Meet ALPHA DRIVE ONE: The BOYS II PLANET Group Taking the Baton from ZEROBASEONE
Get to know ALPHA DRIVE ONE (ALD1), the new 8-member global boy group from Mnet's 'BOYS II PLANET.' Here's everything we know about their 2026 debut and their connection to ZEROBASEONE.
The K-pop world is buzzing with the arrival of a new powerhouse. Meet ALPHA DRIVE ONE (ALD1), the highly anticipated 8-member boy group formed from Mnet’s survival show, BOYS II PLANET. As ZEROBASEONE (ZB1), the winners of the first season, approach the end of their contract, all eyes are on ALD1 to carry the torch forward into the next generation of K-pop.
Who is ALPHA DRIVE ONE (ALD1)?
ALPHA DRIVE ONE is a multinational group managed by WAKEONE, consisting of eight members who captured the hearts of global fans during BOYS II PLANET. The name itself signifies their ambition: ALPHA for their goal to be the best, DRIVE for their relentless passion, and ONE for their unity as a team.
The final lineup is a testament to their global appeal, featuring a diverse mix of talent:
- Korean Members: Kim Junseo, Lee Sangwon, Kim Geonwoo, Jeong Sanghyeon
- Chinese Members: Zhang Jiahao, He Xinlong, Zhou Anxin
- Korean-Australian Member: Lee Rio
This international blend, chosen by a staggering 26 million global votes, positions ALD1 as a group built for the world stage from day one.
The “Baton Touch”: A New Era After ZEROBASEONE
In the fast-paced world of K-pop, the term “Baton Touch” (배턴 터치) is gaining traction, and ALPHA DRIVE ONE is at the center of it. ZEROBASEONE, who debuted from Boys Planet in 2023, have a 2.5-year contract set to expire in January 2026. ALD1 is slated for their official debut in early 2026, perfectly timed to inherit the momentum and continue WAKEONE’s legacy.
This strategic transition is a hot topic among Korean fans, who see ALD1 not just as a new group, but as the next chapter in a story started by ZB1. They are widely expected to become a “Monster Rookie” (괴물 신인), a term for a new group that achieves immense success right out of the gate.
What to Expect Before Their 2026 Debut
While their official debut album and promotions are set for 2026, ALPHA DRIVE ONE is not waiting to connect with their fans. The group is already active on social media, rapidly building a global fanbase. With a 5-year contract for global activities, fans can expect a steady stream of content as the members prepare to take the K-pop world by storm.
The excitement is palpable. ALPHA DRIVE ONE isn’t just another debut; it’s the dawn of a new era for 5th generation K-pop.
Key Korean Terms for Global Fans
- 보이즈 2 플래닛 (Boijeu Tu Peullaenit): Boys II Planet. The name of the Mnet survival show that formed ALPHA DRIVE ONE.
- 배턴 터치 (Baeteon Teochi): Baton Touch. A phrase used to describe one group passing its success and momentum to a successor, much like in a relay race.
- 괴물 신인 (Goemul Sin-in): Monster Rookie. A title given to a new K-pop group that debuts with explosive popularity and success.
- 다국적 그룹 (Dagukjeok Geurup): Multinational Group. Refers to a group with members from various countries, a growing trend in K-pop.
- 정식 데뷔 (Jeongsik Debi): Official Debut. The formal launch of a group’s career, which includes releasing their first album and starting official promotions.