WABIF (Wide Awake Before I Fall) is 1VERSE’s first release of 2026, a “sexy drill” track that explores emotional conflict through the group’s unique storytelling. Aito co-created the choreography, while Kenny and Nathan co-wrote the song.

Nathan, originally from the US, began working on the single in Seoul just one day after his arrival. Initially shy and uncertain, he soon found comfort in the team’s warm encouragement, which helped him open up and express himself creatively.

While creating WABIF, one lyric echoed his experiences: “‘Kick that ball, keep it rolling, miss my shot with the goalie’ was such a creative line, and it was so loud to my story of auditioning for a company and never making the goal,” Nathan shared.

Kenny recalled a moment with songwriter Adrian McKinnon: “Wouldn’t it be great if we put a pause... kick that ball, keep it... rolling?” By the end of the session, McKinnon had incorporated the idea into the song. “He said, ‘You’re a genius!’” Kenny laughed.

The fun continued in the studio as Kenny described their songwriting: “When working on the chorus, I was thinking about falafels because I’m always hungry. I used the sounds’ fa-la-fel, fa-la-fel’ as a melody, then we added words.”

WABIF’s release sets the tone for 1VERSE’s tour across the US, Canada, and Europe. Known for their humor online, the group will reveal new sides of their artistry on stage. “Fans can expect to see a different side of us,” Nathan told Men Korea.

LATAM WISHLIST

As their fanbase continues to grow in Latin America, we asked the group to send a message to their fans and share the places they hope to visit in the future. Nathan stated, “Anywhere our 5TARZ are in Latin America, we need to go. Thank you for supporting us throughout these years.”

“If I get the chance, I’d like to visit Argentina. Soccer is really big there, and I think of Argentina as Messi’s home country. I hope I can watch a soccer game there someday,” Aito expressed.

Kenny enjoys unique fruit flavors and is interested in trying anything made with açaí from Brazil. He also mentioned that Seok likes Americanos, noting that Colombia and Latin America are known for their high-quality coffee. Seok agreed, adding that he prefers iced Americanos.

Explore our previous article for an inside look at 1VERSE’s debut. Don’t miss their new single WABIF, now available on all major platforms. Stay connected and follow 1VERSE online for the latest updates.