Juwang beamed, saying, “The day of the awards ceremony was actually Kickflip’s 300th day since debut, so receiving the award that day made it even more meaningful. It makes me want to return and show an even better performance next time.”

Donghyun shared, “The performance of ‘A Song I’m Singing for the First Time’ is memorable. It was our first time using a lift to go up together, so I was very nervous and a bit scared during preparation, but I remember it because the stage was so beautiful.”

He added, “The stage started with Gyehoon-hyung’s solo dance. Even during practice, I thought, ‘Finally, we get to show off hyung’s dancing,’ and I remember wanting to quickly show everyone his dance to that overwhelming and touching song.”

The cover performance of “Maniac,” performed right in front of the original artists Stray Kids, was another unforgettable moment. Minje recalled, “I’ve covered Stray Kids sunbaenims’ songs before, but I was more nervous than ever because the sunbaenims were watching us directly from the front. However, it was so cool and I was so grateful that they stood up from their seats to cheer us on.”

Gyehoon also said, “It was such an honor to attend KGMA with NEXZ and Stray Kids sunbaenims. We took a group photo at the end, and I could really feel the JYP family ship. It’s not easy to gather in one place like this, so I was happy and it was truly meaningful that we could be together thanks to KGMA.”

From a long trainee period to their debut, it was a time of uncertainty and a battle with oneself. Gyehoon, the longest-serving trainee in the team, stated, “I spent a long time as a trainee, but since everything starts from zero again the moment you debut, you have to start from the same line and grow through healthy competition. Now, a year later, although there are still areas where I’m lacking, I can proudly say I’ve grown compared to my debut days. I want to improve those parts and greet everyone again at KGMA with an even more polished look.”

Their goals for their activities were clear and vivid. K-Ju said firmly, “In the year and a half of promoting, the happiest times were definitely when performing in front of fans. I’ll run toward any opportunity to stand on stage, whether it’s an awards ceremony or a festival.” Donghwa’s eyes sparkled as he added, “As long as I can stand on stage, that’s when I’m in my promotion period.” Juwang added, “Beyond the stage, I’ll continue to be ‘an eyesore’ by showing our individuality and the members’ human charms through various content.”