Kim Geonwoo of K-pop group ALPHA DRIVE ONE has filed a lawsuit against his agency WAKEONE, seeking a court ruling on the validity of his exclusive contract and his status as an artist following a six-month hiatus.
The legal action became public on Sunday, 25 October, prompting WAKEONE to issue two statements addressing the dispute and the singer’s future with the group.
The agency initially declined to discuss the case in detail, citing ongoing legal proceedings. It later confirmed that disagreements over plans for Geonwoo’s return had led to the lawsuit.
WAKEONE NOTICE ALPHA DRIVE ONE 활동 관련 안내 ∫ NEW WAVE of ENTERTAINMENT #WAKEONE #웨이크원 https://t.co/wn5kRDKsfr
— WAKEONE 웨이크원 (@wakeone_offcl) October 25, 2026
WAKEONE said it had been discussing possible schedules and content for the singer’s future activities but had been unable to reach an agreement.
The company apologised to fans and said it would respond to the lawsuit through established legal procedures. It also urged the public not to circulate unverified claims about the dispute.
Will Geonwoo return to ALPHA DRIVE ONE?
Despite the lawsuit, WAKEONE confirmed that ALPHA DRIVE ONE would continue its scheduled activities with the seven members currently promoting.
The agency said it would support the remaining members and ensure their music releases and performances proceeded without disruption.
It also confirmed that discussions with Geonwoo about his future career would continue, leaving the possibility of his return unresolved.
According to South Korean media reports, Geonwoo had expressed a desire to resume group activities, but the dispute escalated after the agency allegedly failed to take the measures he wanted.
Why has Geonwoo been on hiatus since April?
Geonwoo debuted with ALPHA DRIVE ONE in January 2026 after participating in the survival programme BOYS II PLANET.
His career faced controversy in the spring after industry representatives alleged that he had made offensive remarks and displayed inappropriate behaviour towards production staff.
One incident involved Geonwoo reportedly using inappropriate language while complaining during a pre-debut filming session, unaware that his microphone was switched on.
WAKEONE subsequently acknowledged the incident but maintained that his remarks were not directed at a particular individual. The agency apologised to the production staff, while Geonwoo issued a personal apology for his behaviour.
He suspended group activities in April to reflect on the controversy, leaving ALPHA DRIVE ONE to promote as a seven-member group.
Six months later, the dispute has moved to court, with Geonwoo’s contractual status and potential return still unresolved.
