ZEROBASEONE (Sung Hanbin, Kim Jiwoong, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, and Park Gunwook) are set to release their 6th mini album, ‘Ascend-‘, on the 18th. The hyphen (-) in the album title ‘Ascend-‘ signifies that this is not the end, but rather a continuous connection. It symbolizes ZEROBASEONE’s ambition to keep climbing higher without stopping!
The title track ‘Top 5’ is a modern reinterpretation of 2000s dance pop, blending groovy hip-hop rhythms with sensible lyrics to showcase the group’s growth. In particular, the B-side track ‘Customize’ is drawing attention as Park Gunwook’s first self-composed song. By earning his first credit since debut, he has teased an expanded musical capability. The group plans to carve out their presence as a 5-member unit through aggressive promotions that break the mold, including a pre-released music video and a concert held before the official album launch.
Formed through Mnet’s ‘Boys Planet’ in 2023, ZEROBASEONE established themselves as a representative 5th generation group, enjoying explosive popularity throughout their activities. However, they faced the heartbreak of the full group being unable to continue after their 2 year and 6 month project contract ended. While four of the nine members returned to their original agencies, five members, including Sung Hanbin, signed contract renewals to protect the team.
Despite the changes, the fact that leader Sung Hanbin, who has stably led the team, remains at the center is a huge strength for the 5-member ZEROBASEONE. His proven leadership is expected to serve as the pillar that allows the team to move forward without wavering in this new environment. The process of finding a new charm unique to a 5-member lineup while maintaining their original color is expected to bring a fresh kind of joy to fans.
WakeOne emphasized that they will provide full support to ensure the 5-member system settles in stably. They also highlighted the continuity of the ZEROBASEONE brand, stating, “The musical legacy built by the nine members will continue to expand in various ways in the future.”
While change can sometimes bring fear, it also opens the door to new possibilities. Global K-pop fans are now focusing on the second chapter that ZEROBASEONE will write, armed with an even stronger bond.
