If you follow fourth-generation K-pop, you have likely heard the name Maki. Born as Hirota Riki Maus, this Korean-based Japanese singer has captured global fans with his clear vocals, charming visuals, and powerful stage presence.
As a key member of &TEAM, Maki continues to rise as one of the most promising young idols in the industry.
In this detailed biography, you will discover Maki’s real name, age, early life, career journey, personality, and future plans.
Maki Profile Summary
| Full Name | Hirota Riki Maus |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Maki |
| Date of Birth | February 17, 2006 |
| Age | 20 years (as of 2026) |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Profession | Singer |
| Group | &TEAM |
| Position | Vocalist |
| Agency | HYBE Labels Japan |
| Debut Year | 2022 |
Who Is Maki?
Maki is a Japanese singer active in the Korean music industry. He gained fame as the youngest member (maknae) of &TEAM, a global boy group formed under HYBE Labels Japan.
Fans admire him for his stable live vocals, expressive eyes, and natural charisma on stage. Despite his young age, he shows maturity and professionalism beyond his years.
Early Life and Background
Hirota Riki Maus was born on February 17, 2006, in Japan. He comes from a multicultural background, which shaped his open-minded personality and global appeal.
From a young age, Maki showed strong interest in music and performing arts.
He loved singing and participated in school performances. His family supported his artistic dreams, encouraging him to develop his talent.
Growing up, he listened to various music genres, including pop and R&B. These influences helped him build a strong foundation in vocal control and emotional expression.
Related Post : Gong Yoo Biography
Journey to Stardom
Survival Show Breakthrough
Maki’s career took a major turn when he joined the reality survival program &AUDITION – The Howling. The show aimed to create a new global boy group under HYBE.
During the competition, Maki impressed viewers with:
- Clear and emotional vocal tone
- Consistent live singing
- Hard-working attitude
- Positive team spirit
He quickly became a fan favorite. His dedication and growth throughout the program proved that he had true idol potential.
After weeks of intense training and performances, Maki successfully secured a spot in the final lineup of &TEAM.
Debut With &TEAM
Maki officially debuted in December 2022 as a member of &TEAM.
The group launched with strong support from global fans and quickly gained attention in both Japan and Korea. Their debut marked the beginning of Maki’s professional music career.
As one of the main vocal strengths in the group, Maki plays a vital role in delivering emotional high notes and stable harmonies.
Musical Style and Strengths
Maki stands out for several reasons:
1. Strong Vocal Ability
His voice carries clarity and warmth. He controls pitch well and maintains stability even during intense choreography.
2. Emotional Expression
He connects with lyrics deeply. Whether performing a ballad or upbeat track, he conveys genuine emotion.
3. Stage Presence
Despite being one of the younger members, he commands attention with confident movements and expressive facial reactions.
4. Continuous Improvement
Maki trains consistently. Fans often notice how much he improves with every comeback.
Personality and Image
Fans describe Maki as:
- Bright and cheerful
- Respectful toward seniors
- Playful with members
- Hard-working behind the scenes
As the maknae, he often shows a cute and lovable side. However, on stage, he transforms into a powerful performer.
His duality innocent off stage and charismatic on stage makes him even more appealing to fans worldwide.
Relationship With &TEAM Members
Maki shares close bonds with his fellow members in &TEAM.
The group promotes teamwork and unity, and Maki actively contributes to the positive group dynamic.
Older members often guide him, while he brings youthful energy and humor to the team. Their strong chemistry reflects in their synchronized performances and behind-the-scenes content.
Achievements and Recognition
Although still early in his career, Maki has already achieved:
- Successful group debut
- Strong album sales
- Growing international fanbase
- Millions of streaming views
With HYBE’s global influence, &TEAM continues to expand into international markets. Maki’s popularity rises alongside the group’s growth.
Maki’s Influence in the Fourth Generation of K-Pop
Fourth-generation idols focus heavily on performance quality, global communication, and digital presence. Maki fits perfectly into this era.
He represents:
- Cross-cultural appeal
- Youthful ambition
- Global idol standards
His Japanese background also strengthens &TEAM’s presence in the Japanese music market while maintaining connection with Korean audiences.
Social Media Presence
Maki stays connected with fans through official group social media platforms. He shares:
- Behind-the-scenes photos
- Practice room clips
- Fan messages
- Special event updates
His interactions feel genuine and warm. Fans appreciate his humble tone and gratitude.
Future Plans and Career Outlook
Maki’s career is just beginning. With strong agency support and a rapidly expanding fanbase, his future looks promising.
Potential future developments may include:
- Solo music projects
- OST participation
- Acting opportunities
- Global tours
Given his vocal strength and charming personality, he has the potential to become a leading figure in the next generation of K-pop idols.
Lesser-Known Facts About Maki
Here are some interesting details about him:
- He trained intensely before debuting.
- He adapts quickly to Korean language and culture.
- He values teamwork over individual spotlight.
- He often practices vocals late into the night.
These habits show his strong work ethic and commitment to success.
Also Read This About Teo Yoo – Age, Wife, Dramas, Net Worth & Untold Facts
Why Fans Love Maki
Fans admire Maki because he feels authentic. He does not pretend to be someone else. He embraces growth, accepts feedback, and shows gratitude toward supporters.
His journey from a hopeful trainee to a debut idol inspires many young dreamers. He proves that dedication and persistence lead to real results.
People Also Ask About Maki (&TEAM)
1. What is Maki’s real name in &TEAM?
Maki’s real name is Hirota Riki Maus. He uses “Maki” as his stage name while promoting as a member of &TEAM under HYBE Labels Japan.
2. Is Maki fluent in English?
Yes, Maki speaks English very well. He comes from a multicultural background and often communicates confidently in English during interviews and fan interactions. His pronunciation and natural tone impress many international fans.
3. Is Maki from &TEAM mixed?
Yes, Maki is mixed. He has a multicultural background, which contributes to his global appeal and strong English skills. His diverse heritage makes him stand out among fourth-generation K-pop idols.
The Road Ahead for Maki
Maki, born Hirota Riki Maus, represents the new wave of global K-pop talent. As a vocalist of &TEAM under HYBE Labels Japan, he continues to grow as an artist and performer.
With powerful vocals, strong discipline, and genuine charm, Maki has already secured his place in the industry. Yet, this is only the beginning. His journey promises even greater achievements in the coming years.
If you follow fourth-generation idols, Maki is definitely a name to watch.