ZICO continues to expand his activities in Japan: a range of undertakings from Music Station to DUET

According to a media outlet, ZICO is steadily expanding his influence in the Japanese music scene. At the recently aired Music Station SUPER LIVE 2025, he unveiled his new song DUET, further strengthening his connection with local fans. DUET was performed on stage in collaboration with the Japanese musician Lilas (Ikura of Yoasobi), and the two artists’ outstanding vocal prowess and chemistry were highlighted. The performance drew positive responses from local fans as well as local media.

This year, ZICO has pursued a variety of activities in Japan, achieving a musical expansion that crosses borders. First, he participated in the 25th anniversary series loves by the artist m-flo, releasing the collaborative track EKO EKO. Also on December 19, he released the single DUET with Lilas, continuing their tight collaborative relationship. These activities have solidified his musical position in Japan.

In the fashion field, ZICO's presence is pronounced. He was selected as a campaign model for the global denim brand GUESS JEANS in Japan, broadening his engagement with the Japanese fashion scene. His involvement in the brand's local marketing at the intersection of fashion and music is cited as an example of ZICO's versatile career.

Concerts and live activities also continue. On February 7 next year, in Tokyo, he will hold his first solo concert in eight years, titled 2026 ZICO LIVE: TOKYO DRIVE. Given the positive responses to his summer and autumn performances, expectations for the Tokyo show are high. Also in August, at the large music festival a-nation 2025, he delivered a powerful stage, proving his recognition and popularity locally.

Even amid the year-end festival season, ZICO's activity stands out. After winning Best Producer at the Melon Music Awards 2025, he performed on stage with DUET to strong reception from local fans. DUET has since climbed on domestic music charts and drew attention as a global single; in the same year, on Korea YouTube's daily top songs chart, it reached No. 1 the next day, the 21st, and remained at the top until 10 a.m. on the 27th. It also rose to No. 6 on Spotify Korea's Daily Top Songs chart, confirming steady interest on domestic charts.

Meanwhile, the multi-layered aspect of ZICO's Japan activities extends beyond fashion and concerts to collaborations across the entertainment industry. ZICO's activities in Japan have drawn attention from local media, and further promotions for DUET or special projects for Japanese fans are likely to follow. This multi-faceted approach across various areas signals that ZICO is expanding his musical identity on the international stage.