The newest boy group to emerge from the PRODUCE 101 JAPAN franchise has officially begun its journey. KO1KEYZ, a 12-member global group formed through PRODUCE 101 JAPAN SHINSEKAI, made its official debut in both Korea and Japan on October 7.
The group released its debut single “KO1KEYZ” across major music platforms at midnight KST, with the Korean version of the title track following at noon.
The simultaneous Korea-Japan launch marks an important milestone for the group, which was created through the fourth season of the PRODUCE 101 JAPAN franchise.
KO1KEYZ consists of 10 Japanese members and two Korean members, DAIKI, ISSA, KEITO, KOSUKE, RYOGA, RYUJI, SHINHAENG, SIYOUNG, TOWA, YOSHIKI, YUKI, and YURA.
Korean members SIYOUNG and SHINHAENG previously competed on the program, with SIYOUNG also known for his previous activities as a member of MIRAE.
The group’s name carries a symbolic meaning. It represents the 12 members becoming “keys” that open the door to a new world and connect with fans around the globe.
The concept reflects the group’s ambition to build a worldwide fanbase through their music and performances.
KO1KEYZ Releases Six-Track Debut Single
The debut release features a total of six tracks across its Korean and Japanese versions.
The title track “KO1KEYZ” draws inspiration from the fresh, lyrical sensibilities associated with 1990s music while expressing the excitement and emotions surrounding a first encounter.
The Japanese release also includes “Koi GAME,” “Key of Story,” and “SHINSEKAI -KO1KEYZ ver.-,” along with KO1KEYZ versions of the audition program’s concept-evaluation songs “Neko” and “BLACK ANGEL.”
The Korean version contains “KO1KEYZ (Korean ver.),” “SHINSEKAI -KO1KEYZ ver.- (Korean ver.), and the new track “Celebrate.”
“Celebrate” is described as an upbeat dance-pop song centered on appreciating and celebrating the present moment.
Meanwhile, “Key of Story” conveys gratitude for meeting fans and the determination to move toward the future together.
KO1KEYZ had already given fans a preview of their growing popularity before their official Korean debut.
The Japanese version of the single was digitally released on August 17, while its music video has surpassed 7 million views on YouTube.
KO1KEYZ Builds Momentum With Sold-Out Fan Meetings
The group’s debut comes after a strong start to its fan activities.
KO1KEYZ held its first fan meetings at Toyota Arena Tokyo from August 21 to 23 and at Kobe World Memorial Hall on September 9 and 10, with all shows selling out.
Their momentum has continued in Korea as well.
The group’s upcoming Seoul fan meetings at Blue Square on November 7 and 8 have already sold out across all four performances.
KO1KEYZ’s formation follows the success of earlier groups created through the PRODUCE 101 JAPAN franchise, including JO1, INI, and ME:I.
Unlike the earlier Japan-focused format, PRODUCE 101 JAPAN SHINSEKAI expanded its voting system internationally, with producers from more than 180 regions participating in the selection process.
With their Korea-Japan debut now officially underway, KO1KEYZ are preparing to establish themselves as a global boy group.
Their simultaneous promotions, growing fanbase, and already sold-out events point toward an ambitious beginning for the newly formed team.
