The global K-pop landscape welcomes a popular rising star for 2026: ALPHA DRIVE ONE. The eight-member boy group recently opened the prelude to their race toward the very top of the global K-pop stage with their first pre-release single, “FORMULA,” released on Dec. 3. This release builds anticipation for their official debut with their first mini album, ‘EUPHORIA,’ on Jan. 12, 2026!
ALPHA DRIVE ONE (알파드라이브원) Official Profile#ALPHADRIVEONE #ALD1#알파드라이브원 pic.twitter.com/y9icj8twDJ
— ALPHA DRIVE ONE (@ALD1_official) October 12, 2025
ALPHA DRIVE ONE, often referred to as ALD1, was formed through Mnet’s survival competition series, Boys II Planet. When the finale concluded at the end of September, fans eagerly awaited news from the newly formed team. The group consists of members Leo, Junseo, Arno (Zhang Jia Hao), Geonwoo, Sangwon, Xinlong, Anxin and Sanghyeon, who were selected from 160 contestants.
The group holds a significant place in Mnet’s history. The chosen eight were the result of approximately 26.6 million votes cast across 223 countries and regions through the Mnet Plus app, making that season of Boys II Planet the most fan-voted group in Mnet history.
The Meaning Behind the Team and the Music
The group’s name, ALPHA DRIVE ONE, carries a clear mission. ALPHA represents their goal to become the absolute best. DRIVE symbolizes the passion and initiative that drive them forward. Finally, ONE signifies the unity of one official team.
As a reflection of this unity, the pre-release single “FORMULA” is described as the group’s “ONE TEAM Declaration Song.” The title track captures the exhilarating moment when eight members, each running toward their dreams along their own unique paths, finally come together as a team and begin their collective drive. The song title itself refers to both a ‘formula’ and a ‘rule.’ It signifies that while the members grew up with different rules and methods, they have now combined to complete a singular formula, starting an infinite drive forward in ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s own signature style. This track also serves as a pre-announcement of the colorful identity of their upcoming debut album.
Hitmaker KENZIE, a renowned K-pop producer, contributed to the making of “FORMULA.” The track is an electronic dance pop single, characterized by an explosive synth sound and a roaring, intense baseline that creates irresistible momentum and powerful groove. The beat vividly expresses the focused energy of youth moving forward without hesitation, even after a long wait.
The song’s central message is delivered through an addictive hook that proclaims their existence: “Racing on my track, my one formula act / We got the FORMULA.” Ultimately, “FORMULA” is a strong signal track that captures the symbolic moment of the unified rookies clarifying their momentum and ambition as one team, officially announcing their presence to the world.
MAMA Stage and ALLYZ
Before their debut, ALPHA DRIVE ONE immediately made their presence known on the major stage. They delivered their first performance following their formation at this year’s 2025 MAMA AWARDS during CHAPTER 1 on Nov. 28. Fans should watch the high-energy performance clip to fully appreciate the power and potential they bring to the global stage.
The group also took steps to solidify their identity for their fans. They announced Leo as the official leader during an Instagram live broadcast. Furthermore, the members revealed their official fan club name ALLYZ. The name was chosen because it symbolizes the team’s unbreakable spirit to always stay with their fans.
ALPHA DRIVE ONE is ready to hit the gas. Which member’s unique “FORMULA” are you most excited to see power the team’s official debut, ‘EUPHORIA,’ on Jan. 12? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter/X!
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Featured Image Credit: ALPHA DRIVE ONE Official X
