ZB1 returns with 'Melting Point' after record-breaking debut success

K-pop act ZEROBASEONE poses during a press event at YES 24 Live Hall, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of WAKEONE Entertainment

K-pop sensation ZEROBASEONE (ZB1) released a new album, "Melting Point," just four months after its debut.

The nine-member group, consisting of Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Sung Han-bin, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook and Han Yu-jin, was formed through Mnet's 2023 audition program, "Boys Planet." The group's inception was entirely determined by viewer's votes during the show.

In recognition of the pivotal role their fans have played in their journey, ZB1 members gathered on Monday at the YES 24 Live Hall in Gwangjin District, eastern Seoul, for a press event to mark the new release and express their gratitude.

"Our official fandom, Ze_Rose, has been a constant source of inspiration in our lives. We are deeply grateful for the confidence and support we receive from our fans and we are committed to reciprocating that love," Seok said during the event.

Ze_Rose's passion for the group is known to be on a par with, if not greater than, any other K-pop fanbase, particularly given their voted-into-existence nature.

The group's debut album, "Youth in the Shade," released in July, made history by selling 1 million copies on the day of its release. ZB1 subsequently became the first K-pop act to achieve double-million sales with their debut album, thanks to their massive fanbase.

The nonet revealed that the overwhelming support from fans inspired their new message-filled album, "Melting Point."

Sung, the group's leader, explained the evolved message their song contains.

"The title song 'In Bloom' from our debut album conveys the message that we aim to approach our fans even though we are still imperfect, while 'Crush,' our new title track, symbolizes our commitment to further growth and a tribute to our fans who have stood by us."

The youngest member, Han, added, "We promise to stay strong for our fans who helped us realize our dreams. The message in this album reflects the strength we have gained."

K-pop boy band ZEROBASEONE performs "Crush," the title track of the new album, "Melting Point," during a press event at YES 24 Live Hall in Gwangjin District, Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of WAKEONE Entertainment

The group also shared some anecdotes from the process of preparing the new album.

"The snow in our concept photos was actually salt props. I distinctly remember the taste of salt during the shoot," Seok recalled.

Gyu-vin detailed their efforts to deliver an exceptional performance to fans.

"'Crush' demanded high-pitched and solid vocals. We sang so passionately that when the recording sessions were over, the whole room had become humid," he said.

Despite releasing their second album just four months after its debut, ZB1 displayed no signs of fatigue and remained positive, emphasizing the growth of their teamwork.

Zhang Hao expressed, "Our teamwork and abilities have significantly improved during the making of this album. We aim to showcase a new charm effortlessly."

Already making their mark as K-pop super rookies, ZB1 is setting their sights on even greater goals.

Ji-woong stated, "I initially expressed a desire to win a Rookie Award at our debut showcase, and we actually managed to achieve it. With various award ceremonies ahead, we are determined to earn more accolades, proving ourselves as deserving recipients of the Rookie Award."

Zhang Hao added, "Since our debut, we've been diligently working to live up to the title of a global mega-rookie. We aspire to work even harder, so more people can enjoy our music and make it a global mega-hit."