MONSTA X’s Hyungwon will return as MC for ASEA 2026, taking on hosting duties at the Asia Star Entertainer Awards for the second consecutive year.

According to the ASEA organizing committee, Hyungwon will serve as MC on the first day of the event, held on May 16 and 17 at Belluna Dome in Saitama, Japan.

ASEA brings together leading artists from across Asia, and Hyungwon’s return follows his role as MC in ASEA 2025, where he was praised for his steady hosting, sharp timing, and natural stage presence. During last year’s show, he also connected with the audience through Japanese commentary, helping lift the atmosphere throughout the event.

For ASEA 2026, Hyungwon is expected to bring even stronger chemistry with artists on site, along with smoother interaction and a more engaging flow for global viewers.

Through his agency Starship Entertainment, Hyungwon shared that he is grateful to return as MC again this year. He reflected on last year’s experience as a meaningful source of motivation and said he will do his best to deliver an even better performance.

Beyond hosting, Hyungwon continues his activities as part of MONSTA X and the unit Shownu X Hyungwon, while also working across producing, DJing, variety shows, and performance stages.

He is currently on the 2026 MONSTA X WORLD TOUR [THE X : NEXUS], with stops including Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Jakarta, and Japan. He is also preparing for the upcoming release of Shownu X Hyungwon’s new album “LOVE ME” on May 21.

Hyungwon will meet fans again at ASEA 2026 on May 16 before stepping into his next comeback chapter.