The K-pop world was met with bittersweet news on October 31, 2025, as 8D Entertainment officially announced the end of its management relationship with the acclaimed boy group OnlyOneOf.
The seven-member group—KB, Love, Rie, Yoojung, Junji, Mill, and Nine—debuted under 8D Entertainment in 2019 and has since been celebrated for pushing creative boundaries, exploring taboo topics, and reshaping what it means to be a “conceptual idol group.”
For six years, OnlyOneOf stood as a symbol of innovation and emotional depth in the ever-evolving K-pop landscape.
Their disbandment under 8D marks not just the end of a professional contract, but the closing of a defining era in alternative K-pop artistry.
The Announcement: 8D Entertainment’s Statement
On October 31, 8D Entertainment released an official statement confirming that their management of OnlyOneOf had come to an end.
The message, though brief, carried deep gratitude and emotion:
“We are letting you know that our management of OnlyOneOf has come to an end. We would like to sincerely thank the lyOn [OnlyOneOf’s fans] who have supported the artists with their unchanging love for a long time. Although [OnlyOneOf’s] activities as a group have ended, we ask that you warmly keep an eye on each member’s new start and give them lots of support and encouragement in the future. Thank you.”
The statement confirmed that the group’s official activities as OnlyOneOf had concluded, implying that the members will now be pursuing their individual paths.
Fans interpreted this as a respectful and amicable separation, suggesting that there was no conflict but rather a mutual understanding of growth and new beginnings.
From Humble Beginnings to Visionary Artistry
When OnlyOneOf debuted in May 2019 with their mini-album Dot Point Jump, they instantly caught attention—not through loud promotions or viral gimmicks, but through their sophisticated aesthetic and avant-garde storytelling.
Unlike many debut groups aiming for mainstream pop appeal, OnlyOneOf leaned into conceptual minimalism and emotional vulnerability.
They described themselves as a “ubiquitous art group,” striving to create connections between music, performance, and visual art.
Their early releases like “Savanna” and “sage” displayed a haunting sensuality, combining slow R&B rhythms with philosophical lyrics.
Over time, their artistry deepened through thematic trilogies that explored human desire, spirituality, and self-acceptance.
Defining the “OnlyOneOf Aesthetic”
OnlyOneOf’s music and visual universe were built around a few consistent motifs — mystery, intimacy, and duality.
Their artistic courage came to full bloom with “Libido” (2021), a song that challenged K-pop’s rigid gender and sexuality norms.
The choreography, which depicted same-sex intimacy through symbolic touch and tension, sparked heated debate in South Korea but was hailed internationally for its artistry and message of emotional freedom.
This moment transformed OnlyOneOf from a niche experimental group into K-pop’s most daring storytellers — unafraid to portray love, temptation, and confusion without sanitizing the human experience.
Their follow-up tracks, “Skinz,” “Dora Maar,” “Instinct,” “Chrome Arts,” and “Soul Drift,” continued to build upon this conceptual legacy.
Each comeback blended narrative and performance art, proving that OnlyOneOf was not just a group but a living exhibition of emotion.
Fanbase: The Heart of lyOn
Throughout their six-year journey, OnlyOneOf’s fans—affectionately called lyOn —formed one of the most loyal and passionate communities in K-pop.
OnlyOneOf (Credit: YouTube)
The fandom name, inspired by the phrase “Love you OnlyOneOf,” symbolized the unbreakable bond between artist and audience.
Even when the group faced limited mainstream exposure, lyOns championed their music across social media platforms, often trending hashtags during comebacks or anniversaries.
Fans celebrated the group’s artistry rather than numbers, embracing their intellectual and emotional storytelling as something deeply personal.
Following the news of their separation from 8D, thousands of fans took to X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to share emotional tributes, using tags like #ThankYouOnlyOneOf and #WeWillWaitForYou.
Many expressed that while the group’s era under 8D had ended, the spirit of OnlyOneOf would live on through each member’s future work.
Member Profiles: The Seven Artists Who Defined the Group
Each member of OnlyOneOf brought unique color to the group’s creative palette. Together, they formed a synergy that was less about hierarchy and more about harmony of individual expression.
1. KB (Leader, Rapper, Producer)
Known for his deep voice and artistic vision, KB was one of the group’s most hands-on creators.
He contributed to songwriting and production, helping shape OnlyOneOf’s signature sound. His charisma and introspective energy made him a pillar of the team.
2. Love (Main Vocalist)
Love’s rich, emotive vocals defined many of the group’s most memorable tracks. As one of the earliest faces of the group, he embodied both vulnerability and strength in performance, captivating audiences with his expressive delivery.
3. Rie (Vocalist, Dancer)
Rie was known for his delicate visuals and elegant dance style. His ability to convey emotion through movement elevated OnlyOneOf’s choreography to an art form.
He announced his military enlistment in early 2025, pausing his artistic activities temporarily.
4. Yoojung (Vocalist, Dancer)
Often regarded as the group’s emotional anchor, Yoojung stood out for his soulful expressions and stage presence.
His performances in songs like “Libido” and “Skinz” left lasting impressions for their intensity and grace.
5. Junji (Lead Dancer, Vocalist)
Junji’s fluid dance lines and gentle charisma made him a fan favorite.
His ethereal style blended strength and sensitivity, often bringing the group’s artistic concepts to life through physical storytelling.
6. Mill (Rapper)
Mill, with his bold rap delivery and dynamic stage persona, added texture and contrast to the group’s smooth musical layers. His rebellious energy balanced the group’s softer emotional tones.
7. Nine (Maknae, Vocalist, Lyricist)
The youngest member, Nine, emerged as a lyrical storyteller, contributing to songwriting and emotional themes in OnlyOneOf’s later works. His youth and creativity hinted at a promising solo future.
A Timeline of Artistic Milestones
- 2019: Debut with Dot Point Jump, showcasing experimental sounds.
- 2020: Release of Produced by [ ] Series, collaborating with producers like Gray and GroovyRoom.
- 2021: Breakthrough with “Libido”, redefining artistic boundaries.
- 2022: Continuation of “Instinct” era; exploration of maturity and identity.
- 2023–2024: Members begin individual projects and solo releases (OnlyOneOf’s “Underground Idol” project).
- 2025: Release of “Stay” teaser and Rie’s enlistment; conclusion of activities under 8D Entertainment.
Through these years, OnlyOneOf proved that K-pop could be conceptually rich, emotionally raw, and intellectually daring—even without the backing of a major label powerhouse.
The Separation: Understanding Its Significance
In K-pop, contract expirations are a turning point. Most idol contracts last around seven years, and OnlyOneOf’s timing—six years after debut—aligns with the industry’s typical renewal period.
However, the tone of 8D’s statement and the group’s lack of visible discord suggest that the parting was based on creative independence, not conflict.
As an art-driven group, it is likely that the members wished for greater control over their artistic direction.
Fans have speculated that the group might continue informal collaborations or even reform under a different label in the future, similar to how other K-pop groups like GOT7 and Highlight maintained group identity post-departure.
Global Impact: A Quiet Revolution in K-pop
Although OnlyOneOf was never a chart-topping name like BTS or Stray Kids, their impact transcended numbers. Critics often compared them to conceptual art collectives rather than typical idol groups.
They sparked important conversations about gender, identity, and emotional expression in K-pop—a field that traditionally prioritizes image over introspection.
International media outlets like Rolling Stone and Dazed Korea praised their ability to merge sensual performance with poetic storytelling.
By doing so, OnlyOneOf inspired a new generation of idols and fans who seek meaning beyond mainstream success.
Their artistry helped broaden the definition of what K-pop could be: not just catchy, but thought-provoking and boundary-breaking.
Fan Tributes: A Global Farewell
As the news spread, lyOns worldwide organized online projects to celebrate the group’s legacy. Fans created art compilations, lyric translations, and digital archives of performances.
Many shared personal stories of how OnlyOneOf’s music helped them embrace self-love and emotional honesty.
In one viral fan message, a user wrote:
“OnlyOneOf taught me that art doesn’t need to scream to be heard. It just needs to be felt.”
Such sentiments reflect how deeply the group’s music resonated with individuals on a personal and psychological level—a rare feat in the pop industry.
Though 8D Entertainment confirmed that OnlyOneOf’s group activities have ended, the members are expected to pursue new endeavors.
Some may join new agencies or continue as soloists, while others may focus on production, songwriting, or choreography.
With several members already displaying strong creative instincts, fans anticipate that their independent paths will continue to embody the artistic integrity that defined OnlyOneOf.
Given the group’s close-knit chemistry, future collaborations or one-off reunions are not off the table. In K-pop, bonds like theirs rarely fade completely—they evolve.
K-pop fans have reason to rejoice as INFINITE’s Dongwoo officially teases his much-anticipated solo comeback, marking the artist’s first solo activity in nearly seven years.
On October 31, 2025, KST, Dongwoo released a “coming soon” teaser film, giving fans a glimpse of his upcoming project.
The teaser, short yet impactful, features Dongwoo performing alone in a dark setting, highlighting both his strong, toned physique and exceptional dance skills.
This visual immediately sparked excitement across social media and fan communities, with many expressing anticipation for what the singer has been preparing during his hiatus.
A Long-Awaited Return
Dongwoo’s previous solo work, his first mini-album “Bye”, was released in 2019, and since then, he has primarily focused on group activities with INFINITE .
With this new teaser, fans are not only witnessing a return to solo work but also a potential evolution in his musical style.
The cinematic, minimalist setting of the teaser suggests a more mature, intense concept, reflecting his growth as both a performer and an individual artist over the past seven years.
Official Album Release Date and Expectations
His upcoming solo album is officially set for release on November 18, 2025, at 6 PM KST, promising a fresh set of tracks that will showcase Dongwoo’s versatility as a singer, dancer, and performer.
The teaser’s choreography emphasizes his precision and control, leaving fans speculating about the music style—whether it will lean toward R&B, pop, or experimental K-pop soundscapes.
Given his history of delivering high-energy performances and emotionally resonant music, expectations for the album are understandably high.
INFINITE’s Dongwoo (Credit: YouTube)
Significance in K-Pop Solo Careers
Dongwoo’s return is also significant within the broader context of K-pop solo careers. Fans have been eagerly waiting to see how an established group member can establish a unique musical identity separate from their group activities.
In this case, Dongwoo’s teaser signals a bold, confident solo presence while still honoring his roots with INFINITE.
His ability to amaze with intense stage charisma and dance mastery hints at a project that balances both vocal performance and visual storytelling.
Teaser Concept and Visuals
The teaser’s dark, moody setting is not only visually striking but also symbolic, suggesting Dongwoo stepping into a new era of his career.
The decision to release a minimalist teaser film rather than a full music video initially could be interpreted as a strategic move to build anticipation and curiosity.
Fans have taken to online forums and social media platforms to discuss potential themes, track titles, and the overall concept of the comeback, generating organic buzz that will likely amplify the album’s reception upon release.
INFINITE Members’ Solo Journeys
For INFINITE fans, this solo comeback also represents a continuation of the group members’ individual artistic journeys.
Over the years, INFINITE has been known for tight group synchronization, catchy tracks, and dynamic performances, but each member pursuing solo projects allows fans to experience different facets of their artistry.
INFINITE’s Dongwoo (Credit: YouTube)
Dongwoo’s return, especially after such a long gap, emphasizes his commitment to personal growth and musical exploration, promising a fresh and potentially groundbreaking experience for listeners.
Looking Forward to November 18
Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for November 18, 2025, when the album officially drops at 6 PM KST.
With the teaser already hinting at a high-concept, visually engaging project, expectations are high not only for the music itself but also for accompanying performances, live stages, and promotional content.
Dongwoo’s teaser demonstrates that he has not lost his signature intensity and performance quality, reassuring fans that the wait has been worth it.
