Why is zerobaseone a temporary group

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: ZEROBASEONE is a temporary group because it was formed through the Mnet survival show 'Boys Planet' in 2023 with a predetermined contract period. The group debuted on July 10, 2023, with a 2.5-year contract that expires on December 31, 2025. This temporary structure is common for K-pop groups formed through competition shows, allowing members to return to their original agencies or pursue individual activities after the contract ends.

Key Facts

Formed through Mnet's 'Boys Planet' survival show in 2023
Debuted on July 10, 2023 with first mini-album 'YOUTH IN THE SHADE'
2.5-year contract period ending December 31, 2025
Nine members selected from 98 contestants in the final episode
Managed by WAKEONE Entertainment during contract period

Overview

ZEROBASEONE (often stylized as ZB1) is a South Korean boy band formed through the Mnet reality competition show 'Boys Planet' in 2023. The show aired from February 2 to April 20, 2023, featuring 98 contestants competing for spots in the final lineup. In the finale on April 20, 2023, nine members were selected through global voting: Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Sung Han-bin, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin. The group's name combines 'Zero' (representing infinite potential) and 'Base One' (symbolizing a new beginning). ZEROBASEONE debuted on July 10, 2023, with their first mini-album 'YOUTH IN THE SHADE,' which sold over 1.8 million copies in its first week, setting a record for highest first-week sales by a K-pop debut album. The group is managed by WAKEONE Entertainment, a subsidiary of CJ ENM, during their contract period.

How It Works

The temporary nature of ZEROBASEONE operates through a fixed-term contract system common in K-pop survival show groups. After the 'Boys Planet' finale, the nine selected members signed exclusive contracts with WAKEONE Entertainment for a predetermined period of 2.5 years, from their debut date until December 31, 2025. During this period, WAKEONE manages all group activities including music production, promotions, concerts, and endorsements. The members' original agencies (like Yuehua Entertainment, which has three members) agree to this arrangement through contractual agreements. The temporary structure allows for focused group activities while maintaining the members' connections to their home agencies. After the contract expires, members typically return to their original companies or pursue individual careers, though some groups have extended their contracts through negotiations.

Why It Matters

ZEROBASEONE's temporary status matters because it represents a successful model in the K-pop industry for creating high-impact groups with built-in expiration dates. Their record-breaking debut sales demonstrate the commercial viability of this approach. The temporary structure creates urgency among fans, driving higher engagement and sales during the limited contract period. For the industry, it allows multiple agencies to collaborate without permanent commitments, spreading risk and resources. For members, it provides a platform to gain recognition before returning to their original agencies with enhanced careers. This model has proven successful with previous temporary groups like I.O.I (11-month contract), Wanna One (1.5-year contract), and X1 (planned 5-year contract before disbandment).