The year 2026 is being hailed as a rare and historic milestone in the history of K-pop, marked by the long-awaited reunions of groups that define the industry as big Bang, BTS, ESOAND BLACKPINK. Rather than isolated comebacks, these comebacks represent a convergence of true legends artists who have shaped the global rise and cultural identity of K-pop.
After a relatively quiet 2025, dominated by fourth and fifth generation artists and the absence of many major names, 2026 promises a dramatic revival. It is especially noteworthy because veterans groups’ returns are generally staggered to avoid overlap; seeing more top-tier artists return in a similar time frame is almost unprecedented and deeply meaningful to longtime fans.
BTS
Even if everything BTS members completed their military service, 2025 passed with no official group promotions, other than casual live streams with fans. This period, however, was used to prepare for the return of the entire group scheduled for spring 2026.
According to Korean media, BTS will release a new album followed by an eight-month global tour running from May to December. The tour is expected to include 65 shows around the world and attract an estimated audience of four million consolidating their continued dominance on the global stage.
Even during the group’s break, BTS‘s influence remained undeniable. Jin’s Perform the Seokjin Ep Tour ranked seventh, while J-Hope’s Hope on the theater tour placed fourth on Billboard’s top 10 highest-grossing K-pop tours of the year. Also, the 2018 track Anpanman unexpectedly returned to No. 1 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart in December, proving that BTS’ impact remains as powerful as ever.
BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK is also gearing up for a full-group comeback after postponing its originally scheduled winter release to early 2026. The group has not released a full-length studio album since then Born Pink in 2022, making the wait particularly intense.
According to the Korea Times, BLACKPINKThe reunion brings with it a unique advantage: all four members are currently at the peak of their solo careers. This turns the return into something more than just a group outing becomes the convergence of four globally influential artists.
Their performance at Wembley Stadium in London proved this BLACKPINK has transcended the “K-pop girl group” label, standing shoulder to shoulder with international pop groups. Rosé’s Grammy recognition, Jennie’s critical acclaim, Lisa’s major awards, and Jisoo’s success on Billboard have collectively strengthened BLACKPINKthe status of as a group with lasting artistic and commercial power.
ESO
ESO also confirmed his return after a two-year hiatus. The group will release its eighth album, Inversionon January 19, after 2023 Exist.
However, the return will only feature six members: Suho, Chanyeol, DO, Kai, Sehun, and Lay. Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin will be absent due to ongoing legal disputes with SM Entertainment starting in 2024.
Despite that, ESOthe apparition to Melon Music Awards 2025 on December 20th served as a strong signal of their willingness to return to the spotlight. Although not a complete training, the activity of the six members underlines the cohesion and long-term commitment of the group.
big Bang
Among the first groups to officially confirm the group’s activities is big Bangthe iconic second generation boy group. G-Dragon, Taeyang and Daesung will perform together at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California in April 2026. This marks big Bangthe first major group activity after the release of Still life in 2022.
During his Superman concert in Korea in March 2025, G-Dragon hinted at the reunion, stating that big Bang would celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026 with a major label moment of “coming of age”.. Coachella It is expected to serve not only as the stage for their return, but also as an opening signal for a series of global activities commemorating two decades of big Bangthe legacy of.
Sources: TT
