Why Did NOWADAYS Change Their Name to NOWZ?

NOWADAYS has undergone a major change since their debut last year. However, rebranding was not something fans expected, and some still can’t get their head around it. 

CUBE Entertainment’s rising boy group NOWADAYS will make their fresh start as NOWZ, over a year after their debut on April 2, 2024.

The surprise name change was announced on June 2, 2025, via a logo video and updated social media handles.

Cube Entertainment revealed through their social media channels that the group formerly known as NOWADAYS will now be rebranded as NOWZ. 

While CUBE has yet to release a formal statement, industry observers note the rebrand aligns with recent shifts in the agency’s approach. Notably, the label’s prominent K-pop act, (G)I-DLE, rebranded to i-dle last month. The girl group’s decision to change their name came as a huge surprise to fans. It’s a bold move that reflects their desire to break free from labels and expectations and adopt a more inclusive and creative approach to their music.

Similarly, the new name NOWZ, shorter and more stylized, may signal a refined musical direction or broader global appeal. This name change signals the group’s plans to refresh their image, try new creative ideas, and stand out in the K-pop world.

The name NOWZ holds a special meaning. It’s a blend of “NOW,” representing the present, and “Z,” which stands for endless possibilities and new beginnings, rather than an end. Made up of Hyeonbin, Yoon, Yeonwoo, Jinhyuk, and Siyoon, the group plans to clearly show their unique style through music and concepts that break from tradition.

NOWADAYS debuted with the single album Nowadays in April 2024, followed by digital singles like Rainy Day (2024 Remake Ver.), a tribute to label seniors BEAST. In addition to that, they released their second single album, Nowhere, and second digital single Let’s Get It last year.

After the rebrand, NOWZ is expected to make a comeback with a fresh concept and identity. 

In other news, NOWZ recently performed at the Weverse Con Festival and won the Hot Trend award at ASEA 2025.