Seoul: Vernon and The8 of K-pop boy group Seventeen will form a new unit and are preparing to release an album in June, a music industry source said Thursday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, "Vernon and The8 are working on a unit album with the goal of releasing it in June," the source revealed. "Both members are actively participating in production." This new duo marks Seventeen's sixth unit project, following previous collaborations such as BSS composed of DK, Hoshi, and Seungkwan; Jeonghan and Wonwoo; Hoshi and Woozi; S.Coups and Mingyu; and DK and Seungkwan.

Vernon, known for his role as a rapper in Seventeen, has been involved in writing and composing songs since the group's debut. His contributions to the music industry were recognized last year when he joined the Recording Academy, the organization behind the Grammy Awards, as a voting member.

The8, a Chinese member of the group, is recognized for his dance skills and has released several solo records in China, including the EP "Stardust." Vernon and The8 previously collaborated on the album's lead track "Orbit," with Vernon contributing to both the lyrics and composition.

Currently, Seventeen is on its "New_" world tour and is set to hold encore concerts on April 4-5 at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium, located approximately 30 kilometers west of Seoul.