ZEROBASEONE's Sung Han-bin Named First Global Ambassador for KCON

CJ ENM has announced the introduction of a global ambassador for its renowned K-Festival, 'KCON', which has been held since 2012.

ZEROBASEONE's Sung Han-bin has been selected as the first 'KCON Global Ambassador'. The role of the 'KCON Global Ambassador' is to serve as a guide and storyteller, promoting the identity and core values of 'KCON', a global platform that offers experiences in K-POP, K-beauty, K-food, and K-content.

Sung Han-bin debuted in 2023 after finishing second on Mnet's 'Boys Planet'. He has since showcased his presence as an MC on various Mnet programs such as 'M Countdown' and 'World of Street Woman Fighter (WSWF)', earning the nickname 'Mnet's Son' among fans. Mnet is a leading music channel under CJ ENM.

As the face of KCON this year, Sung Han-bin will participate in 'KCON JAPAN 2026' from May 8 to 10 in Chiba, Japan, and 'KCON LA 2026' from August 14 to 16 in Los Angeles, USA. He is set to highlight the diverse appeal of the 'KCON' festival to global K-POP fans and artists. Given his stable hosting skills demonstrated in various programs and award ceremonies, his performance as an ambassador is highly anticipated.

ZEROBASEONE has also been added to the artist lineup for 'KCON JAPAN 2026'. The group is the first in K-POP history to achieve 'million-seller' status with six consecutive albums and the first 5th generation group to surpass 9 million in cumulative album sales. With ZEROBASEONE joining, 'KCON JAPAN 2026' promises to offer a rich spectrum of K-POP artists, providing fans worldwide with an enriched performance and unique experience.

CJ ENM plans to expand the program for 'KCON 2026' to deliver an evolved 'K-experience' and convey the vibrant energy unique to KCON. By incorporating diverse stages and distinctive participatory content that reflect the voices of global fandoms, KCON aims to create unforgettable experiences for its audience.

Sung Han-bin, the first ambassador of KCON, expressed his gratitude, stating, "KCON was one of the turning points in my life where ZEROBASEONE first presented a stage to global fans. I am thankful to be the first ambassador of KCON, where ZEROBASEONE announced its birth. I will do my best to create another page of memories by sharing and experiencing Korean culture and global trends beyond generations and preferences."

Since its inception in Irvine, USA, in 2012, KCON has established a festival model encompassing music, K-beauty, K-food, and K-content across various regions. It has been held in 14 regions worldwide, including Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, with an offline cumulative audience of nearly 2.23 million. Through digital platforms, millions of global fans have formed a strong fandom beyond language and borders, solidifying its position as a global K-POP festival that aids artists' global expansion and brands' overseas ventures.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr