NEXZ made a statement with their first arena tour, bringing 20,000 fans to Tokyo's Yoyogi National Gymnasium on May 30-31 for the opening shows of "NEXZ LIVE TOUR 2026 'Hellmate'." The performances marked several firsts for the JYP Entertainment group: their debut arena shows and their first time performing with a live band backing them.

The group—made up of Tomoya, Yu, Haru, So Geon, Seita, Hyui, and Yuki—opened with dramatic staging that fit the tour's "mischievous youth support squad" concept. Members emerged from a control booth at the back of the arena before launching into "Legacy" with the full band, immediately setting a high-energy tone.

Throughout the night, NEXZ leaned into the rock and darker arrangements that define their third Japanese EP "Hellmate." Standout moments included So Geon's solo dance story during "One Bite" and an emotional performance of new breakup track "Can't Hide." The group also debuted new live anthem "Hands Up, Yo!" and took the energy pop with "HYPEMAN," where they tossed signed balls to fans while performing "Keep on Moving."

Not everything stayed serious—the setlist balanced rock-heavy tracks like the title song "Hellmate" with pop moments and even collaborations. "Run With Me," written by Stray Kids' Han, became a crowd singalong that highlighted the bond between NEXZ and their fanbase. The group wrapped the main set with "Beat-Boxer" on a center stage transformed into a battle ring by lighting effects.

NEXZ performed 28 songs total, including Japanese versions of global debut tracks "Ride the Vibe" and "Mmchk." The group continues their arena tour with final shows at Osaka's Osaka Castle Hall on June 12-13.

Since debuting in May 2024 in South Korea and August 2024 in Japan, NEXZ has become JYP's first major boy group release in roughly six years following Stray Kids.