ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s Kim Geonwoo Breaks Six-Month Silence, Sues Agency Over Member Status

Staff controversy turns into legal battle, with his return to the group at issue

Kim Geonwoo, 23, a member of the group 'ALPHA DRIVE ONE', whose activities were suspended entirely after a controversy over inappropriate remarks, has taken legal action against his agency. According to legal sources recently, 'Kim Geonwoo' broke his six-month silence by filing a lawsuit against his agency, 'WAKEONE,' seeking confirmation of his status.

The lawsuit is seen as a move by 'Kim Geonwoo' to have his rights and status as an official member of 'ALPHA DRIVE ONE' reaffirmed in court and, further, to compel the resumption of his activities. In response, 'WAKEONE' officially acknowledged on the 25th that it had been sued, saying, "The relevant legal proceedings are currently underway" and "We ask for your understanding that it is difficult to comment on the specifics."

'ALPHA DRIVE ONE' is an eight-member rookie boy group formed last year through Mnet's survival audition program 'BOYS II PLANET.' Before the group debuted, however, 'Kim Geonwoo' faced strong criticism after allegations surfaced that he had made inappropriate remarks to staff during a shoot for the group's own content. As the controversy spread, the agency abruptly decided to suspend his activities in April.

'ALPHA DRIVE ONE' has since been reorganized as a seven-member group without 'Kim Geonwoo' and continues to pursue an active schedule. People in and around the music industry are watching closely to see how the outcome of this legal dispute will affect the group's future and lineup.