ASTRO’s new unit ZOONIZINI (MJ & JINJIN) will officially debut with their first mini album ‘DICE’ on 13 August 2025.
On the midnight of July 29th, fantagio’s official social media channels released a coming-soon teaser video announcing the debut of ZOONIZINI (MJ & JINJIN). The video dynamically displayed the unit name ‘ZOONI’, ‘ZINI’, the album format ‘1st MINI ALBUM’, the title ‘DICE,’ and the release date ‘2025.08.13’ in striking typography, immediately drawing fans’ attention. On the same day, a scheduler video and images were also unveiled, revealing a lineup of teaser content including four versions of concept photos, the tracklist, highlight medley, performance spoiler, prologue, and music video teasers, building even greater anticipation for their debut.
ZOONIZINI
ZOONIZINI (MJ & JINJIN) is a unit combining the talents of ASTRO’s main vocalist, MJ, and leader/main rapper JINJIN. The name merges their individual identities, and the project aims to present a fresh synergy by blending their distinct musical colors and charms. MJ has showcased his solid vocal skills since releasing his solo album ‘Happy Virus’ in 2021, participating in numerous OSTs and music projects. JINJIN, through his independent music project ‘JIN LAB’, has released high-quality self-produced songs and contributed to the production of many of ASTRO’s albums, solidifying his position as both an artist and producer.
Their capabilities also shine on the musical stage. MJ has appeared in productions such as ‘JAMIE’, ‘Winter Wanderer’, ‘Jack the Ripper’ and ‘Zorro: Actor-Musician’. JINJIN has performed in ‘Winter Wanderer’, the original and revival of ‘Dream High’ and ‘Crash Landing on You’, earning acclaim for his acting skills and stage presence.
Celebrating the group’s 9th anniversary this year, MJ and JINJIN under ASTRO released the special single ‘Twilight’, written and composed by JINJIN, and successfully held The 4th ASTROAD [Stargraphy] concert in Korea and Japan for the first time in three years, proving their strong global popularity. This unit project marks the first official work that consolidates the musical experiences and energy each member has built individually alongside ASTRO activities, drawing anticipation for the new charm and individuality they will present.
DICE
The mini album title ‘DICE’ represents a die, symbolizing the multiple sides of the two members’ musical personalities and their dynamic chemistry. The album will also be released in a physical format, adding to its collectible value. Leading up to their debut, ZOONIZINI (MJ & JINJIN) will release a range of content, from concept photos to performance spoilers and music video teasers, continuing to engage with fans.
ASTRO’s new unit ZOONIZINI(MJ & JINJIN) will release their first mini album DICE on 13 August 2025 at 6PM (KST) through various online music platforms.
UPDATE:
The title track “Some Things Never Change” is an emotional hip-hop track highlighted by simple yet addictive rap and melody. JINJIN took part in both writing and composing the song, infusing it with ZOONIZINI’s unique color and story for added meaning. The chorus lyrics — “Same thoughts so we act the same. 놀 때면 (translated to “When we play”) No time to sleep. 너무 웃어 (translated to “Laugh so hard”) Cannot breathe. Some things never change” — portray their unchanging friendship since their carefree days, evoking a nostalgic mood.
The music video for “Some Things Never Change” delivers upbeat energy through ZOONIZINI’s playful chemistry. Their lively and rhythmic performance in sync with the bouncy beat doubles the fun of watching and listening.
Also included in the first mini album are five other solid tracks: “New world”, which tells the story of ZOONIZINI falling into a mysterious world; “Utopia”, blending funky rhythms with sophisticated disco sounds; “Favorite Memory”, a song about precious memories with friends; “Starlight Voyage”, in the cheerful pop-rock genre; and “Restart”, which conveys the excitement of a new beginning.
Watch the music video for title track, “Some Things Never Change”:
Photo Credits: fantagio
