ALPHA DRIVE ONE member Geonwoo is stepping away from group activities just three months after debut, following controversy over remarks he made off-camera.
On April 8th, agency WakeOne released an official statement confirming that the posts regarding the artist circulating online are authentic. The company added that the group will continue promotions as a seven-member team for the time being.
The issue stems from pre-debut content filming, where Geonwoo was reportedly unaware his microphone was still on and expressed inappropriate complaints about staff or the situation.
One viral post claimed that during IDOL 1N2D’s filming, he swore at the program’s head writer, saying, “What am I supposed to do, f***?” Though this account remains unverified, it quickly spread online and fueled the controversy.
알티 실수가 아니었구나 https://t.co/lvonp997gC pic.twitter.com/oGgflkxZ9S
— ; ) (@instiz) April 8, 2026
WakeOne clarified that while the remarks were not directed at a specific individual, they were “inappropriate under any circumstances.” The agency issued an apology to those on set and to fans, adding that Geonwoo is taking time for reflection.
WAKEONE
NOTICE
ALPHA DRIVE ONE 김건우 관련 사실관계 확인 및 향후 조치에 관한 안내∫ NEW WAVE of ENTERTAINMENT#WAKEONE #웨이크원#ALPHADRIVEONE #ALD1#알파드라이브원 pic.twitter.com/wnKcvSZTbP
— WAKEONE 웨이크원 (@wakeone_offcl) April 8, 2026
The decision to halt activities appears to come after weeks of mounting online allegations and a noticeable shift in fan sentiment. Some fans had demanded a clear explanation, even organizing truck protests, as the situation continued to escalate. In response, the agency ultimately opted for a suspension to contain the fallout.
At the same time, WakeOne firmly denied other personal allegations that have been spreading online, calling them “groundless.” The company also acknowledged shortcomings in managing the artist’s conduct and pledged to strengthen internal communication and artist training moving forward.
As a result, Geonwoo will be absent from upcoming group promotions and a planned fan concert.
With the group still in its early stages—when strong fandom cohesion is critical—the controversy and sudden lineup change pose a significant challenge. Whether the agency’s promised reforms can restore public trust, and whether the remaining members can rally and prove their unity, will likely shape ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s path forward.
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