[OSENWORLD] ZEROBASEONE are entering a new chapter with the release of their first full-length album NEVER SAY NEVER, signaling their ambition to transcend fifth-generation K-pop and establish themselves as an iconic brand in their own right.
The nine-member group — Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-bin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin — unveiled the album today (Sept. 1) at 6 p.m. KST across major streaming platforms. It marks their first studio record and follows their fifth mini album BLUE PARADICE released six months ago.
Becoming ‘ICONIK’
At the heart of the project is the title track ICONIK, a nu-disco-driven pop song that spotlights ZEROBASEONE’s commanding presence. With sleek grooves, tight rhythms, and soaring vocals, the track builds to a climactic finish, embodying the group’s determination to be “iconic” on their own terms.
“ICONIK represents our journey as artists,” the group said. “It’s about proving that regardless of outside judgment, we can define ourselves and shine as something iconic.” The song underscores their confidence to evolve from idols into a cultural brand with global resonance.
A Journey in Music
NEVER SAY NEVER also reflects ZEROBASEONE’s growth over two years of music-making, from their “Youth Trilogy” to the “Paradise Duology.” The album carries the empowering message: “If you never give up, nothing is impossible,” a declaration to fans and to themselves.
10 Tracks, Endless Growth
The album features 10 songs including ICONIK. Highlights include the high-energy SLAM DUNK, the playful Lovesick Game, the dreamy Goosebumps, and the carefree Dumb. A Korean version of their Japanese track NOW OR NEVER adds a fresh twist, while unit songs bring variety: EXTRA (Han-bin, Matthew, Gyu-bin, Gun-wook, Yu-jin) delivers ZB1’s trademark “spicy” edge, and Long Way Back (Ji-woong, Hao, Tae-rae, Ricky) channels delicate emotions of distance and longing. Rounding out the record are the anthemic Star Eyes and the fan-dedicated I Know U Know.
Rising as an Iconic Brand
As their first studio album, NEVER SAY NEVER is more than a milestone — it is a manifesto. ZEROBASEONE aim to move beyond being labeled a fifth-generation idol group, presenting themselves as a collective with staying power, artistry, and the drive to become iconic in the global pop landscape.
/k_inside@osen.co.kr
Photo courtesy of WAKEONE
