[Photos] “We want to perform at Coachella”: AlphaDriveOne returns after seven months following member departure — showcase

AlphaDriveOne makes surprise seven-member comeback with second mini album “UNBREAKABLE”

Seven tracks aimed at the global stage mark the group’s return after seven months, following injuries and a member’s departure

The group “AlphaDriveOne” returned as a seven-member act after seven months, overcoming the painful setbacks of a member’s departure and injuries. The members said they are setting their sights on major global festival stages, including “Coachella”, with more polished and explosive performances.

Million-seller group returns with coming-of-age story that breaks through prejudice

A showcase marking the release of “AlphaDriveOne’s” second mini album, “UNBREAKABLE: 少年BEAST” (UNBREAKABLE: 少年BEAST), was held Monday at Blue Square in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The group, which debuted through Mnet’s audition program “Boys 2 Planet,” became a “million-seller” with its first album, “EUPHORIA,” released in January, and previously swept four music-show wins.

The new album, unveiled seven months later, offers a concentrated portrayal of young people’s growing pains as they struggle amid prejudice and labels. It features seven tracks, led by the title song “BORN DIRE”, along with “One More Time” and “OMG!”

Member Rio said, “The word ‘UNBREAKABLE’ in the album title — meaning something that cannot be broken — is a meaningful pledge we engraved on the wall of our dorm.” He added, “It represents the team’s identity: moving forward while relying on one another in the face of any fear.” Junseo said, “As we bonded as one team after orbiting on different paths, we became stronger on the inside.”

Turning crisis into opportunity: Seven members break through their limits with synergy

This comeback is the group’s first release since it was reorganized from eight members to seven. In April, member Kim Geon-woo suspended his group activities after becoming embroiled in controversy over inappropriate remarks. Adding to the setback, Arno, who suffered an ankle injury, and Sanghyun, who underwent surgery to remove vocal-cord polyps, will continue with limited activities, making their health the top priority.

Arno expressed regret, saying, “It is heartbreaking that I cannot show a complete performance because of my injury.” Sanghyun gave an update, saying, “I am focusing on recovering after surgery.”

Even so, the members’ determination to perform has not wavered. Discussing the choreography for the new song, Xinlong said, “We repeatedly pushed ourselves through grueling practice, carefully distributing our breathing and stamina without diminishing the performance’s explosive power.” He emphasized, “By breaking through our limits and synchronizing our movements, we gained the ‘confidence’ that we can earn public recognition through performance alone.”

Dreaming of reaching greater heights: Setting sights on global festivals

Despite enduring internal turmoil and injuries, “AlphaDriveOne’s” sights remain fixed on the world. The members said, “We hope this album’s promotions will serve as a test of our unique appeal,” adding, “We are determined not only to defend our No. 1 spot on domestic music shows but also to build our capabilities and make our music resound on stages around the world, such as Lollapalooza and “Coachella.”