Who are the fresh faces joining Inkigayo this year?
Which K-pop idols will bring new energy to the stage every Sunday?
And how will this new trio change the vibe of one of Korea’s most iconic music shows?
The wait is finally over—Inkigayo new MCs 2025 confirmed! SBS officially announced that TWS’s Shinyu and TEAM’s EJ will be joining IVE’s Leeseo as the latest MC lineup. The news has quickly sparked excitement across the K-pop community, with fans eager to see the chemistry between this new generation of hosts.
2. Who Are the New MCs?
IVE’s Leeseo
Currently MC of Inkigayo, Leeseo has conveyed a confident hosting style and charm as the MC of the show for over a year, establishing herself in that stability with the help of the stage. Now, joined by two new MC partners on stage, she is ready to convey an even more dynamic chemistry as an MC.
TWS’s Shinyu
Shinyu is a member of the 5th generation boy group TWS (Tours). He has already charmed fans as a special MC on Inkigayo. His quick instincts and ability to host live have already been undeniably impressive. Shinyu created a style of playfulness and quirkiness on the show and was dubbed “MC Alba Shinyu” through the spin-off content of Inkigayo.
&TEAM’s EJ (Uiju/Ui-ju)
EJ is the leader of &TEAM and they’ve also recently hit million-seller status in Japan and made a strong global fandom. With the official debut of the group in Korea and debut in October 2025 through Mnet’s produjt and agencies, EJ’s new role as MC on Inkigayo will bring even more bright energy, leadership and freshness to the stage, together with onstage chemistry as reigning MCs.
3. Spotlight on Shinyu (TWS)
Shinyu from TWS was no stranger to the Inkigayo stage. In 2024, he drew attention as a special MC, wowing fans with his sharp instincts and convincing demeanor during a live broadcast—rare for a rookie idol.
In addition to the main stage, Shinyu’s cute charisma was evident in Inkigayo’s web spin-off content, Snack Shop (Maejeomgayo) and he was even known on that series as “MC Alba Shinyu.” His eccentric charm and spiritedness made an impact on both viewers and the production team equally.
All everyone could talk about was how professional, prepared and inviting Shinyu was… it was a breath of fresh air. His return as an official MC in 2025 was one of the most talked about for Inkigayo.
4. Spotlight on EJ (Ui-ju, &TEAM Leader)
EJ, who also goes by the name Ui-ju, is stepping into the MC position with an already established reputation. As the leader of the group &TEAM, he has led the group to strong success in Japan with million-seller albums and a robust global fandom prior to their official Korean debut.
His arrival into the MC position with Inkigayo is significant, as it broadens his exposure to a larger Korean audience just before &TEAM’s domestic debut in October 2025.
EJ, who embodies leadership, bright energy, and strong stage presence is expected to bring another level of charisma to the show. The producers have stated EJ is very passionate and always brings a positive and vibrant energy, while fans enjoy getting to know a more personable and playful version of EJ when interacting with the audience each week.
5. Leeseo’s Continued Role (IVE)
Since 2023, Leeseo of IVE has held down the position of MC at Inkigayo, where she has given the show stable energy, poise, and charm. Over the last year and a half, she has been commentated on for her ability to deliver reliable, cool, and professional banter as a host – she has established herself as not just a K-pop idol, but as host in her own right.
Now with the addition of Shinyu and EJ, the engagement of the fans is about to be even more amplified as they expect to see Leeseo’s professional and steady energy balanced with the new and correct energy of the new MCs. Fans already foresee the new trio to create new chemistry, banter, and stage energy on the Sunday music show.
6. Production Team’s Statement
The production team of Inkigayo had high hopes for the new combination of MCs, calling Shinyu and EJ idols with “first love visuals,” and as those with the potential to grow into “next-generation leaders.” They believe that together with Leeseo they will create a new synergy and energy on the show.
The producers also noted for the fans that the trio’s different personalities and characters will make for a unique charm for viewers to appreciate, adding to the reason for fans to look forward to the trio’s chemistry and stage atmosphere from October.
