Mnet's 'BOYS II PLANET' Unveils Debut Group 'Alpha Drive One' Amidst Buzz

The final debut group name 'Alpha Drive One' from Mnet's 'BOYS II PLANET' has sparked a wave of reactions.

On the episode aired on the 25th, the new boy group 'ALPHA DRIVE ONE' was formed, with the final lineup including Lee Sangwon, Zhou An Xin, He Xin Long, Kim Geonwoo, Zhang Jia Hao, Lee Leo, Chung Sanghyeon, and Kim Junseo.

The group name, revealed during the live broadcast, signifies a team with the goal, passion, and drive to become the best. It was emphasized that the abbreviation is 'ALDI ONE' rather than 'Alpha One'. As the official group from 'BOYS II PLANET', global fans are eagerly anticipating their growth and leap onto the world stage.

The announcement captured the reactions of the participants, with Lee Seok-hoon's candid response as a Planet Master becoming a hot topic on social media. Netizens commented, "It was a straightforward reaction," and "It's better because it's unpretentious." Host Kim Jaejoong inadvertently referred to the group as 'Alpha Dragon' instead of 'Alpha Drive One', leading viewers to react humorously, saying, "It came out naturally," and "Alpha Dragon rolls off the tongue better."

Previously, the debut group Zerobaseone (abbreviated as 'ZB1') from 'Boys Planet' two years ago also faced initial reactions of "awkward" and "confusing." However, as they continued their activities, the public grew accustomed to the name. In the case of 'Alpha Drive One', the longer name has led to similar sentiments of unfamiliarity.

On social media, reactions vary with comments like, "The names are getting more complex," "Will this name eventually become familiar too?", "It's an epic naming," and "It's unique, so it's memorable."

Lee Sojung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr