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“We want to become both the history and the symbol of K-pop!” (Arno)
The wait is over for AlphaDrive1 (hereafter ‘ALD1’). The project group, formed through Mnet’s survival audition program Boys 2 Planet, officially took to the stage today, marking their debut just 100 days after the team’s formation.
From the outset, the members displayed fierce determination to reach the industry’s summit. “We have prepared without rest every single day to show our absolute best,” said member Lio. Kunwoo added, “We intend to spark a global syndrome by delivering our signature positive energy.”
On the 12th, ALD1 held a press showcase at the Blue Square SOL Travel Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of their first mini-album, EUPHORIA. During the event, the group shared their reflections on debuting and outlined their future ambitions.
The group’s name, ‘AlphaDrive1,’ signifies a team united in a passionate drive toward the top. The octet consists of members Lio, Junseo, Arno, Kunwoo, Sangwon, Xinlong, Anxin, and Sanghyun.
“I really connected with the meaning behind our group name,” Junseo remarked. “Just as the name suggests, I believe we need to keep sprinting forward. We will work tirelessly so that the name ALD1 can shine even brighter.”
The members spent the three months following Boys 2 Planet strengthening their bond. “I’ve gained seven brothers,” Lio said with a smile. “The happiness and joy I feel have increased sevenfold.”
Sangwon recalled a pivotal moment during their debut trailer shoot: “We wrote ‘ALD1 Fighting’ in the sand and promised each other to give our all in every performance. That was the moment our teamwork truly solidified.”
Xinlong added, “We were constantly exchanging feedback and brainstorming ways to improve. Through that process, it really sank in that we are finally one team.”
Their debut album, EUPHORIA, captures the raw emotions and exhilaration of a new beginning. It weaves a narrative of eight individuals, previously moving in their own directions, finally coming together as a cohesive unit.
The album features six tracks, including the lead single "Freak Alarm," followed by "Formula," "Low Flame," "Chains," "Never Been to Heaven," and "Cinnamon Shake."
“This album isn’t just about the joy of debuting,” Lio explained. “It’s meant to offer empathy and encouragement to anyone pushing forward through their own internal battles.”
Sangwon defined the album’s concept as ‘Romantic Energetic Core.’ “We want to show our unique brand of 'romance'—the relentless pursuit of the top, even if we aren’t perfect yet,” he said.
The title track, "Freak Alarm," is a hip-hop dance track characterized by a heavy boom-bap beat. Kunwoo highlighted the group’s sophisticated performance style. “We expressed both our initial passion and our synergy as a team. We worked hard to showcase choreography that is both intense and harmonious,” he noted.
The lyrics also reflect the group’s confidence. Sanghyun pointed to the line 'Three seconds is enough,' stating, “Just like that lyric, we are confident we can capture the public’s attention in just three seconds.”
The B-sides offer a glimpse into the group’s versatility. Junseo recommended "Low Flame," describing it as a track that reveals their "raw, unrefined desire." He added, “’Cinnamon Shake’ features lyrics celebrating our debut. It’s a sweet musical tribute to the time we spend with our fans.”
During the showcase, the group performed "Formula" and "Freak Alarm." Although Arno was unable to participate in the choreography due to a recent fracture diagnosis, the group still delivered a commanding stage presence.
Sangwon and Lio anchored the performance with their technical prowess, while Kunwoo, Junseo, and Xinlong impressed with stable live vocals. Sanghyun and Anxin also executed their respective ‘killing parts’ with precision.
ALD1 is already gaining significant momentum. Last year, they performed a pre-release version of "Formula" at the MAMA Awards and the Melon Music Awards, leaving a strong impression on the public.
“I want to stand on those same award stages again and win the Rookie of the Year award,” Anxin said with a shy smile. “I want to share that once-in-a-lifetime moment with our fans.”
Closing the event, Kunwoo expressed the group’s ultimate goal: “We want to be recognized by the public as a team you can always trust to deliver.”
ALD1’s debut album will be released on all major streaming platforms today at 6:00 PM KST.
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