From Survival Show to K-Pop Stage: ALPHA DRIVE ONE's Galactic Journey
Photo: WAKEONE Entertainment
ALPHA DRIVE ONE (ALD1) is a K-Pop boy group formed after Mnet's survival show Boys II Planet, which concluded in September 2025. After several weeks of intense competition, the eight finalists were chosen not only for their vocal and performance skills, but also by a global fan vote, with over 26 million votes cast from more than 220 countries. The show's unique concept is based on two "planets,” one Korean and one Chinese, bringing together members from both countries, giving the group an international dimension from the very beginning.
Members’ Introductions
Lee Sangwon (이상원) - Center
Ranked first on Boys II Planet with the most votes.
Talents: Strong stage presence, versatile in singing and dancing.
Nationality: Korean.
Note: Former trainee of Trainee A.
Zhou Anxin (周安信 / 안신)
Second in the final ranking.
Young member with a vocal tone noted for its quality and style.
Former contestant of MAKE MATE 1.
Nationality: Chinese.
Speaks multiple languages and exudes strong energy on stage.
Heo Xinlong (허씬롱)
Third in the ranking.
Previous experience as a member of BOY STORY, giving him an advantage on stage.
Nationality: Chinese.
Kim Geonwoo (김건우)
Fourth place.
Independent trainee before Boys II Planet, known for his consistent performances and multilingualism.
Nationality: Korean.
He also plays the piano.
Zhang Jiahao (Arno, 张家豪 / 아르노)
Fifth in the final ranking.
A very good dancer, he stands out on stage with his fluid lines and charisma.
Former contestant on MAKE MATE 1.
Nationality: Chinese.
Lee Leo (이리오) - Leader
Sixth in the ranking.
Korean-Australian with solo experience before ALD1 (released a solo single).
Leader of the group, appreciated for his versatility and natural leadership.
Chung Sanghyeon (정상현) - Maknae (youngest member)
Ranked seventh.
Visually charming with strong dance and rap skills.
Nationality: Korean.
Kim Junseo (김준서)
Eighth and final member of the lineup.
More experienced member: formerly of 1THE9 and WEi before ALD1.
Nationality: Korean.
Brings enhanced maturity and expertise to the team.
OFFICIAL DEBUT IN JANUARY 2026
ALPHA DRIVE ONE officially debuted on January 12, 2026, with the release of their mini-album EUPHORIA, including several tracks such as the lead single "FREAK ALARM" and "FORMULA," which were previewed at major events like the MAMA Awards.
A LIGHTNING DEBUT
The success was immediate: according to Hanteo Chart, EUPHORIA sold over 1 million copies in just one day, placing ALPHA DRIVE ONE among the few K-Pop groups to reach this milestone in their debut.
The album EUPHORIA reflects the members' journey from their individual experiences to the group's cohesion. Some songs, reworked and rearranged from Boys II Planet performances, celebrate their growth and their strong unity after weeks of intense competition.
TRACKLIST DE L’ALBUM "EUPHORIA"
“FORMULA”
“Raw Flame”
“Chains”
“Never Benn 2 Heaven”
“Cinnamon Shake”
FREAK ALERT: THE NEW GENERATION ON ALERT
ALPHA DRIVE ONE's title track "FREAK ALARM" marks a true entry onto the K-Pop scene. The music video boasts a dark and futuristic aesthetic.
The outfits reinforce the group's identity and the dynamics of the performance: a mix of futuristic streetwear and monochromatic looks allows each member to stand out while affirming the group's unity. The outfit changes throughout the video add a touch of surprise, accentuating the explosive energy of the track and the impression that the group is giving it their all from the very first seconds.
The choreography is powerful, with particular attention paid to head movements and footwork, which emphasize key moments in the song and enhance the dynamism. Every gesture is calculated for maximum visual impact; the head movements highlight the members' charm and allure, while also underscoring their technique and aesthetics.
“FREAK ALARM” combines a hard-hitting beat with a fast, catchy flow. The lyrics, with lines like, “I’m gonna hit the freak alarm,” symbolize the group’s desire to make their presence felt immediately, to set off alarm bells, and to captivate a global audience. The chorus and the song’s emphatic sections reflect the explosive energy and confidence that have defined ALPHA DRIVE ONE since their debut.
In short, "FREAK ALARM" is a strategic debut track that simultaneously showcases the group’s stage presence, cohesion, and personality, heralding ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s arrival as a major force in the new generation of K-Pop.
Edited by Bryn Claybourne