CJ ENM announces ZEROBASEONE's Son Han-bin as KCON's first global ambassador, promoting Korean culture and K-POP worldwide.
February/20/2026 12:34Related Groups & Members
CJ ENM revealed that it will introduce its first global ambassador at KCON, the world's largest K-festival that has been ongoing since 2012. The first KCON global ambassador is Son Han-bin from ZEROBASEONE. The global ambassador will play a role in conveying the identity and core values of KCON, a festival where one can experience Korean culture, including K-POP, K-beauty, K-food, and K-content, along with global trends. Son Han-bin will represent KCON, starting with 'KCON JAPAN 2026' held in Chiba from May 8 to 10, and continuing to 'KCON LA 2026' in Los Angeles from August 14 to 16. He is expected to showcase the diverse appeal of KCON, a festival created by K-POP fans and artists worldwide. Having shown stable hosting skills in various programs and award ceremonies, including Mnet's 'M COUNTDOWN', his performance as an ambassador is highly anticipated. Additionally, ZEROBASEONE has been announced as part of the artist lineup for 'KCON JAPAN 2026'. ZEROBASEONE is the first K-POP group to achieve six consecutive million-seller albums since their debut and has surpassed 9 million total album sales as a fifth-generation group. Their participation in 2026 is set to create new history, and 'KCON JAPAN 2026' is preparing to offer a special experience to fans worldwide alongside popular K-POP artists. CJ ENM announced plans to showcase an evolved 'K-experience' through KCON 2026, enhancing programs to convey the unique energy of KCON. KCON is strengthening its programs to create 'irreplaceable memories' for audiences through diverse stages reflecting the voices of fandoms worldwide and special participatory content. Son Han-bin, the first ambassador of KCON, expressed gratitude for being able to become the first ambassador, stating, 'KCON is one of the turning points in my life where ZEROBASEONE first showed the stage to global fans. I will do my best to create a new page of memories while experiencing and sharing Korean culture and global trends beyond generations and preferences.' KCON has been held in various locations worldwide since its inception in 2012 in Irvine, USA, establishing a festival model that encompasses all aspects of Korean culture, including K-beauty, K-food, and K-content centered around music. It has been held in 14 regions worldwide, including Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and America, with a total offline attendance of approximately 2.23 million. Through digital platforms, tens of millions of global fans have built fandoms that transcend language barriers and borders, helping artists and brands expand internationally and continuously enhancing its presence as a global K-POP festival.
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ZEROBASEONE will continue with a new lineup of 5 members: Son Hanbin, Kim Jiwoon, Seok Matthew, Kim Taere, and Park Gonuk. The agency WAKEONE assures full support for their activities and ongoing communication. Meanwhile, 4 members are preparing for new opportunities after completing their project. The group promises to maintain its identity and values while expanding its musical legacy.
On the afternoon of the 11th, ZEROBASEONE attended the red carpet event of the 2nd D Awards held at Korea University in Seoul. Other notable groups like ENHYPEN, NCT WISH, and BOYNEXTDOOR were also present. The event featured fan voting results, with winners including ENHYPEN's Heeseung and aespa's Karina.
Sok Matthew and Park Gonu of ZEROBASEONE performed at the 2026 Visionary Awards, singing 'BACK PACKER' from the OST of 'Study Group.' They expressed pride in their work and commitment to presenting new visions in K-entertainment. The group is also set to hold a concert in March 2025, showcasing their popularity.
