KQ Entertainment’s fifth-generation boy group xikers have returned with their eighth mini album, ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING, released on November 2, 2026.

The six-track mini album is led by title track “DIENAMITE,” alongside the five B-sides “Go,” “Mask off,” “One,” “DUMB,” and “Sanctuary.” Each sees the ten members embracing their signature energetic sound once again, while also extending their storyline.

The release follows their seventh mini album, ROUTE ZERO : The ORA, which was released in May. The ORA represented the beginning of a new series, finally breaking away from xikers’ debut HOUSE OF TRICKY sequence after three years. In The CALLING, xikers continue on from the shock of a new environment and venture into the unknown, rejecting expectations within the narrative in favour of carving out their own path. Title track “DIENAMITE” emphasises that intention most; the song is explosive, featuring fast rap and soaring vocals, and captures the rebellious approach that xikers are known for.

This album is of particular significance due to an increased involvement from the members themselves. While MINJAE, SUMIN and YECHAN appear as lyricists across the credits as usual, “DIENAMITE” and “DUMB” also list leader MINJAE as composer and arranger. In both cases, he is the only composer listed. This is the first time that music produced solely by MINJAE has made it onto a xikers album, and especially as a title track.

An accompanying music video for “DIENAMITE” was released alongside the album, which sees the members unveiling their new powerful choreography and a rock-inspired concept. A showcase celebrating ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING took place in Seoul on comeback day, where that choreography was presented live. It additionally features a cameo from Lee Sung-woo of the Korean punk-rock band No Brain, who contributes a guitar solo. Cameos are becoming increasingly common within K-pop music videos, but xikers’ attempt at leveraging a cameo towards their rock concept and being able to include a leading figure of that genre is impressive.

With their previous mini album achieving over 360,000 sales within its first week of release – their highest figure yet – ROUTE ZERO is set to continue an upward trajectory for the group.

ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING is available to stream and download on global streaming services now.