7. Previous MCs & Transition
Prior to Shinyu and EJ’s entry, Moon Sung Hyun and Han Yu Jin of ZEROBASEONE hosted Inkigayo alongside Leeseo. Their playful chemistry and youthful energy kept the stage fresh and exciting for more than a year.
Yet with this new group, SBS is debuting a different kind of chemistry. Where the previous MC roster depended heavily on youthful and bright rookie energy, the Shinyu–EJ–Leeseo formation will depend on maturity and leadership with rookie chemistry. Fans are already curious how this new MC will differ from the previous MC group and how they will refresh the weekly music program.
8. Prestige of Being an Inkigayo MC
Acting as an MC for Inkigayo represents more than engaging a music program – it is a milestone achievement for K-pop idols. Many popular idols and actors have served as MCs on Inkigayo for example; Jisoo (BLACKPINK), Jaehyun (NCT), and Yeonjun (TXT) among many others, demonstrate this success not only in the music space but also as well-known personalities in the entertainment industry.
An MC role is also a great opportunity for idols to display their charisma, leadership, and relationship with fans live; often taking their popularity and credibility to a new level. For Shinyu, EJ, and Leeseo this opportunity is significant as they will increase their influence, train their MC skills, and leave a lasting impression on an iconic SBS show.
9. Fan Reactions & Social Buzz
Acting as an MC for Inkigayo represents more than engaging a music program – it is a milestone achievement for K-pop idols. Many popular idols and actors have served as MCs on Inkigayo for example; Jisoo (BLACKPINK), Jaehyun (NCT), and Yeonjun (TXT) among many others, demonstrate this success not only in the music space but also as well-known personalities in the entertainment industry.
An MC role is also a great opportunity for idols to display their charisma, leadership, and relationship with fans live; often taking their popularity and credibility to a new level. For Shinyu, EJ, and Leeseo this opportunity is significant as they will increase their influence, train their MC skills, and leave a lasting impression on an iconic SBS show.
Here are a few examples of comments from fan communities:
- “I’m excited to see live Shinyu’s distinct vibe!”
- “EJ’s going to bring the heat! He’s perfect for the new trio!”
- “Leeseo + new MCs = the perfect mix of fun and serious!”
With the buzz ramping up online, it looks like audiences are excited to see the new lineup premiere in October 2025, too.
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10. When & Where to Watch
Fans won’t have to wait long to see the Inkigayo October 2025 lineup finally shine as the new MCs! The much-liked SBS music show airs every Sunday at 3:20 PM KST in a live environment, featuring live performances, games, and idol interactions.
Starting in October 2025, the new MCs, Leeseo, Shinyu, and EJ, take over the MC duties and are ready to bring an energy and chemistry that you will not want to miss. The new MCs will be entertaining for all viewers viewing from Korea and online everywhere else
The new combination of hosting experience, rookie appeal, and young global fresh made MCs will create a spectacular chapter for Inkigayo. Make sure to mark down the time and date to view the new MCs!
11. Closing / Wrap-Up
Inkigayo’s new MCs for October 2025 create an ideal balance between experience, charm, and excitement. Leeseo maintains a reliable and charming presence, Shinyu brings a playful and charismatic personality with it being his first time as MC for a live broadcast, and EJ provides strong maturity and global attention.
Not only do fans have a fun and exciting chemistry between these MCs, but this also truly represents the new generation of K-pop idols moving from their careers as idols to the prestigious role of MC.
Fans will be able to see their personalities shine on the screen and feel the collective enthusiasm as they share the stage with the artists and interact with the audience.
Be sure to catch the premiere in October 2025! Watch the show, contribute to the discussion on multiple social media and see this trio of MC redefine Inkigayo Sunday with their individual and collective enthusiasms and stage presence.
The stage is set for not just another July Sunday, the energy in the audience will be intense–this is a moment you don’t want to miss!
