ZEROBASEONE's New Chapter: Moving Forward as Five
The K-pop world witnessed a significant announcement today as ZEROBASEONE, the beloved group formed through Mnet's "Boys Planet," confirmed their future direction. After much anticipation and speculation, WAKEONE has officially announced that ZEROBASEONE will continue as a five-member group, marking a bittersweet new chapter for the group and their devoted fandom, ZEROSE.
The Five Who Continue
On February 12, 2026, WAKEONE revealed that five members will carry the ZEROBASEONE name forward: Sung Han Bin, Kim Ji Woong, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae Rae, and Park Gun Wook. This configuration brings together members across different agencies, showcasing the commitment to keep the group's spirit alive despite the complexities of the K-pop industry.
The lineup includes three members now under WAKEONE's management, Kim Tae Rae, who was already signed with the agency, along with Seok Matthew and Park Gun Wook, who recently joined. Meanwhile, leader Sung Han Bin will remain with THE L1VE, and Kim Ji Woong stays with NEST Management.
This multi-agency arrangement demonstrates the dedication of all parties involved to maintain ZEROBASEONE's presence in the industry.
Sung Han Bin - The charismatic leader known as K-pop's first tutting idol
Kim Ji Woong - The experienced multi-talent with acting and previous idol group experience
Seok Matthew - The Korean-Canadian charmer who bridges global fans
Kim Tae Rae - The vocal powerhouse with a rich, powerful voice
Park Gun Wook - The young all-rounder with natural leadership qualities
A Difficult Farewell
The announcement also confirmed what many fans had been dreading: Zhang Hao, Ricky, Kim Gyu Vin, and Han Yu Jin will be parting ways with the group. All four members are signed with YH Entertainment, and their departure marks the end of an era for the nine-member ensemble that captured hearts since their debut.
Each of these departing members brought unique talents and personalities to ZEROBASEONE. Zhang Hao's musical prowess, Ricky's stage presence, Kim Gyu Vin's charisma, and Han Yu Jin's youthful energy all contributed to the group's dynamic chemistry. Their departure will undoubtedly leave a void that fans will feel deeply.
What This Means for ZEROSE
For fans who have supported ZEROBASEONE since "Boys Planet," this news brings mixed emotions. The joy of knowing that ZEROBASEONE will continue is tempered by the sadness of saying goodbye to beloved members. The group's journey has been defined by the unity of all nine members, their growth together, and the bond they shared with fans.
Moving forward as five means ZEROBASEONE will need to redefine their sound, their choreography, and their group dynamic. The remaining members will likely take on expanded roles, and fans will witness their evolution as artists navigating this transition. It's a challenging path, but one that many K-pop groups have successfully traversed before.
A Message to the Departing Members
To Zhang Hao, Ricky, Kim Gyu Vin, and Han Yu Jin: your contributions to ZEROBASEONE will never be forgotten. You helped create something special, and the memories you made with fans will last forever. As you embark on new journeys, whether in solo careers, acting, or other pursuits, ZEROSE will continue to support and cheer for you.
The Road Ahead
Change is never easy, especially in an industry where group cohesion is so highly valued. But ZEROBASEONE's story is far from over. The five members moving forward carry with them the legacy of all nine, the love of their fans, and the determination to honor what ZEROBASEONE represents.
As ZEROSE, the road ahead may look different than we imagined, but the journey continues. We'll be there to support all nine members, the five who carry on the ZEROBASEONE name and the four who venture toward new horizons. This isn't an ending; it's a transformation, a new beginning written in the language of resilience and hope.
The story of ZEROBASEONE continues, and we're here for every moment of it.