ZEROBASEONE Returns with Maturity and Ambition in First Full Album 'NEVER SAY NEVER'

ZEROBASEONE has returned with a more mature image. As their contract expiration approaches early next year, the group remained tight-lipped about potential renewals with their current agency.

ZEROBASEONE (Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-bin, Park Gun-wook, Han Yu-jin) held a media showcase on the 1st at the Blue Square SOL Travel Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their first full album, 'NEVER SAY NEVER.'

'NEVER SAY NEVER' marks ZEROBASEONE's first full album in two years since their debut. The members expressed their unique sentiments about this milestone. Sung Han-bin shared, "We've encapsulated the experiences we've gained over the past two years," while Kim Tae-rae added, "This album is significant as it encapsulates the growth narrative of all nine members since the team's formation." Kim Gyu-bin reflected, "Preparing for our first full album made me think about the journey from debut to now, and I realized how much I've grown."

The title track 'Iconic' is a pop track based on a new disco sound, conveying the message that "regardless of others' evaluations, we can become iconic on our own." Zhang Hao commented on the title track, "I felt a strong energy from the song when I first heard it. I was confident it would showcase our unique color. Through 'Iconic,' we want to show our growth from boys to artists."

The new album features 10 tracks of various genres, with contributions from renowned producers both domestically and internationally, led by composer KENZIE. The members collectively hinted at a more mature ZEROBASEONE. Youngest member Han Yu-jin stated, "We aimed to show a mature and superstar-like image." Kim Ji-woong added, "We will showcase a more mature side not only in music and performance but also in the teamwork created by all nine members." Park Gun-wook highlighted the track 'Lovesick Game,' noting, "The choreography using chairs is a highlight. We can show a mature side."

On the topic of contract expiration, leader Sung Han-bin stated, "We are discussing the best direction. Nothing is confirmed yet. Our priority is to present this full album well." Han Yu-jin added, "We are keeping all possibilities open and having many discussions together. We hope to make the choice that fans and the public want most, but nothing is decided yet."

Park Gun-wook expressed, "I want to emphasize that all nine members cherish ZEROBASEONE. Although we are currently connected as a team, we have a strong personal bond, so you will continue to see us laughing and chatting together."

The members also showed pride in their team. Park Gun-wook stated, "It might be a bit much to say ourselves, but we've won several rookie awards and achieved good results at various award ceremonies. The most important thing is to always aim upwards. With this album, we aim to soar higher as ZEROBASEONE."

Sung Han-bin reflected, "Every day since debut has been a new experience and a valuable asset. Being on the 'Billboard 200' chart was the most 'iconic' moment." Kim Gyu-bin added, "When we first heard that our mini 5th album ranked 28th on the 'Billboard 200,' we were surprised and grateful. We hope to achieve a career high with our first full album."

ZEROBASEONE's first full album 'NEVER SAY NEVER' will be released at 6 PM today.

Reporter Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr