K-pop boy band AHOF has released their second mini-album "The Passage," a fairytale-inspired project that explores the complexities of youth and the journey from boyhood to adulthood. The nine-member group dropped the album on Tuesday evening, just four months after making their ambitious debut in the competitive K-pop industry. However, member Chih En will not participate in current promotional activities due to health issues, leaving the group to perform as an eight-member act for the time being.
The group, consisting of Steven, Jeongwoo, Woongki, Shuaibo, Han, JL, Juwon, Chih En, and Daisuke, was originally formed through broadcaster SBS's survival audition show "Universe League." Their debut in July with the mini-album "WHO WE ARE" made a significant impact, ranking fifth among all-time first-week sales records for a boy group's debut. The debut's lead single "Rendezvous," described as a sweeping rock anthem filled with nostalgia, earned three music show trophies within just 10 days, establishing AHOF as a powerful rookie act to watch.
At a press showcase held Tuesday afternoon at YES24 Live Hall in Seoul's Gwangjin District, the members appeared dressed entirely in white, symbolizing their new chapter focused on "growth and transformation." Woongki explained the concept behind their latest release, saying, "Our debut album showed our limitless potential, but this time, we wanted to tell a story about the growing pains that come with moving from boyhood to adulthood. Youth feels beautiful and passionate, but it's also full of anxiety and uncertainty. We wanted to embrace that and show how it makes us stronger."
Regarding Chih En's absence from promotions, member Jeongwoo provided an update to concerned fans. "He's doing his best to recover and return in good health," Jeongwoo said. "The love from fans has given him motivation, and we've worked hard to fill his space until he's back." The remaining eight members have adjusted their performances and choreography to accommodate the temporary change in lineup.
"The Passage" draws inspiration from the classic tale of Pinocchio, the story of a wooden puppet who learns to become human through his experiences and growth. The members have identified with Pinocchio's journey, viewing it as a reflection of their own gradual process of discovering truth and authenticity during their transition toward adulthood. This fairytale theme runs throughout the five-track record, providing a cohesive narrative about transformation and self-discovery.
The album's title track "Pinocchio" serves as the centerpiece of the release, featuring a soaring pop-rock sound that mirrors the emotional intensity of their debut hit "Rendezvous." The song combines powerful band arrangements with heartfelt vocals, building to what the group describes as a sonic catharsis. The choreography for "Pinocchio" takes full advantage of AHOF's large lineup, creating synchronized formations that showcase the members' teamwork and highlight their cohesive group dynamic.
With five members coming from international backgrounds, AHOF has set their sights on global expansion beyond the Korean market. "We've traveled to many countries since our debut, and it's always incredible to meet fans everywhere," said Steven. "I especially want to perform in Australia, where I was born and raised." Japanese member Daisuke echoed this international ambition, stating, "Meeting fans across the world is something we've always dreamed of. A world tour would mean everything to us."
As AHOF looks toward the future, the group has set ambitious goals for their comeback and the remainder of 2025. "I want us to win first place on every music show," Steven declared. "We won three last time, but this time we're aiming for all of them, and to show how much we've grown." Woongki concluded with equally bold aspirations: "With the year coming to an end, I hope we can take home multiple awards, including Rookie of the Year. We want to be remembered as the most memorable new act of 2025."
