[INTERVIEW] From runner-up glory to winning over fans‘ hearts, ONEUS aims higher

Ok-pop boy band ONEUS / Courtesy of RBW Leisure

In the event you’re a Ok-pop fanatic, chances are high you have most likely heard of Mnet’s competitors program sequence „Highway to Kingdom.“

For followers of the franchise, it is laborious to overlook the identify, ONEUS, a five-piece boy band that has appeared not as soon as, however twice in its consecutive seasons — the primary in 2020 and the newest, „Highway to Kingdom: Ace of Ace,“ which aired its finale in November 2024.

Whereas the group completed fourth in its first look, edged out by seasoned business seniors, the group climbed to second place 4 years later. The outcome wasn’t a victory, however the 5 members of ONEUS noticed it as a testomony to their progress.

„Within the first season, our purpose was merely to do our greatest and current nice performances. However this time, our purpose was to win. Though we did not obtain that, simply with the ability to set the next purpose made us really feel that we had grown considerably,“ Keonhee advised The Korea Instances throughout an interview at a restaurant in Seoul’s Gwangjin District, Tuesday.

„Creating memorable levels was a given, however realizing we may even purpose for victory was a testomony to our growth as a bunch … That is why ending because the runner-up feels much less like a loss and extra like a milestone.“

Whereas narrowly lacking the highest spot was bittersweet, the group mentioned the expertise rekindled significant connections.

„Once we obtained the runner-up outcome, these round us appeared much more disillusioned than we have been,“ Keonhee mentioned. „Employees from our company, in fact, however particularly our longtime followers who’ve at all times supported us. It made us notice how properly we have carried out over the previous six years and the way many individuals actually cherish us.“

Ok-pop boy band ONEUS / Courtesy of RBW Leisure

As a gesture of gratitude, ONEUS determined to dedicate its subsequent undertaking solely to its followers. On Tuesday, the group launched a particular album titled „Pricey.M,“ which options rerecorded variations of its earlier title tracks alongside brand-new songs.

„It is already been six years since our debut and this album is a present to the followers who’ve supported us all through this journey,“ Hwanwoong mentioned. „I believe it actually displays our heartfelt gratitude and the love we’ve got for them.“

The brand new album’s lead single, „IKUK,“ was first carried out throughout „Highway to Kingdom: Ace of Ace.“ Identified for his or her distinctive visible storytelling — from portraying merman princes to fictional monarchs — the members emphasised the distinctive aesthetics of the brand new launch.

„Through the years, we have explored varied ideas and genres, however this time we’re revisiting the vampire theme, a fan favourite, after a number of years. The distinction now’s that this vampire idea looks like aged wine — refined and matured,“ Keonhee mentioned. „Past simply showcasing pale pores and skin and fangs, we additionally explored the emotional struggles of a monster in love with a human being. We actually do hope followers stay up for it.“

Ok-pop boy band ONEUS / Courtesy of RBW Leisure

Six years into its profession, ONEUS is now going through a vital hurdle: the seven-year mark, a milestone usually seen as a turning level for idol teams because of contract expirations. Moreover, Seoho, the group’s eldest member, is getting ready to start his necessary army service this yr, elevating questions in regards to the group’s future.

Concerning the uncertainties, nevertheless, the ONEUS members remained resolute.

„Whereas we will not reveal any particular plans simply but, one factor we will confidently say is that we’re shifting ahead with the intention of defending ONEUS till the top,“ Keonhee mentioned, addressing the troubles. „In the end, we need to protect this group we love a lot and maintain performing. If anybody is apprehensive, please do not be.“

Seoho echoed this sentiment, expressing his readiness for army service. „It is my obligation as a citizen and I am totally ready to satisfy it,“ he mentioned. „I will do my greatest and return stronger. I stay up for exhibiting you ways a lot I’ve grown after I return.“