ZEROBASEONE's "Never Say Never" Hits 1.1M Sales Day One - Targets Billboard Chart Record
Nine-member K-pop group ZEROBASEONE achieved massive commercial success with their debut full-length album "NEVER SAY NEVER," selling over 1.1 million copies on its first day while setting ambitious new Billboard 200 goals.
Record-Breaking Album Launch
ZEROBASEONE's first full album "NEVER SAY NEVER" recorded approximately 1,102,000 copies sold on September 1, marking their fifth consecutive million-selling first day. The achievement follows previous successes with "Youth in the Shade," "Melting Point," "You Had Me At Hello," and "Blue Paradise."
At their Seoul showcase, member Kim Gyuvin expressed their Billboard ambitions: "When we reached 28th place on Billboard 200 with our fifth mini album, we were truly grateful. This time, we want to achieve a career high."
From Billboard Debut to Career High Goals
ZEROBASEONE first entered the Billboard 200 at No. 28 with "BLUE PARADISE" in April 2025, setting the record as the highest-ranking fifth-generation K-pop group on the chart. The album also claimed multiple Billboard chart positions including No. 1 on World Albums and Emerging Artists charts.
Building on this momentum, the group now aims to surpass their previous Billboard performance with "NEVER SAY NEVER." Han Yujin stated during the showcase: "We want to make an impression on audiences who haven't encountered our music yet and achieve significant milestones."
"ICONIK" Represents Artistic Evolution
The album's title track "ICONIK" showcases ZEROBASEONE's musical maturation through nu-disco influences and refined pop production. The song was produced by Kenzie and represents their journey from boys to artists.
Zhang Hao explained the track's message: "Like the lyrics say, regardless of others' evaluations, we can become iconic beings ourselves." The song emphasizes self-determination and artistic confidence as the group establishes their identity in the competitive K-pop landscape.
Two Years of Growth Captured
"NEVER SAY NEVER" follows ZEROBASEONE's signature 'Youth Trilogy' and 'Paradise Duology,' serving as the consolidation of their expanding musical universe. The 10-track album includes unit songs highlighting individual member characteristics while reinforcing group synergy.
Kim Taerae reflected on their journey: "This album condenses the growth story created by all nine members from our formation. We wanted to show our distinct color beyond just growth."
Contract Uncertainty Looms
Despite their success, ZEROBASEONE faces an uncertain future as their project contract expires in January 2026. Leader Sung Hanbin addressed the situation: "We're having many discussions and meetings, but nothing has been decided yet".
The group was formed through Mnet's "Boys Planet" survival show in 2023, operating under a 2.5-year project contract. Recent industry reports suggest some members and agencies have begun contract extension discussions.
Global Expansion Continues
ZEROBASEONE will embark on their second world tour "HERE&NOW" starting October 2025, performing across seven regions including South Korea, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
The group's international presence has grown significantly since debut, with their previous world tour attracting over 140,000 fans across eight regions. Their Japanese debut album "PREZENT" received platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan in February 2025.
"NEVER SAY NEVER" is now available on all major streaming platforms, positioning ZEROBASEONE for potential chart success as they pursue their Billboard 200 career high.
ZEROBASEONE consists of members Sung Hanbin, Kim Jiwoong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, Ricky, Kim Gyuvin, Park Gunwook, and Han Yujin.